Geography A Level 3

Applications Open: - 8th October 2025

Applications Close:- 20th August 2026

How to Apply: - Please contact The Skinners’ School directly to apply. We do not accept applications via KentChoices

Please see here for more information about our Sixth Form and to complete an application form.

A wide variety of useful skills are developed through the study of Geography. They include skills of communication, numeracy and graphics, problem solving, data collecting, analysis and the presentation of statistics, computing, use of instruments, simulations, role play, and social skills. Fieldwork in particular allows the study of the real world by first-hand experience and an annual week of fieldwork in Snowdonia is a key part of the course.

Geography integrates a number of subject areas and can be usefully combined with Science or Arts subjects. It allows the Science specialist to use his/her knowledge in Physical Geography and to develop important literacy skills, and the Arts specialist to develop important numeracy and graphical skills. Geography avoids the problems inherent in over-specialisation.

The OCR Examining Board places greater emphasis on the understanding of processes, the skills of handling, applying and analysing data, the development of judgment and evaluation abilities, than on acquiring factual knowledge.

In Year 12 the emphasis is on looking at physical and human systems within Geography, whilst the focus in Year 13 shifts towards current debates within the subject. Geographical skills and fieldwork skills are taught throughout the course.

Year 12:

Physical Geography

• Topic 1: Earth’s life support systems
• Topic 2: Glaciation

Human Geography

• Topic 1: Changing spaces, Making places
• Topic 2: Migration
• Topic 3: Powers and Borders

Fieldwork: 5 Day fieldtrip to Snowdonia

Year 13:

Physical Geography: Tectonic hazards & hazard management

Human Geography: Global Food supply

Fieldwork: Independent Study

Year 12

Physical Geography - Exam: 1.5 hours. 22% of A-Level

Human Geography - Exam: 1.5 hours. 22% of A-Level

Year 13

Exam: 2.5 hours. 36% of A-Level

Fieldwork: Project: 20% of A-level

Studying Geography opens up a wide range of careers. Whilst geographers can choose to specialise in a particular field of geography, like mapping ("cartography") or researching population growth, there are also opportunities for a wide range of careers. You can find geographers working in the City, to planning, working in the environment, travel and tourism, or in international charities and retail. The transferable knowledge and skills developed by studying geography are actively sought out by employers.