GA Annual Conference 2026: Full Schedule

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08:00 BST

Thursday April 9, 2026 08:00 - 18:00 BST

Come and visit the volunteers and Special Interest Groups of the GA in room T221.

Different groups will be available in this room to talk to throughout the day, particularly during break and lunch. If they aren't around you can still take a look and pick up some leaflets and other resources.

- Early Years and Primary Phase Committee
- Secondary Phase Committee
- Post-16 Phase Committee
- Teacher Education Phase Committee
- Assessment and Examinations Special Interest Group
- ICT Special Interest Group
- Independent Schools Special Interest Group
- Physical Geography Special Interest Group
- Fieldwork and Outdoor Learning Special Interest Group
- Welsh Special Interest Group

Thursday April 9, 2026 08:00 - 18:00 BST
T221

09:00 BST

Creating lessons that include everyone

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST

T209

This session will provide practical guidance and reflection on how you can design lessons and schemes of work that include everyone. It will demonstrate how to create lessons that embed students’ personal development, protected characteristics, SMSC and British Values. We will also consider how to ensure geography makes a difference to all students - and includes rather than excludes - through understanding of diversity and inequalities and by tackling ‘wicked’ issues around colonialism, women’s rights, racism, sexuality and gender identity. We will show how good geography lessons can open eyes and minds to how geography has shaped our perspectives on who we are and what we think of others.

Speakers

Darren Perry

School Improvement Leader, Thomas Lord Audley School

Teaching is my third career and the one that has given me the most fulfilment. Currently work as a school improvement leader in a secondary school in Colchester, Essex. Over 14 years experience of teaching Geography, 12 years experience as a Head of Year and 2 years working within... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST
T209

ITE-ECT, Workshop

Key Stage KS3, KS4

09:00 BST

Empowering quiet voices with personality-inclusive geography classrooms

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST

T208

This session will explore how integrating personality inclusion into geography education can make a profound difference to students’ engagement, well-being and future prospects, especially for those who identify as introverts or experience disadvantage in education. As Founder and lead consultant of The Introvert Space™, I will share inclusive teaching strategies that honour quieter voices and foster psychological safety in geography classrooms. Drawing from real-world case studies and practical tools, the session will help educators recognise and nurture introverted learners’ strengths, from deep thinking to reflective curiosity. Aligned with the Conference theme, I will demonstrate how an inclusive geography curriculum enhances cultural capital, builds confidence and creates space for thoughtful dialogue around global challenges like the climate crisis. Attendees will leave with actionable insights to support personality diversity in fieldwork, classroom discussions and assessment.

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST
T208

ITE-ECT, Lecture

Group or Committee Independent Schools Special Interest Group
Key Stage ECT, KS3

09:00 BST

Normalising nature in the classroom and curriculum

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST

T211

An active session focusing on strategies used in ITE at the University of Worcester to normalise nature connection, from origami and storytelling to 'nature natter' cards. The session will explore the rationale for building nature literacy into our classroom spaces and processes, highlighting the five pathways to nature connectedness, as well as inviting participants to try a variety of activities, develop their own 'nature natter' questions and communities of practice, and engage their imaginations in ways to normalise nature for ourselves and our pupils.

Speakers

Elena Lengthorn

Senior Lecturer in Teacher Education, University of Worcester

Elena is the PGCE Geography subject Lead at the University of Worcester. She has taught both geography and science education across the primary and secondary centres on undergraduate and postgraduate courses. She leads the Education for Sustainable Futures and Nature Connectedness... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST
T211

ITE-ECT, Workshop

Key Stage ECT, EYFS, KS1, KS2, KS3, KS4, KS5

09:00 BST

From intent to impact: decolonising KS3 geography

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST

T210

This session will consider how to design a new, decolonised KS3 geography curriculum that centres representation and equity, and why that makes a difference. We will explore using contemporary sources and indigenous voices to widen pupils’ world understanding, then model a KS3 audit with a worked example. Finally, we will deep-dive a biomes topic, exploring how climate zones shape culture without determinism.

Speakers

Laura Cannon

Teacher of Geography, Co-Op Academy Florence MacWilliams

I graduated with a BA Hons in Geography from Lancaster University in 2016 and soon after moved to New York City, where I studied Geography of Art at NYU. After returning to the UK, I spent six years in Events Management, travelling globally to deliver high-profile conferences in Aviation... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST
T210

Leadership, Lecture Plus

Key Stage KS3

09:00 BST

Making a difference through subject leadership

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST

T207

This session will explore six key themes of high-quality subject leadership (vision, team leadership, curriculum leadership, impact, stakeholders and management), illustrating how strategic decision-making can have a positive impact on the students we teach. Participants will have the chance to work through three tasks that help critically reflect on vision, impact and student voice. This session will be suitable for both existing subject leaders and those aspiring to the role.

Speakers

Aidan Hesslewood

Head of Geography, Spalding Grammar School

Geography Teacher and GA Consultant, SGQM Moderator, Editorial Board of Teaching Geography, and chair of the S Lincs GA Branch.

TG SPR 26 Hesslewood pdf

TG AUT 23 HESSLEWOOD2023092610054559570 pdf

Making a difference through subject leadership pptx

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST
T207

Leadership, Lecture Plus

Key Stage KS3, KS4, KS5

09:00 BST

Panel session with global industry leaders: careers shaping the future of our world

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST

SG03/S103

While more students than ever before are choosing to study geography in UK secondary schools and then applying to geography, Earth science and environmental degree programmes, the industries that depend on geography and geoscience graduates are facing a critical recruitment crisis. One key reason is the absence, until now, of a high-profile, national careers intervention to rival those seen in STEM, which has left students unable to visualise how geography connects to real jobs and careers in the modern economy. This panel session is part of an ambitious national geography and geoscience careers intervention led by Time for Geography and convened in collaboration with higher education and industry partners. It brings together global industry leaders working at the forefront of fields including energy transition, environmental sustainability, climate resilience and resource security, who will share insights into the future of geo-related careers and the pivotal role of geography education in meeting national and global skills needs. Participants will leave with renewed confidence to act as careers champions, practical guidance to integrate careers into the curriculum, and direct insights from leaders shaping the future of our world.

Speakers

Dr Rob Parker

Director, Time for Geography

Dr Rob Parker is a geography and geoscience lecturer, educational film producer and director of Time for Geography.
Rob is passionate about the role of geographers and geoscientists in addressing the biggest challenges we face, through interdisciplinary research, discovery and innovation. Through Time for Geography, Rob facilitates a unique community of the world’s leading geographers and org... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST
SG03/S103

Leadership, Panel session

Key Stage KS4, KS5

09:00 BST

Bloxham Sustainability Challenge: Building Future Ready Skills through GIS and Real World Enquiry

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST

T217

The Bloxham Sustainability Challenge (BSC) is an award‑winning education–industry initiative that empowers Sixth Form students to become the sustainability leaders of tomorrow through authentic, place‑based enquiry. Students step into the role of environmental consultants, using ArcGIS, Survey123 and StoryMaps to investigate live development proposals - from solar parks and reservoirs to onshore wind farms. Working directly with professionals and analysing real spatial data, they develop critical thinking, digital literacy and global citizenship, while also completing the Pearson‑accredited EPQ Geospatial Innovation Pathway (worth half an A‑level), giving them recognised credentials and a valuable post‑18 advantage.
During this session delegates will gain hands‑on experience with next year’s Challenge, Planning for Sustainability: Shaping the Future of East West Rail, which positions students as consultants on one of the UK’s most ambitious infrastructure projects and provides a powerful real‑world context for learning. Strategically aligned with national educational and policy priorities, the BSC embeds climate literacy, geospatial capability and systems thinking into Year 12 curriculum and enrichment, while also directly supporting the growing industry demand for geospatial talent and building meaningful pathways into the green economy.

Speakers

Dr Claire Evans

Head of Geography, Bloxham School

I am Head of Geography at Bloxham School and co-creator of the multi-award-winning Bloxham Sustainability Challenge (BSC), a collaborative initiative developed with Dalcour Maclaren and supported by Esri UK. The BSC provides students with meaningful, real-world learning experiences... Read More →

Dr Katie Hall

Katie Hall is Head of Education at Esri UK, building strong partnerships between schools, subject associations, and the wider education community through their use of GIS. Their work focuses on GIS pedagogy, curriculum design and teacher development. Their goal is to make geospatial... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST
T217

Secondary, Lecture Plus

Key Stage KS5

09:00 BST

Your rock-powered smartphone

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST

T205

Your smartphone is packed full of weird and wonderful elements, all of which have to be extracted from the earth before making their way in to your device. Join us for an interactive workshop to find out the story of these rare earth elements, including where and how we source them and the important roles they play in modern technologies.

Speakers

Lynn Daley

GeoBus Education Coordinator, GeoBus, University of St Andrews

GeoBus is a free educational outreach project for schools developed and run by the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of St Andrews and funded by NEO Energy. We provide interactive workshops to support the teaching of Earth and environmental sciences in... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST
T205

Secondary, Workshop

Key Stage KS3

09:00 BST

Main features of thermohaline circulation-oceanic conveyor belt

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST

T216

The density of seawater plays a vital role in determining the structure of the ocean on the vertical scale and driving ocean circulation on the global scale. Density structuring or layering in the ocean has biological, chemical and global climate impacts. It is important in determining the timing and duration of plankton blooms that feed the marine food web and whether a region of the ocean is a carbon source or sink. In this session you will explore how salinity and temperature affect the density of seawater and how density can change with depth, location and season.

Speakers

David Froggatt

Head of Key Stage 4, The Priory CofE School Dorking

Dynamic and dedicated Geography teacher with extensive experience teaching GCSE and A-level students. Skilled in planning and leading educational visits and trips both in the U.K. and internationally, ensuring enriching learning experiences outside the classroom. Proven leadership... Read More →

deep ocean currents pdf

themohaline circulation pdf

009491e07fdf613443ec958e7778041d8b08 pdf

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST
T216

Subject knowledge, Workshop

Key Stage KS5

09:00 BST

The pylon paradox: unpacking conflicting views of our energy futures

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST

T220

If our students are to become geographers who make a difference, they will need to understand the nuances of arguments based on environment values and how these affect policy and public attitudes. This session uses recent contestation concerning proposed new powerlines and associated pylons across East Anglia and other regions as a starting point, to examine how discourse analysis can provide a valuable approach to deep learning. The key concepts discussed can be applied to wind and solar farms, as well as a wider set of environmental discourses. The focus will be on ‘environmental values’ as a discursive resource. It will examine how individuals and groups use language (and imagery) strategically, to authenticate their own account and to denigrate opposing views.

Speakers

Professor Peter Vujakovic

Emeritus Professor, Canterbury Christ Church University

GA Session/talk

Thursday April 9, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 BST
T220

Subject knowledge, Lecture

Key Stage KS4, KS5

10:00 BST

Rex Walford Memorial Lecture: Reimagining geography: creative and critical thinking for a changing world

Thursday April 9, 2026 10:00 - 10:50 BST

SL03

Following the release of the curriculum and assessment review in England, teachers of geography are presented with new opportunities to explore the transformative power of creative and critical thinking in lessons. The challenge for geography teacher educators and mentors is to support novice teachers to empower pupils to think geographically as they navigate an increasingly interconnected and changing world. In this lecture, Vicki will explore how teachers of geography, across all phases, can re-engage with the principles of curriculum making, grounded in geographical enquiry, as they re-imagine the role and significance of critical and creative thinking.

Speakers

Vicki Pountney

Senior lecturer in education, Sheffield Hallam University

Thursday April 9, 2026 10:00 - 10:50 BST
SL03

Headline Lecture, Lecture

Key Stage ECT, All Key Stages

11:00 BST

Morning break

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:00 - 11:30 BST

11:00 BST

First timers' reception

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:00 - 11:30 BST

T220

During the morning break on 9 April, grab a hot drink and join the GA president and meet other first-time conference attendees for an informal chat.

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:00 - 11:30 BST
T220

Fringe event

11:00 BST

Geography at scale: how MAT networks support teachers and learners

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:00 - 11:30 BST

T217

This session provides insight into how multi-academy trust geography networks work to support their school communities. The somewhat-controversial concept of 'aligned autonomy' will be explored in an examination of the opportunities and pitfalls inherent in being part of a large subject network. There will be suggestions for making the most of emerging or developing formal and informal subject networks of your own and time to explore how these can benefit those students who need it the most.

Speakers

Ben Newborn

Geography Subject Adviser, United Learning

I have 17+ years experience in Geography education and my current role is subject adviser and curriculum lead for the largest MAT in the UK, United Learning. I regularly consult for different exam boards and support several schools across England beyond our group.

I'm a member of

... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:00 - 11:30 BST
T217

Leadership, Teacher to Teacher

Key Stage ECT, KS3, KS4, KS5

11:00 BST

Overcoming barriers: geography in a hospital school setting

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:00 - 11:30 BST

T216

This session will explore how geography can be adapted to meet the needs of young people receiving education in a hospital setting, using Manchester Hospital School as a case study. Drawing on real experiences, it will show how geography can offer continuity, connection and empowerment to learners facing medical challenges. The session will demonstrate how geographical thinking and enquiry can be a powerful tool for re-engagement, wellbeing and identity-building - even from a hospital bed. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for ensuring accessible, flexible and inclusive geography teaching designed to meet pupils where they are, both physically and emotionally.

Speakers

Stephanie Crome

Teacher and secondary Geography subject lead, Manchester Hospital School

I am currently the Secondary Geography Subject Lead at Manchester Hospital School, where I have the privilege of delivering geography education to young people facing a wide range of complex barriers to learning. Prior to this role, I spent 17 years teaching in a large mainstream... Read More →

Geography makes a difference at MHS (3) pptx

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:00 - 11:30 BST
T216

Secondary, Teacher to Teacher

Key Stage KS3, KS4

11:00 BST

The Shire Project

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:00 - 11:30 BST

T210

Discover how iNaturalist can transform learning in schools and communities. This seminar explores how geography connects students with real scientists and conservation projects—locally and globally, including the Osa Conservation Centre. Learn how students of all ages can enhance fieldwork skills, deepen environmental understanding, and actively contribute to biodiversity research and conservation. You will leave the session with the project ready to go and all the resources needed to run it.

Empower learning. Inspire action. Make a real-world impact.

Speakers

Harriet Moss

History Teacher, Quinton House School

I am a History and Religious Education teacher at Quinton House School, having studied History at the University of Northampton. My passion for learning and meaningful conversation was reignited during my time at Nationwide Building Society, where I founded the Race Together network—an... Read More →

Jema Kinsman

Head of Humanities, Rushden Academy

I am a Head of Humanities in the Midlands. I graduated with a First Class Honours degree in History from the University of Northampton and have taught History, Geography and Religious Education since I qualified in 2017. I am a lifelong learner and a big fan of reading, representation... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:00 - 11:30 BST
T210

Secondary, Teacher to Teacher

Key Stage ECT, KS3, KS4, KS5

11:30 BST

Using visual research methodologies in schools

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 11:55 BST

T216

In order to be able to make change within spaces we must understand the experiences of the people who use them. In this session we reflect on two projects using visual methods: one exploring sustainability, the other the experiences of non-verbal learners. We bring together an interdisciplinary team of geographers, education, planning and architectural experts and reflect on how visual methodologies with children (5-11 years) and their teachers can help us make a difference. We will reflect on the successes and challenges of using this interdisciplinary and multi-tool mechanism to provide insights that a single disciplinary approach could not achieve. We will share our approach to visual methods in order to examine lived experiences of the school environment (through photography) combined with educational evaluation practices (focus groups and creative collage).

Speakers

Dr Verity Jones

Associate Professor, University of the West of England

Verity is an Associate Professor in Education at the University of the West of England, Bristol. Her long standing research focus has been on routes to sustainable futures (both social and environmental). At present Verity is working in partnership with Global Goals Centre to develop... Read More →

Dr Fay Lewis

Senior Lecturer, University of the West of England

Fay Lewis is a Senior Lectrer at UWE: Bristol. Her research interests lie in primary STEM and sustainability education. Her research draws on a range of creative research methodologies in order to better understand lived experiences.

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 11:55 BST
T216

Primary, Research paper

Key Stage KS1, KS2

11:30 BST

Musical geographies: sense of place and storytelling in the curriculum

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 BST

T211

Music is a dynamic, everyday phenomenon that connects people, places and cultures. It offers a powerful lens through which to understand the world and our place within it. From local rhythms to global genres, music and its associated visuals provide students and teachers with meaningful insights into diverse environments that help shape their worldview. For this collaborative session, Matt will share how an idea to showcase his vinyl collection evolved into a rich, three-week unit on the geography of music for KS3 students. This explores themes such as sense of place, landscape and emotion, and the role of music in shaping our cultural identity, and addresses how music can be both a unifying and divisive force. Alan will share his new World of Music blog, which charts a year-long journey through curriculum resources and collaborative pedagogy around music and its meanings; a playlist of ideas for teaching everyday geographies. You will gain practical ideas, resources and inspiration for incorporating music into your own geography curriculum. This one goes up to 11!

Speakers

Matt Podbury

Curriculum Leader for Geography, International School of Toulouse

Classroom teacher since 2002.
Curriculum Leader for Geography at the International School of Toulouse.
Author of www.geographypods.com and www.ibgeographypods.org
Facilitator and resource creator for the IBO
Online trainer with Richard Allaway at https://www.internationalgeography... Read More →

Alan Parkinson

Head of Geography, King's Ely Prep

Head of Geography, King's Ely Prep and Vice President Education of the Royal Geographical Society

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 BST
T211

Cross Phase, Lecture

Key Stage KS2, KS3

11:30 BST

Curriculum Review ‘evolution not revolution’: implications for a coherent 11-16 curriculum

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 BST

T205

This session outlines key aspects of the Curriculum and Assessment Review and considers the implications these will have when designing a coherent geography curriculum, with progression and assessment at its heart, and designed to make a difference for students in terms of making sense of our complex world. You will have the opportunity to reflect on the implications of the Review on your current 11-16 geography curriculum.

Speakers

David Gardner

Chair of GA AESIG, Consultant to the GA

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 BST
T205

Leadership, Lecture Plus

Group or Committee Assessment and Examinations Special Interest Group
Key Stage KS3, KS4

11:30 BST

GIS for EAL: enhancing understanding and progression

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 BST

T210

This session will explore how geographical information systems (GIS) can support English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners in developing map skills and geographical understanding. Drawing on research, it shares practical strategies, lesson sequences and assessment approaches to embed GIS meaningfully into teaching. The session aims to illustrate the positive difference a GIS-focused approach can generate for EAL, and all, pupils.

Speakers

Thomas Bever

Postgraduate Student, University of Edinburgh

Thomas Bever is a postgraduate student at the University of Edinburgh and has recently completed his Geography PGCE at King's College London. His research is focussed on the use of geographical information syste(GIS) to support students to whom English is and Additional Language (EAL... Read More →

GIS for EAL GA Conf pdf

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 BST
T210

Secondary, Lecture

Key Stage KS3, KS4

11:30 BST

Helping students to question sustainability

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 BST

T207

This workshop will provide classroom-based activities that help students consider the sustainability of different projects, before outlining a structure to support extended writing. It will also focus on how to develop students' ability to 'think like a geographer' so that they can make sense of the complex world around them.

Speakers

Rachel Hawke

Head of Geography, Isca Academy

Head of Geography at Isca Academy and Lead Subject Mentor for Geography at South West Teacher Training

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 BST
T207

Secondary, Lecture Plus

Key Stage KS3, KS4

11:30 BST

How do you KNOW they know? Checking for understanding in the geography classroom.

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 BST

T209

At last year's Conference I spoke about addressing misconceptions in the geography classroom. This year, I’d like to continue this theme by examining how we can discover what misconceptions our students might hold and how we can check they have understood what we have taught them. I’ll delve into practical, evidence-informed strategies for checking understanding, including ‘Do Now’ tasks, use of mini whiteboards and low-stakes formative assessment. Rooted in cognitive science, these approaches aim to make students’ thinking visible and help identify misconceptions early. Pitfalls and mistakes to avoid will also be discussed. Attendees will be invited to share their examples of effective methods.

Speakers

Sarah Larsen

Teacher of Geography, Reigate School

I have been a geography teacher for over twenty years in and around London. I've also carried out various roles within our SCITT, helping the next generation of teachers learn their craft. In addition, I have contributed to various educational books, including Powerful Geography by... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 BST
T209

Secondary, Lecture Plus

Key Stage KS1, KS2, KS3, KS4, KS5, ECT

11:30 BST

Teaching careers in geography

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 BST

T208

This session is based on my chapter 'Teaching careers in geography' from the book What is Geography Teaching, Now?, published by John Catt. Delegates will gain a unique perspective (I am both a professionally qualified and experienced careers guidance adviser and a geography teacher), plus detailed insight into ways to embed up-to-date careers education, information, advice and guidance (CEIAG) into schemes of learning for years 7-11. They will find out more about the role of careers guidance advisers in schools and the increasing use of AI in the fields of career exploration, planning, development and management for young people today. Participants will brainstorm activities and devise their own action points around embedding high-quality CEIAG into their programmes of study and schemes of learning.

Speakers

Rouna Begum Ali

Geography Teacher, Northwood School

Fully professionally qualified and experienced Careers Guidance Adviser and Geography Teacher with over 18 years experience of working with Children and Young People in secondary school, college and community settings within the London Boroughs of Hillingdon, Brent and Ealing. For... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 BST
T208

Secondary, Workshop

Key Stage KS3, KS4, KS5, ECT

11:30 BST

Geographies of illicit finance: capital flows, social harm and spatial contexts

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 BST

T217

Increasing global attention is being paid to the spaces, and spatially-tied institutions, permitting, enabling and accelerating flows of illicit finance. This is, in large part, a result of the increasing attention being given to questions of wealth and inequality. Illicit financial flows are derived from organised and other criminal activity, tax evasion, and money laundering that is spatially concentrated in key cities, in tandem with related geographies of tax and offshore systems. This session will focus on recent research in this area to help develop a spatial imaginary of illicit finance.

Speakers

Professor Rowland Atkinson

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 BST
T217

Subject knowledge, Lecture

Key Stage KS4, KS5

11:30 BST

Global warming, air quality and deprivation

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 BST

SG03/S103

In this session I will look at recent research evaluating the relationship between global warming and air quality, and local and global inequities in causes and impacts, along with new associated classroom resources. For example, a recent study concluded that strong climate mitigation would reduce the inequity in particulate-related mortality between the most- and least-deprived regions of Europe.

Speakers

Sylvia Knight

Head of Education, Royal Meteorological Society

Sylvia Knight is Head of Education at the Royal Meteorological Society and a Visiting Professor at the University of Reading, with over 20 years' experience of supporting the teaching of weather and climate in UK Schools.

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 BST
SG03/S103

Subject knowledge, Lecture

Key Stage KS3, KS4, KS5

11:55 BST

The role of retrieval practice in supporting memory and motivation in GCSE geography

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:55 - 12:20 BST

T216

This research paper session will introduce delegates to research currently being undertaken into the effectiveness of retrieval practice and whether this makes a difference in supporting GCSE geography students’ memory and motivation. It will discuss initial research findings from data collected with year 10 students.

Speakers

Emma Metcalfe

Subject Team Leader - Geography/EdD Student

Thursday April 9, 2026 11:55 - 12:20 BST
T216

Secondary, Research paper

Key Stage KS4

12:20 BST

Lunch break

Thursday April 9, 2026 12:20 - 13:50 BST

12:30 BST

Ensuring high-quality geography is open to all: learning from Routes journal

Thursday April 9, 2026 12:30 - 12:55 BST

T210

In this session, the editorial team from the student journal Routes will share what they’ve learned about supporting high-quality geography through publishing sixth-form and undergraduate geography work, and what lessons we can share to ensure that geography is accessible and makes a difference for all.

Speakers

David Preece

Head of Geography Initial Teacher Education, Teach First

I'm the Head of the Geography initial teacher education team at Teach First, supporting hundreds of geography trainees across England in under-served school communities. This week, I'll also be representing the Editorial Board of Routes Journal, and the Learning to Teach Geography... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 12:30 - 12:55 BST
T210

ITE-ECT, Teacher to Teacher

Key Stage ECT, KS3, KS4, KS5

12:30 BST

Islands of insight: a Caribbean perspective on geography education

Thursday April 9, 2026 12:30 - 12:55 BST

T205

This session will provide an in-depth exploration of geography education within the Caribbean context. It will examine the lived experiences of teachers across the region, from primary through tertiary levels, in delivering geographical content. The session will highlight the evolution of the geography curriculum, while addressing both the benefits and persistent challenges faced by educators. It will conclude with a call to action, urging collective efforts to ensure renewed and strategic efforts and commitment to strengthen the teaching and learning of geography across Caribbean territories, ensuring its continued impact on students, communities and societies.

Speakers

Johneall Williams

Graduate Teacher- Geography and Caribbean Studies, Charlestown Secondary School and Nevis Sixth Form College

Johneall is a purpose driven teacher, from the island of Jamaica but now resides in Nevis, with over 16 years of experience. A wife, mother of two, hobbist and a lover of all things geography, she also has a passion for youth empowerment and youth volunteerism. Johneall sees herself... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 12:30 - 12:55 BST
T205

Secondary, Teacher to Teacher

Key Stage KS3, KS4, KS5

12:30 BST

The SPC’s working lunch: Find your Dinner Peace

Thursday April 9, 2026 12:30 - 13:50 BST

T209

Another in the SPC ‘Geography Headaches’ series. Come and join the GA’s Secondary Phase Committee for a working lunch where we will be tackling the headaches you have raised at Conference about anything to do with teaching and leading Geography in secondary schools. The panel will be sharing their own ideas and we hope to start conversations between delegates to develop future collaboration opportunities and find your Dinner Peace!

We’d love to have as many discussion points as possible for us to get our teeth into, so if you have anything you want to raise, following this link to share a headache in your teaching today [link coming soon]

You can catch the recordings of previous SPC discussions here: https://geography.org.uk/secondary-phase-committee/

Speakers

Ben Newborn

Geography Subject Adviser, United Learning

Thursday April 9, 2026 12:30 - 13:50 BST
T209

Fringe event

14:00 BST

Practical strategies for embedding character education

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:25 BST

T205

The session will begin with a brief introduction to character education and its connection to enhancing geographical understanding, drawing on findings from my MA research in Character Education. This will be followed by a review of how my department has selected and mapped character traits within our geography schemes of work. Attendees will participate in a short group activity to discuss and prioritise character traits and begin matching them to topics in their current schemes of work. Next, there will be an overview of practical classroom strategies for building character through geography. Participants will have the opportunity to trial some strategies in small groups and use stimulus materials to explore how these strategies could be applied in other areas of the geography curriculum. The session will close with attendees sharing some of the ideas they plan to use to embed character in their own teaching.

Speakers

Christine Fox

Head of Geography, Brentwood School

I’ve been teaching Geography for 25 years across the state, private, and international sectors, which has given me a broad perspective on education and how young people learn. I’m currently Head of Geography at Brentwood School, where I enjoy leading a vibrant department and encouraging... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:25 BST
T205

Secondary, Research paper

Key Stage KS3, KS4

14:00 BST

Future Pearson GCSE Geography: Review, Updates and Collaboration

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST

14:00 BST

Geography for life: bringing learning to life through fieldwork

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST

T210

Fieldwork is more than a curriculum requirement - it’s a powerful way to make geography real, relevant, and memorable for students. In this session, we’ll explore how hands-on experiences outside the classroom deepen understanding, spark curiosity, and build essential skills for life.

Sponsors

NST

We design tailor-made geography tours to destinations across the globe – including our Pearson Edexcel endorsed Iceland itinerary – bringing learning to life in the world’s most fascinating locations. And with our geography Subject Experts available to join your group, you’ll... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST
T210

Fieldwork, Lecture

14:00 BST

Moments that make a difference: reframing geography fieldwork

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST

T208

In an age of smartphones, social media and rising anxiety, fieldtrips offer more than curriculum delivery - they're also a chance to pause, connect and grow. This workshop will share practical ways to embed mindfulness, nature connection and reflective practice into busy trips, helping students to recognise the interpersonal and critical thinking skills shaped through geographical experience.

Speakers

Robyn Landy

Education Team Leader, Field Studies Council

Robyn is the Education Team Leader at Field Studies Council, Nettlecombe Court in Somerset. Robyn has 12 years experience of fieldwork delivery across a range of key stages as well as a PGCE in Secondary Geography.

Sponsors

Field Studies Council

Field Studies Council (FSC) is the only environmental education charity dedicated solely to helping people of all ages to experience the environment at first hand.
Fieldwork courses have been developed for those studying A level and GCSE geography for the 2016 specifications. Visit our stand for more information
... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST
T208

Fieldwork, Workshop

Key Stage KS2, KS3, KS4, KS5, ECT

14:00 BST

Digital tools for decolonisation, interdisciplinarity, collaboration & belonging

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST

T211

The 2025 Curriculum Review recognises the need for an innovative, enriching, locally tailored and inclusive curriculum in which ‘all young people can see themselves represented’. Esri UK are working with Project Hidden Sheffield to share a Sheffield-based Y8 scheme of work on decolonising Africa, including activities focusing on ‘should objects looted from Benin be returned’? and a digital story-map of Sheffield’s links with Empire. Join our workshop to explore the tools and approaches developed by Project Hidden Sheffield.

Speakers

Christine Winter

Co-convenor, NA

Co-convenor Sheffield Anti-Racist Education

Sahail Chohan

Sponsors

Esri UK

Developed by Esri, ArcGIS Online is a complete, cloud-based mapping platform that makes teaching with GIS easy. There is no install, you just need a browser to get started. ArcGIS Online works on PCs, Macs and mobile devices. Visit their stand to find out more.

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST
T211

Secondary, Workshop

Key Stage KS3

14:00 BST

Future Pearson GCSE geography: review, updates and collaboration

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST

T216

Join Jon Wolton and Kate Stockings for an interactive session on what the Curriculum and Assessment Review could mean for GCSE Geography assessment. We’ll explore Pearson’s thinking and Kate’s ideas on how assessment can better support deep conceptual understanding - especially around big ideas like climate change and sustainability - without adding content overload.

Speakers

Jon Wolton

Geography Subject Advisor, Pearson

Kate Stockings

Volunteer Ranger, London National Park City

Kate Stockings has been a volunteer ranger for the London National Park City ranger since the start of the ranger scheme, in 2020. Volunteering as a ranger allows her to combine her passion for education and providing opportunities for young people with her love of the outdoors and... Read More →

Sponsors

Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to help people realize the life they imagine through learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST
T216

Secondary, Workshop

Key Stage KS4

14:00 BST

Geography careers that make a difference

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST

T207

This workshop explores how geography education can be a powerful gateway to meaningful careers in environmental resilience, with a focus on flood and coastal risk management (FCRM). Led by the Environment Agency, the session will showcase free, curriculum-aligned resources designed to help teachers introduce green and geospatial careers into geography lessons, making a difference to students’ understanding of the world and their place in it. Participants will explore how geography can inspire action on climate change, support wellbeing through purposeful learning and enhance life chances - especially for disadvantaged students - by connecting classroom content to real-world challenges and career pathways. The session will highlight how geography supports the development of transferable skills and cultural capital, while aligning with the DfE Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy, the EA 2030 vision, and the statutory Gatsby Benchmarks.

Speakers

Becky Watters / Tom Collins

Talent management and skills Senior advisor, Environment Agency

We would like to propose a workshop context to be confirmed. Current thinking - promoting teaching and learning resources and activities to bring environment and water careers into the classromm.

Sponsors

Environment Agency

The Environment Agency will be showcasing its digital products aimed at the education sector, including the ‘RiverCraft’ suite of Minecraft games (available on the Minecraft Education Edition), and new Environment Agency careers products that are being developed with the GA and... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST
T207

Secondary, Workshop

Key Stage KS3, KS4

14:00 BST

Managing political change and challenge in the geography classroom

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST

T209

In an era of rising populism and shifting global narratives, geography education plays a vital role in helping students make sense of the world around them. This session explores how geography not only makes a difference in shaping informed, critical citizens but also how populist geography (the use and misuse of geographical ideas in political discourse), can be unpacked in the classroom. In this session we will: investigate how geographical concepts are used in populist narratives; reflect on the power of geography to challenge misinformation and promote global understanding; explore strategies for embedding critical thinking and media literacy into geography lessons; and share practical approaches to help students engage with contemporary issues through a geographical lens.

Speakers

Dr Simon Oakes

Geography Subject Advocate; Vice-Chair of Examination Board, AQA; International Baccalaureate

We can talk assessment (paper or digital), curricula, concepts, case studies and competences in geographical education. The eve of GCSE/GCE/IB reform feels an exciting time when anything might be possible!

Sponsors

AQA

AQA is the UK’s largest GCSE and A level exam board; we set and mark over half of all GCSEs and A levels taken in the UK every year.

Our UK qualifications are highly valued by employers and universities around the world. They are taught mainly in schools and colleges and include GCSEs, AS and A levels, the Extended Project Qualification, Tech-levels and Technical Awards. We also offer Unit Award Scheme which allows... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST
T209

Secondary, Lecture

Key Stage KS4, KS5

14:00 BST

Geography of the future: what, where and how

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST

T217

Join an interactive conversation about the geography of the future. This workshop is designed for anyone interested in how the Curriculum and Assessment Review outcomes shape what we teach, including climate change and sustainability; where learning comes alive through places and case studies; and how digital approaches, green skills and meaningful fieldwork can bring future focused geography to life.

Speakers

Shelley Monk

OCR

Kerry Sage

OCR

Exhibitors

Cambridge OCR

OCR

At Cambridge OCR, we’re committed to making assessment straightforward, so every student can thrive and achieve the results they deserve.Across our broad range of qualifications, expert support and comprehensive resources, we constantly work to deliver the highest level of consistency... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST
T217

Subject knowledge, Workshop

14:00 BST

Third place theory: making a difference to social progress and urban landscapes

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST

SG03/S103

Third places are social environments that are distinct from home (the first place) and work (the second place). They are gathering spaces, such as cafes, pubs, parks and community centres, which help to create vibrant, connected communities. Join Discover the World Education and the GA as we explore the theory of third place and discuss how this interesting theory - which is evidenced to make a difference to an area in terms of social progress, wellbeing and urban design - can be incorporated into your KS3 schemes of work.

Speakers

Becky Kitchen

Head of Professional Development, Geographical Association

I am currently Head of Professional Development at the GA and passionate about Geography education and am always willing to try new approaches to strengthen and deepen students' understanding of our complex world.

Karen Corfield

Education Development Consultant, Discover the World Education

I am a passionate Geographer and pastoral educator with over 30 years experience in education. I currently work as a consultant for Discover the World Education and deliver high quality accredited CPD both nationally and internationally, and collaborate with the Geographical Association... Read More →

Sponsors

Discover the World Education

As the only tour operator who is a strategic partner of the GA, we provide teachers with educational and enjoyable school trips as well as award-winning classroom resources.
Join us on our stand to discuss your next school trip and pick up free classroom posters
... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 BST
SG03/S103

Subject knowledge, Lecture

Key Stage KS3

14:25 BST

Dialogic questioning to improve female students' attainment in KS3 geography

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:25 - 14:50 BST

T205

In this session, Sandra will share insights from her research as part of an international research group working on addressing the Dream Gap, then attendees will identify areas where these insights can be implemented in their own organisations.

Speakers

Sandra Patterson

A2L Coordinator, Head of Geography, Ulidia Integrated College

Sandra Patterson BA(Hons), PGCE, MEd, FCCT. Sandra chose to work within the Integrated Sector as she strongly believes in both the importance and the ethos of Integrated Education. One of Sandras’ priorities as a Geographer is to promote environmental leadership and community engagement... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 14:25 - 14:50 BST
T205

Secondary, Research paper

Key Stage KS3

15:00 BST

Afternoon break

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:00 - 15:30 BST

15:00 BST

Inspiring students to aim higher with careers in the classroom

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:00 - 15:30 BST

T210

The aim of this session is to help teachers embed meaningful careers links into everyday lessons without adding to workload. The session will focus on quick, effective strategies to boost student drive and ambition that can be seamlessly integrated into existing schemes of work. By connecting subject content to real-world careers, we can help students see the relevance of their learning and raise aspirations.

Speakers

Sophie Weightman

Head of PSHE and Teacher of Geography, Smith's Wood Academy

Head of PSHE, Teacher of Geography and DofE Manager at Smith's Wood Academy

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:00 - 15:30 BST
T210

Secondary, Teacher to Teacher

Key Stage KS3, KS4

15:00 BST

Singapore geography: cultivating Earth stewards and global citizens

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:00 - 15:30 BST

T216

This session highlights how the Singapore geography curriculum nurtures students to be responsible stewards of the Earth and advocates of sustainable development. Through carefully chosen themes and topics, it links local and global contexts, prompting students to reflect on their own values and possible actions. In doing so, it cultivates dispositions for thoughtful, active and future-ready citizens.

Speakers

Joanna Lim

Curriculum Resource Development Officer, Ministry of Education, Singapore

Joanna has been a Geography educator since 2012, inspired by the subject that first opened her eyes to our interconnected world during her own school years. Passionate about Geography's ability to reveal the intricate relationships between nature and humanity, she is driven by a desire... Read More →

Adam Ang

Curriculum Planning Officer, Ministry of Education, Singapore

Adam is a geography educator with nine years of experience who loves exploring the diversity of environments and cultures around the world. Fascinated by the connections between people and places, he encourages students to see the world through a geographical lens, sparking curiosity... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:00 - 15:30 BST
T216

Secondary, Teacher to Teacher

Key Stage KS4

15:00 BST

Supporting weaker students in A level geography

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:00 - 15:30 BST

T205

This session will share my experience of helping students without a GCSE in geography, or who have low grades across the board, to become passionate, skilled geographers. Examples of useful classroom resources will be provided and there will be an opportunity for attendees to discuss their ideas.

Speakers

Simon Holland

Bilborough Sixth Form College

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:00 - 15:30 BST
T205

Secondary, Teacher to Teacher

Key Stage KS5

15:30 BST

Islam and geography: critical pedagogy and understanding Muslim students

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 15:55 BST

T217

This session invites critical geographers to explore Islam and geography through critical pedagogy in deep and meaningful ways with the rich influential and intellectual traditions it encompasses. It will provide an opportunity to learn about Critical Muslim Geographies to better understand Muslim geography students and teachers. Based on the recently published paper 'Critical pedagogical engagement with Muslim geographies' (Sammar, 2024 - https://doi.org/10.1177/20438206241289).

Speakers

Iram Sammar

PhD student and Graduate Teaching Fellow, King's College London

PhD Student King's College London and Director of Salaam Geographia. Education consultant and postgraduate teacher of Social Justice and Geography. Former secondary school teacher of geography.

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 15:55 BST
T217

Secondary, Research paper

Key Stage ECT, KS3, KS4, KS5

15:30 BST

Fieldwork skills that make a difference

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 BST

T207

Developing students' abilities in core skills such as quantitative data processing, qualitative observations and questioning will enhance their fieldwork investigations as well as make a difference to how they approach other geographical subject areas. This session will focus on creative strategies for introducing and enhancing these kinds of skills before, during and after fieldwork experiences.

Speakers

Jill Owens

Cranedale Centre, Cranedale Centre

Geography Field Work Tutor

Chloe Searl

Field studies tutor, The Island Geographer

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 BST
T207

Fieldwork, Workshop

Key Stage KS3, KS4, KS5

15:30 BST

Green spaces matter

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 BST

T205

Discover simple, effective fieldwork ideas to explore the vital role of green space in health, wellbeing and sustainability. This session shares practical strategies to investigate the accessibility, quality and value of green spaces in your local area. You will leave with activities that help students see why access to green space matters and connect geography to their everyday lives.

Speakers

Rhiannon Molyneux

Author, examiner and consultant, Self-employed

I am a geography education specialist with 20 years of classroom experience as a teacher and subject leader. I now work as an author, examiner and consultant, supporting geography teachers and curriuclum development.

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 BST
T205

Fieldwork, Workshop

Key Stage KS3, KS4, KS5

15:30 BST

Novice teacher co-planning: using AI to make a difference

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 BST

T209

Co-planning is an approach to mentoring that encourages teachers to develop lessons collaboratively and benefits both mentors and mentees. This workshop will provide everyone who engages – mentors, ITE tutors, ECTs and trainees – with critical questions to support thinking about the use of AI to support co-planning conversations. Participants will take away strategies they can put into practice.

Speakers

Teacher Education Phase Committee

The purpose of the Teacher Education Phase Committee (TEPC) is to support GA members and others by reviewing the educational landscape as it affects teacher education, looking for patterns, connections, issues and implications and by initiating actions in response. This will invo... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 BST
T209

ITE-ECT, Workshop

Group or Committee Teacher Education Phase Committee
Key Stage ECT, KS1, KS2, KS3, KS4, KS5

15:30 BST

The difference a hierarchy makes: rethinking the power of geographic frameworks

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 BST

T211

This session will explore strategies to use models, hierarchies and categories in a way that challenges their power to marginalise and misrepresent countries, futures and, most importantly, the individuals in your classroom. By understanding the power held in typical geographical systems of classification, we can begin to see where these labels limit and misrepresent the potential for specific contexts and whole regions of the world, while also continuing to misrepresent and exclude the students who may identify with these regions and contexts. This session will share key resources and strategies for the classroom, giving time to consider their use, strengths and limitations. Participants will leave with deeper understanding, new strategies and more confidence to make their geography classrooms a more inclusive space.

Speakers

Daryl Sinclair

Geography Teacher + Humanities Coach, WABE International School

Daryl Sinclair dedicates his work in education to creating inclusive learning environments and transformative education. His work encompasses consulting, mentoring, editing educational journal articles for the Geographical Association, hosting the DEIJ Hot Takes podcast, and collaborating... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 BST
T211

ITE-ECT, Lecture Plus

Key Stage KS3, KS4, KS5, ECT

15:30 BST

Exploring BBC Bitesize 'Planet Planners on Roblox'

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 BST

T216

This hands-on workshop will explore game-based learning in the new resource for KS3 geography 'Planet Planners on Roblox' from BBC Bitesize. The immersive 3D environments allow students to take on the role of decision-makers responding to opportunities and challenges faced by a community or area. There are no right or wrong answers; for example, choosing to invest in green infrastructure might boost public health but require trade-offs in other areas.

Speakers

Helen Young

www.geographygeek.co.uk

Emma Till

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 BST
T216

Secondary, Workshop

Key Stage KS3

15:30 BST

NetZeroED: making a difference to climate change education

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 BST

T210

This lecture will share emerging findings from the NERC-funded project ‘NetZeroED’. This research is generating new empirical data on climate change teaching in schools and then bringing these insights into dialogue with an interdisciplinary range of climate researchers. The vision of this research is to ensure the next generation receives transformational Net Zero education – empowering young people to lead equitable, positive change and make Net Zero a lived reality. Achieving Net Zero is arguably the defining challenge of the 21st century, and geography education holds immense – yet still underutilised – potential to make a difference and drive transformative change. Globally, climate change education is gaining momentum, often driven by students’ and teachers’ demands for transformative change. However, a significant gap remains between high-level curriculum policy commitments and the day-to-day reality in classrooms. As the quantity of climate change education balloons, there is growing urgency to address its quality. This lecture offers an opportunity to gain insight into the relationships between current teaching and climate science, and to reflect on opportunities for geography education to make a difference on a global scale.

Speakers

Dr Steven Puttick

Associate Professor of Teacher Education, University of Oxford

Steve is Associate Professor of Teacher Education. He is a qualified geography teacher and was previously the head of department at a comprehensive secondary school in Oxfordshire, and Head of Programmes at Bishop Grosseteste University, Lincoln. He is PI on the NERC/Agile funded... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 BST
T210

Secondary, Lecture

Key Stage KS3, KS4, KS5

15:30 BST

The geography of health and disease: making a difference in your KS3 curriculum planning

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 BST

T208

This 25-minute lecture, followed by 25 minute structured discussion, will explore the geography of health and disease as a powerful and engaging scheme of work within the KS3 curriculum. It will demonstrate how geographical knowledge can help young people understand health inequalities, global patterns of disease and the socio-environmental factors that shape wellbeing across different spatial scales. The lecture will outline practical ways to teach this topic, drawing on both local and global examples, and attendees will gain ideas for accessible, low-cost fieldwork, such as investigating Healthy Streets in the school’s surrounding area, as well as GIS to support teaching and learning. The session will highlight how studying geography equips students with the knowledge, critical thinking and transferable skills to engage with complex health issues. Links will also be made to post-16 pathways such as medicine and urban planning.

Speakers

Alice Mollison

Head of geography, Eltham College

I have over 20 years' experience teaching Geography, with most of my career spent as a Head of Geography in south London schools.

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 BST
T208

Secondary, Lecture Plus

Key Stage KS3

15:30 BST

Upland fires and air quality in the Peak District

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 BST

SG03/S103

Air pollution from upland vegetation fires, which include wildfires and controlled burns for grouse moor management, is often overlooked. These fire events can go unrecorded and are seen as isolated rural events, however they can have a substantial impact on regional air quality. Using the Peak District National Park as a case study area we examine how air quality monitoring networks, citizen science and remote sensing can help us better understand these impacts.

Speakers

Dr Rebecca Brownlow

Senior Lecturer in Environmental Science, Sheffield Hallam University

Dr Camila Bassi

Thursday April 9, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 BST
SG03/S103

Secondary, Lecture

16:30 BST

Promoting geography teacher agency

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 16:55 BST

T220

In a teaching and learning landscape suffering from increasing prescription and instrumentalism, many teachers have found their professionalism and, ultimately, their agency stifled. Drawing on findings from doctoral research, this lecture will outline how geography teacher agency can be comprehended, discuss which components geography teachers identify as important for shaping their agency, and explore how geography teachers navigate their working environments to allow agency to manifest. It will then consider the implications for agentic teachers’ teaching practices, focusing on what achieving agency means for the geography that is taught to students. A powerful geography education can genuinely make a difference to how the next generation interact with our increasingly uncertain and risky world, and this lecture will advocate for the importance of agency as a transformative tool for both teachers and students and as a means to equip young people with the tools to navigate the challenges of the future.

Speakers

Alex Booth

Assistant Professor in Geography Education, University of Nottingham

Alex works on the Geography PGCE course at the University of Nottingham. Prior to this, Alex spent 9 and a half years working at a comprehensive secondary school firstly as a classroom teacher, then head of department and, latterly, with a whole school remit. Alongside his work, Alex... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 16:55 BST
T220

ITE-ECT, Research paper

Key Stage KS3, KS4

16:30 BST

The National Education Nature Park: mapping a sustainable future

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 BST

T210

Empower your students to contribute to national climate strategies through meaningful geographical enquiry. This workshop introduces how the National Education Nature Park can turn your school grounds into living laboratories, with practical activities you can take straight back to the classroom. You’ll explore curriculum‑ready resources, investigate real‑world environmental challenges using pupil‑friendly scenarios, and see how students’ biodiversity and carbon data feed into national research. We’ll also look at the Nature Park’s GIS and habitat‑mapping tools—setting the scene for the in‑depth session led by the National Education Nature Park team the following day. A perfect complementary workshop for anyone wanting to build confidence before attending Impactful fieldwork: learner‑led changes to school grounds on Friday

Speakers

Kit Marie Rackley

Schools Climate Hub Coordiator, Unversity of East Anglia Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research

(see previous subion)

RACKLEY NENP GAConf26 pptx

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 BST
T210

Cross Phase, Workshop

Key Stage KS1, KS2, KS3, KS4

16:30 BST

Supporting students with SEND in geography: autism focus

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 BST

T208

The session will focus on understanding autism, including the potential opportunities and challenges that autistic people may experience in the geography classroom and in fieldwork. The participation section will provide an opportunity to share best practice, further attendees' knowledge and understanding of autism and outline strategies to apply both in the classroom and in leading a geography department.

Speakers

Amy Cushing

Assistant SENDCO and Geography teacher, Kenwood Academy

I am currently Assistant SENDCO and Teacher of Geography in special education at Kenwood Academy. This is a secondary setting which has a primary focus of communication interaction, however students have a range of SEND in addition to this. Prior to this, I was Head of Geography in... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 BST
T208

ITE-ECT, Lecture Plus

Key Stage ECT, KS3, KS4, KS5

16:30 BST

When worlds collide: maximising curriculum time through cross-curricular enquiries

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 BST

T209

Inspired by sessions from previous Geographical Association (GA) and Historical Association (HA) conferences, Nat and Sally worked together to develop a enquiry-based schemes of work for Y7 that draw together the golden threads of the humanities subjects. Drawing on Anjana Khatwa's lecture (GA Conference 2025), the first looks at the geological processes involved in the formation of Hawaii, the stories told by indigenous peoples about the islands and the impact of colonisation and decolonisation. The second, inspired by Michael Riley's presentation on environmental history at the HA conference, examines the Industrial Revolution and its ongoing impact on our population and environment. This session will provide an opportunity to discuss these schemes of work and how you can work collaboratively with humanities colleagues in your schools.

Speakers

Natalie Allen

Head of Geography, Montpelier High School

Head of Geography

Sally Thorne

Assistant Headteacher - Research and Teacher Development, Montpelier High School

Assistant Headteacher and History Teacher

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 BST
T209

Leadership, Workshop

Key Stage KS2, KS3

16:30 BST

Making a decisive difference: physical geography in National Parks

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 BST

T205

This workshop will provide practical frameworks for helping students understand that physical geography isn't just about processes and landforms - it's about how landscape fundamentally shapes human possibilities and choices in the 21st century. Through comparative analysis of contrasting National Parks participants will explore how different geological foundations, geomorphological legacies and climatic conditions generate distinctly different patterns of contemporary conflicts and determine viable solutions .

Speakers

GA Physical Geography Special Interest Group

Geography & Geoscience Educator/Chairperson PGSIG, GA Physical Geography Special Interest Group (PGSIG)

The role of the Physical Geography SIG (PGSIG) is to enhance and support the teaching and learning of physical geography in primary and secondary schools.
Our aim is to be the ‘trusted voice’ in matters relating to the teaching of physical geography.

How we do this
Advocating the importance of physical geography in the school curriculum; particularly critical thinking through physical geography, its relevance to society (practical application) and its value for intellectual development (curiosity and explanation) and spiritual development (awe, wonder)

... Read More →

Adam Corbridge

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 BST
T205

Secondary, Workshop

Group or Committee Physical Geography Special Interest Group
Key Stage ECT, KS3, KS4, KS5

16:30 BST

Teaching climate change differently

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 BST

T207

Geography and Environmental Studies at the Open University offers resources for teaching climate change differently, in a way that foregrounds often-marginalised voices and considers the consequences of colonialism in climate crisis debates. This workshop will showcase these resources and highlight the diversity of ways of knowing, voices and narratives that can help address the climate crisis. These resources support secondary and further education teachers to develop more sensitive, anti-racist pedagogical approaches in the classroom..

Speakers

Open University

The Open University

The Open University have been world leaders in online and distance education for over 50 years. Geography and Environmental Studies are pleased to showcase our resources for educators and their learners – drawing on teaching and research materials developed in the OU – for use... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 BST
T207

Secondary, Workshop

Key Stage KS4, KS5

16:30 BST

The new Welsh GCSE: making a difference in Wales, lessons to learn for England?

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 BST

T216

With the new 'Qualified for the Future' geography GCSE in Wales nearly at the end of its first year of teaching, what lessons can be learned from its development and inception? This session will consider what difference it has made in Welsh schools and what aspects might be useful to take forward for future GCSE reform in England.

Speakers

Rob Pengelly

GCSE Geography Subject Officer, WJEC Eduqas

I'm the WJEC & Eduqas Subject Officer for GCSE Geography

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 BST
T216

Secondary, Lecture Plus

Key Stage KS4

16:30 BST

Critical pedagogy: learning and teaching about the geographies of Palestine

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 BST

T217

This workshop examines the geographies of Palestine through a critical, decolonial and educational perspective. It considers how thematic discussion points within A level and GCSE curricula can discuss landscapes of conflict, settler colonialism, apartheid and genocide - to bridge knowledge and understanding in scholarly and school discourses. Participants will explore how borders, checkpoints and settlements influence access to land, water and mobility, and how these processes affect children’s lives, education and future opportunities. Teachers will explore how geography is never 'impartial', in terms of who makes maps, how boundaries are drawn (including historically), and how land use changes. The session will model strategies for addressing different perspectives: Palestinian, Israeli and international media responses on land, settlement and resource access to grasp broader curriculum themes of power, justice and human rights.

Speakers

Iram Sammar

PhD student and Graduate Teaching Fellow, King's College London

PhD Student King's College London and Director of Salaam Geographia. Education consultant and postgraduate teacher of Social Justice and Geography. Former secondary school teacher of geography.

Daniel Selwyn

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 BST
T217

Subject knowledge, Workshop

Group or Committee Secondary phase committee
Key Stage KS3, KS4, ECT, KS5

16:30 BST

Everyday geographies: teaching local food security through 'foodscapes'

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 BST

SG03/S103

Food security is a critical component of the geography curriculum. In the UK, the conversation is often dominated by the rise of food banks. This session will argue that this focus, while important, obscures the systemic and geographical nature of food insecurity that affects the 'missing majority' who never use a food bank. Drawing on recent research, we will reframe food insecurity as a 'capability deprivation' - a failure of social and spatial systems. We will use the concept of the 'foodscape' to explore the everyday, local barriers people face, moving beyond simple proximity to consider mobility, time and social stigma. Finally, the talk will introduce the 'food ladders' framework as a more dignified and resilient, place-based approach. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of local food security and practical activities to help GCSE and A level students critically analyse their own community's food systems.

Speakers

Dr Megan Blake

SRLecturer in Human Geography, University of Sheffield

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 BST
SG03/S103

Subject knowledge, Lecture

Key Stage KS4, KS5

16:55 BST

Geography beyond the reality: exam-oriented cramming vs real-time geographical understanding

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:55 - 17:20 BST

T211

This session will critically examine the widening gap between formal GCSE geography preparation and students’ capacity to engage with geography in real-world contexts. Drawing on 15+ years of teaching experience in Pakistan and recent PGCE training in the UK, Syed will explore how performance-focused school cultures often prioritise exam technique over conceptual understanding. Participants will reflect on how this exam-centric approach impacts pupils’ ability to connect geographical knowledge to their lived environments - from local spaces to global systems. Through discussion, classroom examples and comparative insights, the session will encourage teachers, leaders and curriculum developers to reconsider the balance between assessment outcomes and authentic geographical learning.

Speakers

Syed Kazmi

PGCE Trainee, MMU

research paper for conference

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:55 - 17:20 BST
T211

Leadership, Research paper

Key Stage KS3, KS4

16:55 BST

Using reading groups to support teacher research engagement

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:55 - 17:20 BST

T220

This session will explore how regular reading groups can bridge the gap between theory and classroom practice. Drawing on a Master’s-level project based in a geography department, it will highlight how collaborative engagement with research supports teacher development. Participants will gain practical strategies for creating effective, sustainable reading groups that enhance professional growth and pedagogy.

Speakers

Freya Harrison-Brooks

Teacher of Geography, Benton Park School

Teacher of Geography for 6 years - currently working at Benton Park School in Leeds.Recently studied for an MSc in Learning and Teaching at the University of Oxford. Dissertation was focused on using a reading group to support classroom teacher engagement with educational researc... Read More →

Thursday April 9, 2026 16:55 - 17:20 BST
T220

Secondary, Research paper

Key Stage KS3, KS4, KS5

17:30 BST

Presidential lecture: Geography makes a difference

Thursday April 9, 2026 17:30 - 18:30 BST

SL03

Thursday April 9, 2026 17:30 - 18:30 BST
SL03

Headline Lecture

18:30 BST

Celebratory reception

Thursday April 9, 2026 18:30 - 19:00 BST

Showroom Workstation

Mix and mingle in this friendly reception before the TeachMeet at Showroom Workstation and share stories from the first two days of conference! Lochranza Centre CIC will also be providing local cheese, chocolate and whiskey from the Isle of Arran.
Proudly sponsored by Lochranza Centre CIC, Isle of Arran

Thursday April 9, 2026 18:30 - 19:00 BST
Showroom Workstation

Fringe event

19:15 BST

TeachMeet

Thursday April 9, 2026 19:15 - 21:15 BST

Showroom Workstation

Thursday April 9, 2026 19:15 - 21:15 BST
Showroom Workstation

Fringe event