Exploring Sustainability and Our Changing World

It has been a busy and engaging half-term in Geography, with students exploring environmental and social challenges, considering different perspectives and thinking critically about what sustainability looks like in practice.

Year 9: Development and Sustainability

Year 9 have been exploring global development and the challenges of achieving sustainable development.

Students investigated cobalt mining in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, examining the importance of cobalt in producing batteries for electric vehicles alongside the social and environmental impacts of mining. They then explored possible solutions and considered whether cobalt mining could ever be truly sustainable. This sparked important questions about our own consumption habits and the challenges involved in transitioning to greener technologies.

Tropical Rainforest Ecosystems

Students have also been learning about important ecosystems, exploring biodiversity, the importance of tropical rainforests to local communities and the threats they face, including deforestation, logging and climate change.

They produced some excellent work considering how ecosystems could be managed more sustainably, examining the challenges of balancing environmental protection with the needs of people who depend on the land.

Exploring Sustainable Solutions

Students have been investigating different approaches to tackling environmental challenges in Dar es Salaam. These discussions have particular relevance following the city’s drought last year, as we look ahead to the coming rainy season.

Reflecting on water shortages, one student designed a water tower intended to collect moisture from the air, demonstrating creativity in thinking about possible responses to local environmental challenges.

Across these projects, students have been making connections between people, places and environments, with links to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDGs 6, 8, 12, 13 and 15. Their work highlights the importance of considering practical solutions that support both communities and the environment.

Year 11: Hard Work and Achievement

Year 11 have been working incredibly hard this half-term, with significant progress evident in their most recent assessment. A special congratulations to Alba, Hayaam and Sabrina, who all achieved A grades!

Particular recognition goes to Alba, who has made tremendous progress this half-term. Her dedication in lessons and independent study is beginning to show clearly in her work. Well done, Alba, and congratulations to all three students on their achievements!

Celebrating Independent Learning: Century Tech

A big well done to our top Century Tech students over the past two weeks!

• Year 11: Sabrina spent an impressive 1 hour and 50 minutes on Century Tech, answering 130 questions.
• Year 10: Mathilda spent 38 minutes on Century Tech and achieved 100% on her questions.

Congratulations to both students for their commitment to independent learning and the effort they continue to put into their studies.

Half-Term Homework: Keeping Learning on Track

All Geography students have received printed homework booklets to complete over the half-term break, with detailed instructions also available on Google Classroom.

These activities are designed to help students revisit the topics covered this half-term and practise key knowledge and skills. We encourage all students to complete their homework over the break, particularly those preparing for their iGCSE examinations. Regular practice and revision play an important role in building confidence and preparing for assessments.

Thank you for your continued support. We wish all our students and families a restful and enjoyable half-term break!