The geography curriculum provides a broad and progressively challenging study of the local area, the United Kingdom and the wider world, developing pupils’ geographical knowledge, fieldwork skills and understanding of human and physical processes. Children begin in Reception by exploring their school environment, local area, seasons and the seaside before moving on to studies of weather, settlements and life in contrasting locations such as Shanghai. As they progress through Key Stage 1, pupils compare hot and cold regions, investigate coastlines and develop an appreciation of the world's natural and human features. In Key Stage 2, learning becomes increasingly sophisticated through studies of Oxted, the UK, continents, counties and local fieldwork, before examining rivers, population change and European geography. Older pupils deepen their understanding of environmental and global issues through investigations of coastal processes in Swanage, climate and sustainability in Brazil, and studies of Canada, the Alps and volcanoes. Throughout the curriculum, pupils engage in practical experiences including local walks, fieldwork, presentations, residential visits and geographical enquiries, enabling them to develop strong locational knowledge, mapping skills, analytical thinking and an understanding of how people interact with and shape the world around them.