Geography

Handsworth, Migration & Our Geography Curriculum

A Community Shaped by Migration
Handsworth’s story is one of movement, resilience, and rich cultural fusion. Over the decades, it has welcomed people from across the globe, each wave of migration adding vibrant threads to the area’s unique social fabric.

Following the Second World War, members of the Windrush generation arrived from the Caribbean, bringing with them enduring cultural and social contributions that continue to shape the neighbourhood. In the 1950s and 60s, South Asian families—predominantly from Pakistan and India—settled in the area, further diversifying Handsworth’s identity. Today, it is estimated that individuals from over 170 countries have made their home here.

Whether seeking opportunity, refuge, or connection, generations of migrants have transformed Handsworth into a multicultural mosaic. Along Soho Road, you’ll find a blend of languages, foods, shops, and celebrations that embody this diversity. From faith communities—including churches, mosques and temples—to businesses and music, the global imprint of migration defines life in Handsworth.

Our Geography Curriculum: Rooted in Place, Reaching the World

At St. Michael’s CE Primary Academy, we harness the richness of our local environment to foster global citizens. Geography is more than map-reading—it’s an invitation to understand how people shape the world, and how the world shapes us.

From Reception to Year 6, our pupils explore the human and physical features of their surroundings through fieldwork, comparison, and critical inquiry. As their knowledge deepens, so too does their understanding of environmental responsibility, cultural diversity, and change over time.

Our Three Curriculum Drivers

  • Cultural Heritage – Our curriculum proudly reflects the lived experiences of our pupils. Units focus on the geography of Birmingham, South Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean—mirroring the origins of many local families. Migration, identity and community are central themes that enable children to explore their own stories in relation to broader global movements.
  • Excellence – We believe in depth over breadth. Our knowledge-led approach ensures pupils acquire and retain the core knowledge necessary to think like geographers. Topics are revisited and expanded upon, helping learners build a sophisticated and lasting understanding of the world.
  • Faith – Wherever possible, we integrate spiritual reflection into our study of geography. In Year 6, for instance, pupils examine human and physical geography through the lens of biblical scripture, fostering ethical awareness and deeper connections with the world around them.

How We Teach Geography

  • Each year group studies two to three distinct geography units annually, often interwoven with relevant historical content. For instance, while Year 3 examines the physical geography of South Asia, they also explore the historical events that led to the formation of Bangladesh—highlighting the human impact of borders and migration.
  • In the Early Years, children encounter geography through play, stories and exploration. They begin to understand their own environment and learn about the customs and lives of others.
  • In Years 1 to 6, knowledge builds year on year. Pupils use dedicated geography workbooks, with learning broken into manageable chunks that promote deep understanding. Regular retrieval practice ensures that key knowledge is retained and connected to new learning.

Impact: Celebrating Heritage and Challenging Assumptions

In a world where migration is often misunderstood, our geography curriculum offers an honest, respectful, and empowering counter-narrative. Pupils come to understand the critical role migration has played in shaping Handsworth, Birmingham and the wider world. They celebrate the legacy of their own families and gain a strong sense of belonging and identity.

By exploring the past and present of the communities around them, our pupils grow into informed, thoughtful individuals—proud of where they come from and prepared to shape the future.

Geography Curriculum Handbook