Geography
At Penruddock, geography helps our children make sense of the world around them — from their own village and the Cumbrian landscape to countries and environments across the globe. We want our young geographers to develop curiosity, fascination, and respect for the planet and its people. Through exploring where places are, why they are as they are, and how they change over time, children gain a deeper understanding of the natural and human processes that shape our world. Our aim is to inspire a lifelong love of geography and a sense of responsibility to care for the Earth.
Learning begins with first-hand experiences in our local area. In the early years, children explore their immediate surroundings through play, stories, and outdoor learning, building early mapping and observation skills. As they move through school, pupils extend their understanding of place — comparing Penruddock with other regions in the UK, Europe, and the wider world. Fieldwork plays a key role in developing enquiry and investigation skills, helping children to ask and answer questions about both physical and human geography. They use maps, atlases, digital tools, and direct observation to collect and interpret geographical information.
Our rural setting provides rich opportunities for outdoor learning. Children study local features such as land use, farming, rivers, and hills, learning how the landscape has influenced how people live and work in this part of Cumbria. They take part in activities such as orienteering, map reading, and environmental projects that encourage care for our local environment. Visits to nearby locations — for example, exploring the Eden Valley, Aira Force, or the shores of Ullswater — help bring geography to life and allow children to see geographical processes first-hand.
Through studying geography, children at Penruddock learn how people interact with their environment, how places are connected, and how choices affect the future of our planet. They develop accurate geographical vocabulary and communication skills, as well as the ability to interpret maps, graphs, and a range of sources. Above all, they gain a sense of wonder about the world, an appreciation of its beauty and diversity, and an understanding of their role in protecting it.
Skill Progression
Geography Gallery
Blencathra Class began their new theme of 'Mr McGregor's Garden' today and the children went off to explore the village. They were looking at mapping, human and physical geography and also geographical vocabulary. The children found lots to discuss when they were exploring. Well done Class 1 ~ A great start!
Walk in the Village
Skiddaw model a rivers journey to the sea with playdough. cocktail sticks and a good understanding of physical features.
