We are proud that Bury Grammar School’s Geography Department has been awarded the prestigious Secondary Geography Quality Mark (SGQM) with Centre of Excellence for Fieldwork by the Geographical Association. This recognition highlights the department's commitment to delivering a dynamic and engaging geography curriculum.

Here are the moderator’s findings:

The Moderation Team commended the “high uptake of geography at both GCSE and A Level here at BGS.” Highlighting that the department’s curriculum is designed to be ‘topical’, incorporating a wide range of case studies that build on previous knowledge and make meaningful connections. For example, Year 7 pupils explore the concept of the Global Commons through lessons on overfishing within the ‘Oceans on the Edge’ unit, laying a strong foundation for future studies.

Fieldwork was also acknowledged as a core component of geography at Bury Grammar School and is ‘embedded’ throughout every key stage, with ‘skills practiced regularly’. Examples include sensory mapping of sounds and smells during the Year 7 trip to Castleton, conflict fieldwork in Liverpool for Year 8, and environmental studies at Chester Zoo focusing on endangered species. Innovative fieldwork opportunities continue into the examination years, where pupils undertake river studies, assess the impact of tourism, and participate in local and virtual fieldwork on clone towns. Additionally, the department organises overseas trips to destinations such as Iceland and Italy, ensuring all pupils can access enriching experiences.

The department’s commitment to personal development was also praised, acknowledging our wide range of extracurricular activities. Pupils have opportunities to participate in the WorldWise Quiz, Geo Club, and Geography Café, which provide additional geographical activities throughout the year. Initiatives like Girls into GeoScience and lectures at Manchester Metropolitan University further encourage BGS pupils to take the ‘lead’ in their geographical learning. The department also actively supports participation in competitions run by external organisations such as the Geographical Association (GA), Royal Geographical Society (RGS), and RockWatch.

The department was also commended for their insightful reflections provided throughout the SGQM submission, demonstrating how feedback is being used to drive continual improvement. Pupil voice is also a vital part of the department’s strategy, with surveys conducted at the beginning and end of each topic to review and adapt the delivery of material to meet the diverse needs of all learners.

The Geography Department's efforts have led to ‘higher-than-average results in Paper 3 and NEA at both GCSE and A Level’, showcasing the impact of these enriching pupil experiences. This recognition as a Centre of Excellence for Fieldwork is a testament to the department’s hard work and dedication to their subject.

Congratulations to the entire Geography Department on this well-deserved recognition!