Headteacher's pride as school gets top marks for geography provision
It’s the second time the school has achieved the prestigious award
Academy 360 primary school headteacher Helena West said she is incredibly proud of the staff and pupils after the school attained the prestigious Geography Gold Award for the second time.
Issued by the Geographical Association, the Gold Mark recognises primary schools achieving high standards in geography teaching, curriculum development, and leadership.
The report commended the “engaging and relevant topics” studied throughout the school’s curriculum, including investigations into volcanoes, life in the rainforest and studies of human and physical geography. The report noted, these experiences enable pupils to “make meaningful connections between their own lives and those of people living in different parts of the world, developing both knowledge and global awareness”.
Assessors were impressed by the effective use of technology to enhance learning with pupils confidently utilising digital tools, such as digimaps and Google Earth, as well as cross curricula links with other subjects.
Mrs West said: “We are incredibly proud to have achieved the Geography Quality Mark Gold Award for a second time. This recognition reflects the passion and commitment of our staff, the enthusiasm of our pupils and our determination to provide a rich and engaging curriculum.
“Geography helps our children understand their place in the world, appreciate different cultures and environments, and develop the knowledge and skills needed to become informed, responsible citizens. This award is a wonderful celebration of all that has been achieved across our school community."
Courtney McCluskey, Geography Subject Leader, added: "Achieving the Geography Quality Mark Gold Award for a second time is a fantastic accomplishment and one that we are immensely proud of.
“Geography plays a vital role in helping our pupils understand the world they live in, from their local community here in Sunderland to places and environments across the globe.
“This award recognises the dedication of our staff in delivering an engaging, ambitious and knowledge-rich curriculum, as well as the enthusiasm and curiosity our pupils show every day.
“We are particularly proud of the opportunities we provide through fieldwork, Beach School, Forest School and the use of digital technology, all of which bring geography to life and inspires a lifelong interest in the subject."