Geography
Geography is an academic subject, yet even among students suffering acute dyslexia; it remains one of the most popular chosen subject in the school at GCSE. The basis of its popularity and ultimate academic success is the differentiation provided in the teaching to the students.
Self motivation, enthusiasm and a sense of humour are the criteria sought by the teacher. These traits combined deliver the academic attainment required for the student to progress, develop and be successful.
Geography is taught in classes not exceeding twelve students. It begins in Year 8 when Shapwick Prep students travel to Shapwick Senior for their lesson. The short journey across the Somerset levels provides an immediate opportunity for the students to observe their local environment. The ethos of the Geography department is to teach practically from the rich resources in the area; rather than the traditional text book approach. Accordingly, teaching in an outdoor location is a regular feature. Field visits include Castle Cary Environmental Centre to witness recycling, re-using and reducing and waste management in a practical, commercial and innovative way. Additional field visits allow the students to witness limestone land forms such as Ebbwr Gorge and a journey through Cheddar Caves.
Year 9 continues the study of Physical. Human and Environmental Geography. The study of map skills is extended into orienteering to practice navigation through permanent courses within Avon and Somerset; whilst a student at Shapwick. The students are encouraged to progress through the Explorer Challenge Award and gain certificates of attainment to accompany their log book. Other topics include a field visit to a super quarry focusing on their commercial use and environmental impact.
Year 10 and 11 follow the Key Stage 4 Edexcel GCSE "A" syllabus. The structure of learning continues, choosing the options that allow study of the syllabus using local resources. For example, a day visit to Weston-super-Mare provides the knowledge and understanding required for Tourism. If a topic is not resourced locally, then as true Geographers they are sought out and visited. A residential to the Lake District in year 11 and Yorkshire Dales in year 10 provide the essential environment to study the syllabus of the exam modules sat at the end of each term. The River Washford on Exmoor provides the data for the GCSE coursework.
Geography has been linked across the curriculum, having previously organised a cross curricular overseas trip to Italy; visiting Rome, Pompei, Vesuvius and Capri.
The strongest link is to Outdoor Pursuits as the Geography teacher is also a National Governing Body multi-activity instructor. Students are encouraged to develop skills in rock climbing, abseiling, mountaineering, orienteering, sailing and caving to travel safely in potentially hazardous environments. This combination can provide opportunities for recreation and employment.
Because of their experiences and qualification gained at Shapwick, students have continued with their interest in Outdoor Pursuits by chosing initially BTEC then Degree level Outdoor Pursuits courses at college and university. Alternatively, their interest remains recreational, joining mountaineering clubs etc as a potential lifetime pastime.