Society celebrates continued A Level geography popularity

A Level results published this morning by the Joint Council for Qualifications show sustained growth in the number of students sitting the examinations in geography.

38,264 students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland sat A Level geography this year (37,443 in 2022 and 34,960 in 2019), demonstrating geography’s enduring popularity and continued importance as a subject that provides young people with knowledge and skills that are rewarding personally and professionally.

The Society’s Director, Professor Joe Smith, said: “I’d like to extend my congratulations to all the students receiving their geography A Level results today. I am delighted to see that geography’s relevance for today’s changing world continues to be recognised by students, as well as their teachers, parents and carers.

“I would encourage these students to continue their geography studies at undergraduate degree level or sustain their engagement with geographical knowledge in extracurricular activities. Geographers work in a huge range of fields and their skills make them sought-after employees, with above average graduate employment and salary prospects. Geography as an undergraduate subject, or continuing geographical practice in day-to-day life, is enduringly relevant and will help those beginning on their career journey to address the environmental, societal and economic issues we all face.”

The Society offers support and training for geography teachers and provides resources for students, including information about the range of geographical careers available and advice on choosing geography for further studies: www.rgs.org/ChooseGeography 

ENDS

Notes to editors

• For further media enquiries please contact the Society’s Head of Communications, Caitlin Watson, on +44 (0)77 1478 3126 or press@rgs.org  

• The Royal Geographical Society (with the Institute of British Geographers) is the learned society and professional body for geography. Formed in 1830, our Royal Charter of 1859 is 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