Humanities

HEAD OF FACULTY - MS B STRONG

Geography

head of geography - mr t davidson

OUR GEOgraphy CURRICULUM 

What is Geography?

“The study of geography is about more than just memorising places on a map... in the end, it’s about using that knowledge to help bridge divides and bring people together” – Barack Obama 

The study of geography, at its core, is about understanding the world around us. It is an incredibly broad discipline that allows students to not only consider the physical features of the planet that we call home, but also to explore the interconnectedness of global society. This wider understanding is vital as the world becomes increasingly connected, and it is important that our students understand both the benefits and challenges that this progress can create. 

Geography at orion eden park

The geography curriculum at Eden Park reflects the diversity of our school and is a fantastic subject for building a shared understanding of cultural, religious, linguistic and personal differences. Throughout Year 7 – 13, students are encouraged to challenge traditional narratives and consider global issues through a variety of contexts. Misconceptions are identified and constructively challenged throughout the course allowing students to build a more equitable understanding of the world they inhabit. 

Geography at KS3

Geography at Key Stage 3 serves as an essential foundation for students, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities needed to understand the world around them. The curriculum is designed to explore both human and physical geography, encouraging students to think geographically about their local environment and global issues. By fostering critical thinking, enquiry-based learning, and an appreciation for diverse cultures and environments, geography at KS3 gives students the skills and knowledge necessary to engage with global challenges and contribute to a sustainable future.

ks3 year 7 subject curriculum plan.pdf

ks3 year 8 subject curriculum plan.pdf

ks3 year 9 subject curriculum plan.pdf

Geography at KS4

At Key Stage 4, the curriculum is clearly split into topics that align with the Edexcel GCSE Geography B specification. These topics are sequenced so that students are able to build on their learning in KS3 and smoothly transition to the more rigorous and specific structure of GCSE practice.

ks4 year 10 curriculum plan.pdf

ks4 year 11 curriculum plan.pdf

Geography at KS5

At Orion Eden Park we study the Edexcel specification for A-Level. It is a rich and rigorous course the explore both physical and human geography with a strong emphasis on contemporary global issues and geographical skills. Students undertake fieldwork related to both physical and human geography and complete their own independent investigation. Through studying Geography at A-Level students will develop their critical thinking skills, understanding of global interconnections and become accomplished in data analysis and report writing.

y12 subject curriculum plan geography.pdf

y13 subject curriculum plan geography.pdf

History

Head of History - Ms I Williams

OUR history CURRICULUM 

What is History?

History is the study of past events, societies, cultures, and people. It’s a field that helps us understand how past events, decisions, and movements have shaped the present world and can guide our future. Historians examine written records, artifacts, architecture, and other sources to analyse how civilizations developed and interacted, what people believed and valued, and how societies evolved over time. 

History at orion eden park

We provide a focused and sequenced curriculum that supports students in developing the knowledge and skills they need across KS3-5 to develop more complex interpretations of the past. We aim to develop a curiosity surrounding the past both within and outside of the classroom, often dealing with crucial and important debates that shape the world we live in today. In doing so, we seek to create a safe, positive, and inclusive environment where students can discuss different interpretations and sometimes daunting topics with maturity and have complex discussions around topics of significance. 

history at KS3

• Cause and consequence – analysing why events happen and their short- and long-term impacts.
• Change and continuity – identifying patterns of change and stability over time.
• Similarity and difference – comparing experiences across societies and historical contexts.
• Significance – evaluating the importance and legacy of events, individuals, and ideas.
• Evidence – interrogating primary and secondary sources to construct and challenge interpretations.
• Interpretation – understanding that history is contested and shaped by differing viewpoints.

year 7 subject curriculum plan history.pdf

year 8 subject curriculum plan history.pdf

year 9 subject curriculum plan history.pdf

History at KS4

In Year 10, students study Paper One: Thematic study and historic environment, Medicine in Britain, c1250–present and The British sector of the Western Front, 1914–18: injuries, treatment, and the trenches as well as Paper Three: Modern Depth Study, Weimar and Nazi Germany.  

In Year 11, students expand on the skills learned in Year 10 with the curriculum focusing on an additional two topics. These two topics make up Paper Two: Period study and British depth study, Early Elizabethan England, 1558–88 and Superpower Relations and the Cold War, 1941-91.   

yr10 subject curriculum plan history.pdf

yr10 subject curriculum plan history.pdf

History at kS5

A Level History course is designed to inspire a deep interest in history and provide students with the skills to investigate, interpret, and debate significant historical developments. Through the Edexcel specification, students will explore a breadth of historical periods and themes across British and international contexts. This includes understanding second order concepts such as change and continuity, cause and consequence, and the significance of historical developments over time.

At OEP students will study three papers. These consist of the following papers in Year 12: 

Paper 1: Breadth study with interpretations - Germany and West Germany, 1918-89, (30% of total qualification), 

Paper 2: Depth Study - Spain 1930-78: Republicanism, Francois, and the re-establishment of democracy (20% of total qualification). These papers will be taught alongside each other with different teachers for each paper.  

In Year 13, students complete an additional topic/exam paper: 

Paper 3: Themes in breadth with aspects in depth - Ireland and the Union, c1774-1923. (30% of total qualification). 

A Level students also complete coursework in the last term of Year 12 and the first term of Year 13, worth 20% of the total qualification, which enables them to highlight their knowledge and expertise by researching a historical debate of their choosing and relevant historiography, in order to make a reasoned judgement on a question, which also prepares students for future academic assignments

year 12 history subject curriculum plan.pdf

year 13 history subject curriculum plan.pdf

Religious STUDIES

Head of religious studies - ms a choudhury

OUR religious studies CURRICULUM 

What is religious studies?

Religious Studies is a dynamic field that explores the complexities of religion and its impact on individuals and societies. It fosters critical thinking, cultural understanding, and respect for diversity, preparing students to engage thoughtfully with the world around them.

religious studies at orion eden park

At Orion Eden Park we seek to provide a rich curriculum which supports students with key knowledge of religious beliefs, practices and philosophical ideas and skills they need across KS3-4. To provide religious and cultural literacy, which will allow students to engage fully in British Culture, society, literature, and the arts. To develop a working knowledge and appreciation for the diverse range of religions and cultures that are present both in our school community and beyond, as well as expand and challenge our views with the philosophical ideas of knowledge and the world. To instill an understanding of and respect for the fundamental British values of democracy, tolerance, individual liberty, and rule of law with respect to individuals’ beliefs, cultures, and values. It will enable out students to engage actively and productively in the religious, cultural, civic, and political life of the United Kingdom as thoughtful and reflective citizens.  To ensure statutory government guidance around Religious Education relationships is fully integrated into the curriculum and that staff are equipped to deliver strong and purposeful RS lessons.

religious studies at KS3

RS is sequenced through our 'Big Ideas';

Religious Beliefs 

All religions in the world have a set of beliefs and values that they follow. Most of the religions have some links or similarities between these beliefs, whether that is the beliefs about life after death, God, Holy Books and how to treat the world and people all these beliefs are what are fundamental to religions and people worldwide.   

Religious Practices  

How people practice their religion in everyday life can vary from person to person. Through exploring places of worship, festivals, food and other important aspects of practicing religion, we can understand what it is like being from a certain religion and how personal religion can be for everyone. This is also further explored in our GCSE Units in KS4, where students explore Christian and Muslim practices.   

Morality and Ethics  

What is right and wrong? What do religions say about different ethical and moral dilemmas? Students understand different aspects of morality and ethics such as War and Religion, Crime and Punishment, Human Rights. They will be able to understand what different religions believe about these ideas of morality and ethics, as well as be able to form their own opinions. This is further explored in KS4 in our GCSE Themes Unit, where we explore different themes and what religions say about these key themes.  

year 7 rs subject curriculum plan.pdf

year 8 rs subject curriculum plan.pdf

year 9 rs subject curriculum plan.pdf

religious studies at KS4

At KS4, we follow the AQA Religious Studies syllabus - a curriculum focusing on Islam and Christianity. RS creates an inclusive environment in schools and communities by fostering understanding, respect and tolerance amongst students and the wider community. It promotes understanding of diversity, through exploring diverse cultures, beliefs, beliefs, backgrounds, and lifestyles. It also encourages students to respect differences in people's beliefs and promotes a belonging for everyone regardless of their beliefs. We equip students with the skills to address and challenge discriminatory behaviours and previous biases, it allows students to feel validated, valued and supported in a positive and inclusive atmosphere.   

ks4 y10 subject curriculum plan rs.pdf

ks4 y11 subject curriculum plan rs.pdf

POLITICS

head of politics - ms i williams

OUR politics CURRICULUM 

What is politics?

Politics is the process through which groups of people make collective decisions to govern themselves and shape society. It involves the negotiation, debate, and exercise of power and authority to decide on laws, policies, and actions that impact a community, region, or country.

politics at orion eden park