Lead Subject Mentor for Geography: James King, Colchester County High School for Girls
Course Overview
The Geography course at CTTC prepares you to inspire young people to explore and understand the complex physical and human landscapes of our world. You’ll learn how to deliver a curriculum that covers diverse topics including ecosystems, weather patterns, rivers, population dynamics, urbanisation, and sustainable development.
Your training will emphasise practical skills such as map reading, data analysis, fieldwork, and the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). You will be encouraged to develop enquiry-based and experiential learning opportunities that engage pupils in real-world issues like climate change, globalisation, and resource management.
The course also addresses how to teach geography in ways that develop pupils’ critical thinking, problem-solving, and global citizenship, making connections between local, national, and international contexts.
Throughout your placements, you’ll gain valuable hands-on experience in planning and delivering lessons, leading field trips, and using digital tools to support learning.
What You’ll Learn
- Curriculum content from Key Stage 3 through GCSE and A-Level Geography
- Methods for teaching physical geography topics like ecosystems, weather, and rivers
- Approaches to human geography including population, migration, and urban development
- Planning and leading fieldwork and enquiry-based learning
- Using GIS and digital tools to enhance learning
Placement Experience
You’ll complete placements in schools where you can observe and teach geography lessons across age ranges. Fieldwork opportunities may be available, allowing you to develop skills in outdoor learning and geographical enquiry.
Recommended Reading
- Geography Through Enquiry by Keith Fisher
- Teaching Geography 11–18 by Keith Barton and Louise Smith
- AQA GCSE Geography – CGP Revision Guide
Useful Websites
