The recently published Ofsted subject research review into Geography in primary schools emphasised the vital importance of teachers having access to high quality professional development opportunities.  In particular the most critical factor identified in establishing high quality geographical and historical education was that of teachers’ subject knowledge.  The reports also highlighted that initial teacher training courses devote only a very small proportion of time to Geography and only a minority of primary teachers have studied either of the subjects beyond A level.  As a consequence, many primary teachers, and indeed subject leaders, lack the content knowledge and understanding of the distinctiveness of each discipline to improve standards and raise outcomes.

This series will be led by David Weatherly and be delivered via Zoom over four twilights.  It will commence in the second half of the summer term and continue in the academic year 22/23.  

The series will provide subject specific knowledge training in Geography to enable colleagues to:

• Increase their level of knowledge and understanding of the substantive content of Geography at primary level, particularly in regard to the topics and areas of study identified in the programmes of the national curriculum.
• Understand the disciplinary knowledge that underpins and shapes thinking and creates the distinctiveness of Geography as subject disciplines.
• Confident in their comprehension of the second order and substantive concepts that serve as the big organising ideas around which knowledge and understanding in Geography is constructed.
• Gain up to date knowledge of current academic thinking in Geography.

Session 2: Tuesday 27 September 2022, 4.00 – 5.30 pm

Session 3:  Tuesday 8 November 2022, 4.00 – 5.30 pm

Session 4:  Tuesday 31 January 2023, 4.00 – 5.30 pm

The cost is per school – this course can be accessed by the whole staff.