Geography
January 2026 Geography Subject Update
Welcome to your January Teaching Geography update - the first of 2026! This edition brings together everything you need to stay informed and supported in your teaching from the start of the year - from key dates and training opportunities, to getting involved and the latest qualification news and resources.
This update includes:
- Key Dates
- Training for Geography teachers
- Reminder for June 2026: larger NEA sample sizes
- Get your students involved in the RMetS Climate Literacy Survey 2026!
- Ofqual consultation for on-screen assessment
- Buy our new updated editions of Pearson Edexcel A Level Geography textbooks
- Need a quick chat to get support on one of our Geography qualifications?
22 January - Results day for International GCSE (November series)
27 January - International GCSE (November series) examiners' reports on website
21 February - Entry deadline UK GCSE and A level
5 March - Results day for IAL January 2026 series
21 March - Entry deadline for International GCSE and IAL
13 April - IAL Unit 4 WGE04 Pre release uploaded to website
Events for UK and International GCSE and A level Geography are now available to book via our training page.
- A Level Geography: Preparing Students for Synoptic Investigation (Paper 3) 26 January 2026 at 16:00 - 17:30 GMT
- GCSE Geography A: Preparing Students for Geographical Investigations UK Challenges (Paper 3) - 03 February 2026 at 16:00 - 17:30 GMT
- GCSE Geography B: Preparing Students for Making Geographical Decisions (Paper 3) - 10 February 2026 at 16:00 - 17:30 GMT
- GCSE Geography A and B: Supporting higher-attaining students - 28 April 2026 at 16:00-18:00 BST
We will be making recordings of these events available for teachers who can’t attend.
You can find recorded training videos and accompanying materials for all our Exam Insights 2025 Events and Mocks Marking Events
You can find pre-recorded training videos and guidance to support the marking and delivery of A level Geography coursework on our website:
We have the following pre-recorded training events for teachers who are new to teaching our Geography specifications or are considering switching:
From June 2026, we’ll be asking you to submit a slightly larger sample size for moderation in qualifications with coursework/NEA such as A level Geography. This change is designed to make moderation smoother and reduce the need for additional sample requests later in the year.
If you teach year 11 (England, Wales and the Crown Dependencies), 12 (Northern Ireland) or S4 (Scotland) or have contact with those who do, please encourage them to participate in this year's Royal Meteorological Society Climate Literacy Survey to help us get a picture of the evolving climate literacy of school leavers.
Ofqual consultation for on-screen assessment
Ofqual has launched a consultation on proposals for how on-screen assessment should be regulated in GCSEs, AS and A levels in England. Whilst they propose a controlled introduction of on-screen assessment, pen-and-paper will remain central to most exams.
As teachers working directly with students, you understand their needs and the challenges this proposal may present.
Your opinion counts. The consultation closes on 5 March 2026. Please take a look and have your say.
Our brand-new 2nd edition A level Geography textbooks, publishing in early 2026, bring the world into your classroom. Updated with the latest data and global events, these books make geography relevant and exciting. The two textbooks offer complete coverage of the Pearson Edexcel AS and A level Geography specifications with an issues-based approach to contemporary geographical themes.
- Stay ahead with comprehensive coverage of the Pearson Edexcel specification.
- Engage learners through real-world case studies, clear diagrams, and synoptic links.
- Thinking Synoptically pages use interesting material to challenge your knowledge and understanding.
- Support success with fieldwork guidance and activities that develop essential skills for higher achievement.
You can book a quick Teams meeting with me to talk about anything to do with our Geography qualifications and get the support you need. Bookings are currently available for Jan-Mar 2026.
Subject advisor
Jon Wolton
Geography
Subject updates
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The Curriculum and Assessment Review: key insights and next steps for Geography teachers
In early November 2025, the independent Curriculum and Assessment Review (CAR) Final Report and the government’s response were released. This update, for Secondary Geography teachers, highlights the key points from the CAR report and the government’s response, helping you stay informed and prepared for what’s ahead.