SKE Lead

Michael Cornfoot

What is your current role and experience in teaching?

Currently, I am a GORSE Partnership Director, additionally I am both the 11-16 Geography subject lead across the trust as well as the Geography SCITT Subject Mentor. I have been teaching for almost 19 years and although I have held a number of senior positions across the trust, I have always taught geography.

Why are you passionate about your subject?

Firstly, I love learning about and visiting different places around the world. With the exception of South America and Antarctica, I have visited every continent. I am fascinated in understanding how the physical world interacts with humans and the impact that our existence has on our environment. Ultimately, I am passionate about teaching the next generation about our wonderful planet but also how during a tumultuous period in the world’s history we all have a responsibility to preserve our world by leading much more environmentally sensitive and sustainable lives.

What impact does strong subject knowledge have? 

Geography is such a vast subject so having strong subject knowledge in all facets of geography is challenging. Notwithstanding this, having strong subject knowledge is imperative if we are to bring geography to life in the classroom and out in the field. It is only through confidence in your subject knowledge that you can deliver lessons with passion, sparking a curiosity in learning for the young people we teach.

Modules

Module one – 8 weeks

  • DfE/OFSTED research review and the national curriculum.
  • The principles of secondary geography.
  • The causes of natural hazards.
  • The effects of natural hazards.
  • The natural and human causes of climate change.
  • The effects of climate change.
  • The causes of population growth.
  • The effects of population growth.

Module two – 12 weeks

  • Geographical processes.
  • Geographical landforms.
  • Geographical skills.
  • Fieldwork.

“ I really valued the regular feedback allowing me to know where I could improve and where I was already strong, this helped me develop as a teacher. ”

Delivery and Assessment

The programme is delivered through optional online tutorials and asynchronous study.

Assessments will include mini tasks, evaluative tasks, research and readings. There will also be an opportunity to reflect on the key ideas learnt in each unit of work. Each submission of assessment will receive detailed and clear feedback outlining professional knowledge, strength and areas to develop further over the remainder of the course.

Want to find out more?

Book an information evening or taster day.

These virtual events will take place with our leadership team to give you an opportunity to find out more about the courses we offer, the support you will receive and your journey as a GORSE SCITT trainee.