UPPER Wharfedale School was awarded the Secondary Geography Quality Mark (SGQM) for the second time.

The SGQM award, given by the Geographical Association, encourages schools to reflect on their work and strive for the highest quality in their teaching.

Upper Wharfedale went through a rigorous moderation process, and assessors were impressed by the way the Threshfield school embraces new and innovative approaches to teaching geography.

The SGQM, now into its tenth year, recognises student attainment, progress and achievement in geographical knowledge, understanding, values, skills and concepts.

It also sets expectations about the quality of teaching in geography and promotes effective subject leadership and management, helping leaders raise the standards of geography in their schools.

Sally Sumner, associate headteacher of Upper Wharfedale School, said: “Geography continues to be a real strength at UWS with record numbers taking GCSE.

“Results are considerably above national figures thanks to the hard work of subject leader Adam Jackson.

“As a school we need to impress on our students that in the 21st century we live in a diverse and interconnected world.

“As active and responsible citizens we need to consider sustainable living and bigger issues such as climate change.

“In 2016 we undertook our first international field visit to Iceland and we regularly study in the local area.”