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Geography

What is A-Level Geography?

The A-Level Geography programme explores the relationship between people and places, focusing on how human and physical worlds interact.

During the course, you’ll study the impact of human activities on the environment and how environmental changes influence societies.

This programme also enhances a range of transferable skills, including the use of numeracy and statistics for data analysis, as well as graphical and cartographic skills for data presentation and interpretation.

Any other information about the course?

All students must complete compulsory Human and Physical Geography fieldwork days.
- Human geography – local fieldwork based around central Preston – this forms the basis for the NEA Coursework Unit.
- Physical Geography – all students take part in fieldwork at Ainsdale Beach to develop practical geographical investigation skills on the beach and dune features.
We offer an annual study trip to Iceland. This 5-day trip usually takes place in Year 13.
We have developed strong links with the Geography Department at Edgehill University. Each year they run a bespoke taster day for our students and invite us to any special events they are running.

What Will I Study in A-Level Geography?

In the Geography A-Level course, you’ll explore the complex interactions between natural systems and human activities. The course covers a range of topics, helping you understand key environmental processes and global issues.

Key areas of study include:

Water and Carbon Cycles
Coastal Systems and Landscapes
Population and the Environment
All students in the A-Level Geography course are required to complete fieldwork in both Human and Physical Geography. This includes local fieldwork in central Preston, which forms the basis for the NEA Coursework Unit. There is also a practical investigation at Ainsdale Beach to study beach and dune features.

The Geography A-Level course offers a 5-day study trip to Iceland in Year 13. Students also benefit from strong links with Edge Hill University, including an annual taster day and invitations to special events hosted by the university’s Geography Department.

What Next after Completing A-Level Geography?

After completing the A-Level Geography programme, you’ll be well-prepared for a variety of university courses and career paths.

Geography opens doors to degrees in Geography itself, as well as Earth Sciences, Environmental Studies, and Social Sciences. The skills and knowledge are also highly valued in numerous sectors.

Possible pathways include:

Geography, Earth, Environmental, or Social Science degrees
Careers in the civil service, military, or scientific research
Opportunities in travel, tourism, the Green economy, and environmental sectors

What is the Exam Board for A-Level Geography?

The Geography A-Level programme is assessed by the AQA exam board. The qualification is evaluated through a combination of formal exams and coursework.

There are two main written exams: Paper 1 on Physical Geography, and Paper 2 on Human Geography, each contributing 40% to the final grade.

Additionally, students complete an NEA Coursework Unit, which accounts for 20% of the final mark.

Throughout the course, students progress is monitored through five college CAPS (Common Assessment Points) and mid-unit assessments that reflect the format of the final exams.

What are the Entry Requirements for A-Level Geography?

To enrol in the A-Level Geography course, you’ll need at least five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including a grade 6 in Geography (if studied), and a grade 5 in both English Language and Maths.

If you’re interested in combining A-Levels with a BTEC qualification, we offer a Mixed Programme. Even if you’re not on track to achieve five grade 5s, there may still be an opportunity to pursue both A-Levels and a BTEC at the college.

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