Geography
Geography at The Perse Sixth Form explores some of the most important issues facing our world today, from climate change and sustainability to urban development, globalisation and resource management. Bridging the gap between the arts and sciences, A level Geography combines critical thinking with data analysis, helping students understand the complex relationships between people, places and the environment.
A subject for today’s world
Geography is a dynamic and contemporary subject, constantly evolving to reflect the world students are growing up in. Lessons draw on current affairs and real-world case studies, encouraging students to investigate complex global challenges and evaluate different perspectives using evidence.
Students develop both strong essay-writing skills and confidence in collecting, interpreting and analysing data, making Geography an excellent choice for those who enjoy combining scientific enquiry with critical discussion.
Learning beyond the classroom
Fieldwork is central to the Geography curriculum. In Year 12, students take part in a residential field trip to Birmingham and Snowdonia, alongside a day visit to Brick Lane in London, developing the fieldwork and data collection techniques needed for their independent research project.
Beyond lessons, students can join the Geography Debating Club, mentor younger pupils, and make use of the department’s specialist Geography library. Dedicated university preparation sessions support students applying for competitive courses, while regular lectures organised by the Cambridge Geographical Association and the University of Cambridge enable students to engage with current geographical research and academic debate.
University preparation and future pathways
Geography develops highly transferable skills in evaluation, critical analysis, research, fieldwork, data interpretation and evidence-based decision-making. Students gain a deep understanding of the interrelationships between human and physical environments, preparing them to address the sustainability challenges that increasingly influence every sector of society.
One of the subject’s greatest strengths is the breadth of opportunities it opens up. Geography provides excellent preparation for a remarkably wide range of university courses, including Geography, Land Economy, Climate Science, Earth Sciences, Architecture, Politics, International Relations, Economics and Management, Law, Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, reflecting the diversity of skills, knowledge and perspectives developed through the subject.
Recent highlights
Perse geographers consistently secure places to study Geography at Oxford and Cambridge, while many others progress to leading universities across a wide range of disciplines. In 2026, the department celebrated a remarkable achievement when a Perse student attained the highest OCR A Level Geography mark in the country. This followed another national success in the same year, with a Perse pupil achieving the highest OCR A GCSE Geography score in the country. Students also regularly enter national essay competitions, and their work has been published in the respected Routes student geography journal, recognising the high standard of geographical research and writing produced within the department.
Assessment details
At the end of the Upper Sixth, students sit three examinations: Physical Systems, Human Interactions and Geographical Debates. These combine a mixture of resource response questions, short responses and lengthier essay-based questions.
Students submit their non-examined assessment (20% of A level geography) in the Michaelmas term of Upper Sixth, having collected data over the summer.
The examining board is OCR.