The Geography Department at Castlebrook High School fully supports the mission statement of the school, and the specifics outlined below are designed to encourage achievement in all pupils, of whatever gender or ability. Pupils should enjoy Geography and will be exposed to a variety of teaching and learning styles, including fieldwork, in each year group. Pupils should be determined to aim for the highest standards in all that they do. The department seeks to promote Geography as a dynamic and exciting subject. Field trips include visits to Malham & Settle. 

‘Enjoyment, achievement and high expectation for all.’

Key Stage 3

Key Stage 4

At Key Stage 4, for those that have chosen to undertake GCSE Geography at Castlebrook, we study OCR GCSE Geography A (1986). The full specification can be found at www.ocr.org.uk. with sample exam papers at www.ocr.org.uk/pastpapermaterials/

The OCR ‘A’ specification is designed to provide students with a course that develops a sound understanding and knowledge of geographical themes, issues and skills. A ‘people-environment’ theme is adopted throughout the specification highlighting the importance of this interaction. The use of relevant examples and case studies is fundamental in the delivery of the specification detail in order to achieve meaningful understanding of the themes being studied. The case studies and examples are studies at a variety of scales and in differing environments including areas at various stages of economic development.

Teaching and Learning Styles

In Geography we seek to exploit the wider boundaries of teaching and learning. We aim to challenge pupils through interactive whiteboard technology, the delivery of a variety of teaching and learning styles including thinking skills, the use of ICT and the support of wisely chosen textbooks. Against a background of assessment for learning we hope our pupils develop thinking skills and independent learning which will maximize their level of achievement and understanding of the world around them. The Department also has an active membership with the Geographical Association

In 2007 we had 4 pupils invited to Bury Town Hall as winners of a joint competition between Bury Metro and Friends of the Earth. In previous years our pupils have entered national competitions showing their vision of our future world.