Geography
Geography A Level helps you understand the world around you - from changing coastlines and natural hazards to global governance, cities, and population patterns. If you’re curious about the environment, people and places, and how they interact, this course could be a great fit.
At St Brendan’s, lessons are engaging and supportive. You’ll investigate real‑world issues, build strong analytical skills and take part in fieldwork that brings the subject to life.
- Qualification
- A Level
- Exam Board
- AQA
- Duration
- 2 years
Why study Geography at St Brendan’s?
Geography is a highly respected, wide‑ranging subject that bridges the natural and social sciences. You’ll explore global challenges like climate change, urbanisation and sustainability, and learn how people and environments influence each other.
Our specialist teachers make the content accessible and engaging, helping you build strong enquiry, research and decision‑making skills. You’ll also take part in mandatory fieldwork, giving you valuable practical experience.
Entry requirements
- GCSE Maths grade 4 or above
- GCSE English Language grade 4 or above
- GCSE Geography (Grade 4 or above) recommended but not required. If GCSE not taken, GCSE Grade 5 required.
- 5 GCSE’s at grade 4 or above
Course examination breakdown
What else do I need to know?
GCSE Maths grade 4 or above
GCSE English Language grade 4 or above
GCSE Geography (Grade 4 or above) recommended but not required. If GCSE not taken, GCSE Grade 5 required.
5 GCSE’s at grade 4 or above
Year 1
- Physical Geography (AQA – specification content)
- Water & Carbon Cycles — global systems, stores and transfers
- Hazards — tectonic, atmospheric and hydrological hazards
- Human Geography (AQA – specification content)
- Global Systems & Governance — trade, equality, international institutions
- Changing Places — identity, representation, lived experience
Year 2
Physical Options (centre‑selected) (AQA)
May include:
- Hot Desert Systems
- Human Options (centre‑selected) (AQA)
May include:
- Population & the Environment
- Independent Fieldwork Investigation (NEA) (AQA – specification content)
A 3,000–4,000‑word independent investigation
- Based on a student‑chosen question linked to any part of the specification
- Must include primary field data
Skills Developed
You will develop:
- Data interpretation and analysis
- Fieldwork and research skills
- Problem‑solving and decision‑making
- Critical thinking and evaluation
- Understanding of global issues and interconnections
Lessons mix teacher‑led explanations, case studies, practical skills, group work, GIS tools and exam preparation. Fieldwork takes place across physical and human environments, helping you apply classroom learning to real‑world settings.
Throughout the course you’ll complete:
- Practice essays and data‑response questions
- Mock exams
- Skills‑based tasks and fieldwork training
- Feedback focuses on building confidence, understanding and exam technique.
Assessment:
- Paper 1: Physical Geography (2 hr 30 min) – 40% (AQA)
- Paper 2: Human Geography (2 hr 30 min) – 40% (AQA)
- NEA: Geography Fieldwork Investigation – 20% (AQA)
- Access to GIS and digital mapping tools
- Fieldwork equipment
- Extensive case‑study resources
- Online learning platforms and revision materials
Fieldwork trips may involve a small cost. Optional textbooks or enrichment opportunities may incur additional charges.
Geography combines well with:
- Biology
- Environmental Science
- Economics
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Politics
This qualification supports progression into degrees and careers in:
- Geography
- Environmental Sciences
- Urban Planning
- Geology
- International Development
- Sustainability & Conservation
- Geospatial Analysis (GIS)
- Teaching and research
Progression opportunities
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