Big increase in numbers taking geography A Level

The 2015 A Level results, published today by the Joint Council for Qualifications, show 37,195 students sat a geography A Level in England, Wales and NI (33,414 England).

Geography retained its position in the top 10 most popular subject choices at AS level, with 55,801 candidates in England, Wales and NI (50,633 England).

Commenting on the significant increase in geography candidates at A Level, the Director of the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG), Dr Rita Gardner CBE, said:

“The Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) is delighted that geography’s popularity at A Level continues to increase.

“Geography’s sustained, positive growth reflects the hard work of teachers and their students. It has also been underpinned by geography’s position as a facilitating subject and a good gateway to employment. Students are recognising the value of geography as a subject that equips them with both a broad skillset and an understanding of issues that matter in the world today.”

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. For further media enquiries, please contact the RGS-IBG’s Communications and Media Officer, Scott Edwards, at s.edwards@rgs.org or 020 7591 3019.

2. The Royal Geographical Society (with the Institute of British Geographers) is the learned society and professional body for geography. Formed in 1830 for 'the advancement of geographical science', today we deliver this objective through developing, supporting and promoting geographical research, expeditions and fieldwork, education, public engagement, and geography input to policy. We aim to foster an understanding and informed enjoyment of our world. We hold the world's largest private geographical collection and provide public access to it. We have a thriving Fellowship and membership and offer the professional accreditation 'Chartered Geographer’ www.rgs.org