At Morton Academy, Earth Science brings together the study of Geography and Geology to help students understand our planet, its systems, and its people. Students explore both the natural world and human environments, developing curiosity, critical thinking, and practical skills through a rich and engaging curriculum. Fieldwork, enquiry, and hands-on activities are central to our approach, allowing students to investigate the world around them and see their learning in action.

Geography
Through Geography, students become informed global citizens with an appreciation of how people, places, and environments are connected. They develop knowledge of diverse regions, resources, and cultures, alongside a deep understanding of Earth’s physical and human processes. At KS3, students follow a varied curriculum designed to prepare them for success at GCSE Geography (AQA specification).

Geology
Through Geology, students investigate the Earth’s structure, natural resources, and geological history. Topics include rocks and minerals, plate tectonics, Earth processes such as erosion and weathering, fossils, and geological time periods. The course combines practical classroom activities with fieldwork opportunities, enabling students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts (Educas/WJEC specification).

Aim:
To create inquisitive, confident, and enthusiastic Earth scientists — geographers and geologists.

Our intent is to:

• Develop informed global citizens with a deep understanding of the planet and its systems.
• Equip students with the knowledge and skills to explore and challenge ideas.
• Encourage students to contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

To achieve this goal, our curriculum is regularly reviewed to ensure it remains relevant, diverse, and intellectually challenging. While we align with the National Curriculum and UL scheme of work, lessons are tailored to Morton Academy students, making them unique to our context. Geography is taught to spark curiosity and exploration, encouraging students to analyse information objectively and think critically about the world around them. Lessons remain current and dynamic, evolving in response to new research and global events. Both KS3 and KS4 schemes of work are carefully sequenced, ensuring clear progression and meaningful learning for every student throughout their Academy journey.

The development of cultural capital is at the heart of Earth Science at Morton Academy. Through Geography and Geology, students gain essential knowledge to become informed global citizens with a deep appreciation of the world around them.

In Geography, students explore social, economic, political, and environmental issues at local, national, and global scales, giving them the tools to understand and engage with contemporary debates. In Geology, they develop a deeper awareness of the Earth’s structure, history, and processes, as well as how humans interact with natural resources and geological events.

Together, these subjects broaden students’ horizons, foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and help them appreciate both cultural heritage and the natural environment. By engaging with the best geographical and geological thinking, students build a broad and diverse base of knowledge — an essential foundation for success in life and future learning.

Careers education is an important part of the Earth Science curriculum at Morton Academy.

In Geography, students explore the world of work from Key Stage 3, beginning with the topic World of Work, which examines employment structures in the UK and how they are changing. At Key Stage 4, students study broader economic ideas such as globalisation and multi-national organisations, as well as their role in shaping the labour market. Throughout, we emphasise key employability skills including analysis, presentation of information and data, and decision-making. We also introduce students to careers directly linked to geography, supported by our links with organisations such as The Environment Agency, Cumbria County Council, and Sellafield.

In Geology, students develop knowledge and skills highly valued across a wide range of professions. Careers linked to geology include geoscience, mining, energy, engineering, and environmental consultancy. The subject also provides strong foundations for roles in sustainability, hazard management, and research. Students gain transferable skills such as problem-solving, practical investigation, and critical thinking, all of which support their future education and employment pathways.

Together, Geography and Geology equip students with both the awareness of global challenges and the skills to make a positive contribution to the world of work.

Mrs Jenna Latham - Subject leader, Teacher of Geography & Geology

Mr Andrew Richardson - Teacher of Geography

Mrs Rachel Robinson - Teacher of Geography