Geography at ETSS Wicklow is taught through enquiry, real-world investigation, and strong academic foundations. Fieldwork is central to our philosophy - helping students connect classroom learning with the places and processes that shape the world.
Leaving Certificate Geography helps students understand the relationships between people, place, and environment, while developing strong academic skills that support further study and life beyond school.
Teaching and learning is grounded in active methodologies, enquiry, and strong academic expectations — with a consistent focus on building independent learners.
Students are supported to think like geographers — questioning evidence, forming arguments, and applying learning to unfamiliar contexts. Clear routines, targeted feedback, and high-quality resources help students build confidence over the two-year programme.
Fieldwork is central to our department identity. Students learn by observing, measuring, and analysing geographical processes in real environments.
Regular fieldwork close to the school helps students build confidence with geographical methods and data collection. This includes urban fieldwork in Wicklow town, coastal studies, and nearby fluvial investigations.
These experiences support the Geographical Investigation and strengthen independent research skills.
Students are guided through the full investigation process — from forming a research question, to gathering primary data, to analysis and evaluation. We place a strong emphasis on accuracy, reflection, and presenting findings clearly.
Geography at ETSS Wicklow extends beyond the textbook through live projects and partnerships that connect students with real data and real-world research.
As part of an ongoing department project, students are recording historic rainfall figures in support of a wider study being undertaken alongside Met Éireann. This work strengthens students’ data-handling skills and highlights the role of long-term records in understanding climate patterns and change.
ETSS Wicklow Climate Action Sustainable Development and Geography Department Update
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Our department is involved in professional practice and research beyond the classroom, helping ensure that teaching is current, reflective, and informed by best practice.
Note: The UDL book is forthcoming and has not yet been published.
Assessment supports learning and examination success through clear expectations, regular feedback, and structured exam preparation.
Strong written responses, accurate terminology, and the ability to interpret and evaluate information across different contexts.
A balance of formative feedback and exam-focused tasks helps students improve steadily and build confidence over time.
Frequent practice with exam-style questions, supported by modelling, success criteria, and targeted guidance.
If you have questions about the programme, fieldwork opportunities, competitions, or how Geography supports future pathways, please get in touch with the school.
