BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 X-WR-CALNAME:gaannualconference2026 X-WR-CALDESC:Event Calendar METHOD:PUBLISH CALSCALE:GREGORIAN PRODID:-//Sched.com GA Annual Conference 2026//EN X-WR-TIMEZONE:UTC BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260408T110000Z DTEND:20260408T113000Z SUMMARY:Conference starts DESCRIPTION: CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:e8f7594b1d4559cbe8888b50e894aca5 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/e8f7594b1d4559cbe8888b50e894aca5 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260408T113000Z DTEND:20260408T143000Z SUMMARY:Kelham Island: growth\, decline and intoxicating reimagination DESCRIPTION:This tour explores Sheffield’s industrial past and post-industrial future through the lens of alcohol in the ‘regenerated’ district of Kelham Island. Sometimes celebrated as a sympathetic restoration alive with independent breweries and bars\, yet other times viewed contentiously\, this tour will visit popular\, overlooked and newly opened places throughout the neighbourhood\, showcasing the unique relationship between alcohol and Sheffield’s urban development.  \;\n\nStart and end point\nMeet at the Don Brewery signage on Green Lane/Penistone Road junction (dared.bills.scans) near to the Shalesmoor/Kelham Island tram stop. The tour will also finish at this point\, though participants may wish to leave earlier along the way to sample Kelham Island’s food and drink hotspots.\n\nLength of the tour\nThe tour will last for approximately 2-3 hours. There will be opportunities to stop for a ‘swift half’ or other drinks and toilet breaks. Kelham Island has numerous outlets if participants want to eat after.\n\nAccessibility\nKelham Island is a flat part of Sheffield and very accessible. Some parts of the route have cobbled surfaces but these are easy to navigate around. The nearest tram stop\, Shalesmoor\, is on the same tram line as Sheffield railway station and the Sheffield College where the Conference is being held. CATEGORIES:FIELDWORK LOCATION:TL02\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:822677319ef36f513f2ecf3f8b40be22 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/822677319ef36f513f2ecf3f8b40be22 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260408T120000Z DTEND:20260408T140000Z SUMMARY:Making a difference in the field: interesting urban geography fieldwork DESCRIPTION:This field visit will explore ways of making human geography fieldwork more interesting by using non-traditional methods. Using Sheffield city centre as an example\, we will trial field methods that help investigate current ideas around how urban spaces should be used and developed. These will focus on exploring urban design\, green space and art.\n\nPlease note:\n- The field visit starts and ends at Sheffield College: ///doctor.panic.edit\n- Transport is not required. It is a 20-minute walk to the furthest destination with stops along the way.\n- The trip should take around two hours. There are no scheduled breaks but participants could get refreshments during tasks.\n- There are no known accessibility issues on the route. CATEGORIES:FIELDWORK LOCATION:TL02\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:7e40c08381b55e6e60622ee51a5ae3f8 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/7e40c08381b55e6e60622ee51a5ae3f8 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260408T120000Z DTEND:20260408T150000Z SUMMARY:Maybe we could think outside? Fieldwork for ages 3 to 11 DESCRIPTION:This field trip will model good practice in fieldwork\, demonstrating the potential of any locality for stimulating geographical investigations in the Early Years and primary phases. We will use the surroundings to promote thinking outdoors and to develop participants' awareness of how quickly you can start to see geography. What are the issues we encounter\, consider and develop a deeper appreciation of? \;\n \; CATEGORIES:FIELDWORK LOCATION:TL02\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:ce7e77a8b3a085202a089c7c527dc695 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/ce7e77a8b3a085202a089c7c527dc695 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260408T123000Z DTEND:20260408T143000Z SUMMARY:Fieldwork ideas that make a difference DESCRIPTION:This practical fieldwork session will demonstrate ideas for issues-based fieldwork enquiries that can be done in almost any area local to your school or college. It will showcase a variety of data collection techniques that ensure fieldwork has a strong sense of purpose and outcomes and is an experience that leaves your students engaged\, empowered and mindful of the complexity of real-world decision-making.\n\nWe will meet outside the reception entrance to the College at w3w///universally.office.quest. The session will involve some walking on slopes which are ocassionally steep. Please be assured that the pace will be suitable for everyone. Halfway through the session there is an opportunity to return to the College should anyone wish to\, but the whole session is a circular route to and from the main College building lasting around 2 hours. If you have one\, a clipboard\, or something to lean on\, may be useful. CATEGORIES:FIELDWORK LOCATION:TL02\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:5952f1b6c4f16899d94729f65b9411ab URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/5952f1b6c4f16899d94729f65b9411ab END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260408T130000Z DTEND:20260408T150000Z SUMMARY:Sheffield history tour: how water shaped the city DESCRIPTION:This tour takes in some of Sheffield's key historical sights\, giving participants a sense of the progression from market town to industrial powerhouse to post-industrial city. The tour leader is a social scientist of water whose interest in the contemporary management of water has led her to a ‘skilled amateur’ knowledge of Sheffield history.\n\nStart point: liner.short.stared (outside the City Hall)\nEnd point: Hush.tennis.fonts (at the Sheffield Tap)\n\nPlease note: There are steps and hills on this route. While most of the route has gentle gradients\, the climb to the cholera monument is steep. Participants can opt out of this section if they prefer and proceed straight to the Sheffield Tap. CATEGORIES:FIELDWORK LOCATION:TL02\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:0b6f9f9aeacb271006e1adac4ed99812 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/0b6f9f9aeacb271006e1adac4ed99812 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260408T130000Z DTEND:20260408T150000Z SUMMARY:First aid course DESCRIPTION:Led by Paula Richardson this first aid course lasts 2 hours and acts as a refresher for some and offers new training for others: it is particularly helpful for those planning fieldwork and off site visits. It is offered free to attendees at the GA conference and a certificate will be available for all participants.\nTopics will include: dealing with an incident\, severe bleeding\, choking\, recovery position\, carrying out CPR and the use of a defibrillator. There will also be time to answer questions on concerns you may have such as asthma\, anaphylaxis and seizures.\nThe course is fully practical offering the chance to revisit skills or learn new ones in a supportive environment. \;\n\n CATEGORIES:FRINGE EVENT LOCATION:T221\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:db6c5d8e1fe34980f259a44c3cf70ee1 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/db6c5d8e1fe34980f259a44c3cf70ee1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260408T140000Z DTEND:20260408T150000Z SUMMARY:GA roundtable and member Q&A DESCRIPTION: CATEGORIES:FRINGE EVENT LOCATION:SL03\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:1f36697630fd1caedb668b01414f1108 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/1f36697630fd1caedb668b01414f1108 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260408T153000Z DTEND:20260408T161500Z SUMMARY:Awards ceremony DESCRIPTION: CATEGORIES:FRINGE EVENT LOCATION:SL03\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:a1bdcb63c33d9469099899e907d6160a URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/a1bdcb63c33d9469099899e907d6160a END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260408T163000Z DTEND:20260408T173000Z SUMMARY:Public Lecture: Embracing equity in education DESCRIPTION:Amid growing societal divides\, the equity approach strives to make schools genuinely inclusive\, focusing on removing obstacles to learning and acknowledging the biases and barriers we create in schools. It encourages us to look at children through the strengths they bring not the deficits they face. This includes replacing unhelpful labels such as ‘disadvantaged pupils’\, and nurturing mutually respectful relationships with parents. Equity best bets offer teachers practical strategies to level the playing field in education. CATEGORIES:HEADLINE LECTURE LOCATION:SL03\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:231bc6da742a0b06f601e3bb49d4f83d URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/231bc6da742a0b06f601e3bb49d4f83d END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260408T180000Z DTEND:20260408T200000Z SUMMARY:Conference buffet and quiz DESCRIPTION:Book for this event on the GA website through our conference pages. Tickets are on a first-come-first-served basis with payment in advance. CATEGORIES:FRINGE EVENT LOCATION:Showroom Workstation\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:f0e64d4667b7d54f41efae3887da1354 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/f0e64d4667b7d54f41efae3887da1354 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T070000Z DTEND:20260409T170000Z SUMMARY:Phase Committees and SIGs DESCRIPTION:Come and visit the volunteers and Special Interest Groups of the GA in room T221.\n\nDifferent 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.\n\n- Early Years and Primary Phase Committee\n- Secondary Phase Committee\n- Post-16 Phase Committee\n- \;Teacher Education Phase Committee\n- \;Assessment and Examinations Special Interest Group\n- \;ICT Special Interest Group\n- \;Independent Schools Special Interest Group\n- \;Physical Geography Special Interest Group\n- \;Fieldwork and Outdoor Learning Special Interest Group\n- \;Welsh Special Interest Group\n\n CATEGORIES: LOCATION:T221\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:bdf9cf8ff063878969e89b3314689dd6 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/bdf9cf8ff063878969e89b3314689dd6 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T080000Z DTEND:20260409T085000Z SUMMARY:Creating lessons that include everyone DESCRIPTION: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. \; CATEGORIES:ITE-ECT LOCATION:T209\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:bf5af1af6a85efe94082b74a0af28c59 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/bf5af1af6a85efe94082b74a0af28c59 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T080000Z DTEND:20260409T085000Z SUMMARY:Empowering quiet voices with personality-inclusive geography classrooms DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:ITE-ECT LOCATION:T208\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:72840e8adcbe4e92fad728688c3bfdd0 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/72840e8adcbe4e92fad728688c3bfdd0 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T080000Z DTEND:20260409T085000Z SUMMARY:Normalising nature in the classroom and curriculum DESCRIPTION: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. \; CATEGORIES:ITE-ECT LOCATION:T211\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:1d7b97e13fc35b85fb0159ba766014b6 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/1d7b97e13fc35b85fb0159ba766014b6 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T080000Z DTEND:20260409T085000Z SUMMARY:From intent to impact: decolonising KS3 geography DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:LEADERSHIP LOCATION:T210\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:4a8a24297c333ec2865aeab8b0a8f6fb URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/4a8a24297c333ec2865aeab8b0a8f6fb END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T080000Z DTEND:20260409T085000Z SUMMARY:Making a difference through subject leadership DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:LEADERSHIP LOCATION:T207\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:8ab9f5e5ebefacba94ffcb77ce9c964f URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/8ab9f5e5ebefacba94ffcb77ce9c964f END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T080000Z DTEND:20260409T085000Z SUMMARY:Panel session with global industry leaders: careers shaping the future of our world DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:LEADERSHIP LOCATION:SG03/S103\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:c8feab629b0aa02ae072fcfa9a4c8891 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/c8feab629b0aa02ae072fcfa9a4c8891 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T080000Z DTEND:20260409T085000Z SUMMARY:Bloxham Sustainability Challenge: Building Future Ready Skills through GIS and Real World Enquiry DESCRIPTION: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.\nDuring 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. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T217\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:153739b20c476adbccdbb8dbced6bbd6 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/153739b20c476adbccdbb8dbced6bbd6 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T080000Z DTEND:20260409T085000Z SUMMARY:Your rock-powered smartphone DESCRIPTION: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. \; CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T205\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:d15332be90ad164a408aec2b17d91d95 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/d15332be90ad164a408aec2b17d91d95 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T080000Z DTEND:20260409T085000Z SUMMARY:Main features of thermohaline circulation-oceanic conveyor belt DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SUBJECT KNOWLEDGE LOCATION:T216\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:e22524a36c7882daa64ac21d0fa328b2 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/e22524a36c7882daa64ac21d0fa328b2 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T080000Z DTEND:20260409T085000Z SUMMARY:The pylon paradox: unpacking conflicting views of our energy futures DESCRIPTION: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. \; CATEGORIES:SUBJECT KNOWLEDGE LOCATION:T220\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:3dce30d4c9d47f76e80ba444d2078cec URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/3dce30d4c9d47f76e80ba444d2078cec END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T090000Z DTEND:20260409T095000Z SUMMARY:Rex Walford Memorial Lecture: Reimagining geography: creative and critical thinking for a changing world DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:HEADLINE LECTURE LOCATION:SL03\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:696c56e40a6191a37fc81e45b72866cc URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/696c56e40a6191a37fc81e45b72866cc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T100000Z DTEND:20260409T103000Z SUMMARY:Morning break DESCRIPTION: CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:d5340dd5a936011ca96803b9d89de3f6 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/d5340dd5a936011ca96803b9d89de3f6 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T100000Z DTEND:20260409T103000Z SUMMARY:First timers' reception DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:FRINGE EVENT LOCATION:T220\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:7c97e11e5a27e030e8969c6eb23cf0b0 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/7c97e11e5a27e030e8969c6eb23cf0b0 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T100000Z DTEND:20260409T103000Z SUMMARY:Geography at scale: how MAT networks support teachers and learners DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:LEADERSHIP LOCATION:T217\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:f2092b8d6c66b07807861c35aef37850 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/f2092b8d6c66b07807861c35aef37850 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T100000Z DTEND:20260409T103000Z SUMMARY:Overcoming barriers: geography in a hospital school setting DESCRIPTION: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.\n CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T216\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:151b2dff99b59065ce2c255afe3adbe0 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/151b2dff99b59065ce2c255afe3adbe0 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T100000Z DTEND:20260409T103000Z SUMMARY:The Shire Project DESCRIPTION: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.\n\nEmpower learning. Inspire action. Make a real-world impact. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T210\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:dcf07278238b891a730fcd47acb513e8 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/dcf07278238b891a730fcd47acb513e8 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T103000Z DTEND:20260409T112000Z SUMMARY:Musical geographies: sense of place and storytelling in the curriculum DESCRIPTION: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! CATEGORIES:CROSS PHASE LOCATION:T211\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:7aa1ad6383d157420eefe01d06713e2b URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/7aa1ad6383d157420eefe01d06713e2b END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T103000Z DTEND:20260409T112000Z SUMMARY:Curriculum Review ‘evolution not revolution’: implications for a coherent 11-16 curriculum DESCRIPTION: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. \; CATEGORIES:LEADERSHIP LOCATION:T205\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:1cc4787feda074ab323144a3bd9d26ab URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/1cc4787feda074ab323144a3bd9d26ab END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T103000Z DTEND:20260409T105500Z SUMMARY:Using visual research methodologies in schools DESCRIPTION: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). CATEGORIES:PRIMARY LOCATION:T216\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:283dd225fdbe5c856fff854e853d5c94 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/283dd225fdbe5c856fff854e853d5c94 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T103000Z DTEND:20260409T112000Z SUMMARY:GIS for EAL: enhancing understanding and progression DESCRIPTION: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. \; CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T210\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:27086d926c6d8bd9adc68f5e0a710dea URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/27086d926c6d8bd9adc68f5e0a710dea END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T103000Z DTEND:20260409T112000Z SUMMARY:Helping students to question sustainability DESCRIPTION: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. \; CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T207\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:90d22f6d82c34f075af92bbf1c251c2a URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/90d22f6d82c34f075af92bbf1c251c2a END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T103000Z DTEND:20260409T112000Z SUMMARY:How do you KNOW they know? Checking for understanding in the geography classroom. DESCRIPTION: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. \; CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T209\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:be1ae059d09218d9b6ba9da55d0daa1b URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/be1ae059d09218d9b6ba9da55d0daa1b END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T103000Z DTEND:20260409T112000Z SUMMARY:Teaching careers in geography DESCRIPTION: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.  \; CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T208\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:7dde70f23a4c3ee426ae97cb14a0dc5b URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/7dde70f23a4c3ee426ae97cb14a0dc5b END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T103000Z DTEND:20260409T112000Z SUMMARY:Geographies of illicit finance: capital flows\, social harm and spatial contexts DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SUBJECT KNOWLEDGE LOCATION:T217\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:042a810fdf78d5e4da4debec99b49b51 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/042a810fdf78d5e4da4debec99b49b51 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T103000Z DTEND:20260409T112000Z SUMMARY:Global warming\, air quality and deprivation DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SUBJECT KNOWLEDGE LOCATION:SG03/S103\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:2e563619432edda47027c1c5ec583014 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/2e563619432edda47027c1c5ec583014 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T105500Z DTEND:20260409T112000Z SUMMARY:The role of retrieval practice in supporting memory and motivation in GCSE geography DESCRIPTION: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. \; CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T216\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:6d4b38bb95b8695efa59d091fad48f65 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/6d4b38bb95b8695efa59d091fad48f65 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T112000Z DTEND:20260409T125000Z SUMMARY:Lunch break DESCRIPTION: CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:5664a6d8b3bccf682a984bb405cd8b16 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/5664a6d8b3bccf682a984bb405cd8b16 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T113000Z DTEND:20260409T125000Z SUMMARY:The SPC’s working lunch: Find your Dinner Peace DESCRIPTION: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!\n\nWe’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]\n\nYou can catch the recordings of previous SPC discussions here: https://geography.org.uk/secondary-phase-committee/ CATEGORIES:FRINGE EVENT LOCATION:T209\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:fe05a67826165a0fea65cd90d1deab72 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/fe05a67826165a0fea65cd90d1deab72 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T113000Z DTEND:20260409T115500Z SUMMARY:Ensuring high-quality geography is open to all: learning from Routes journal DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:ITE-ECT LOCATION:T210\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:8ecb825f7c1875da3b5966ae7d1c7cbe URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/8ecb825f7c1875da3b5966ae7d1c7cbe END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T113000Z DTEND:20260409T115500Z SUMMARY:Islands of insight: a Caribbean perspective on geography education DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T205\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:ec1f2160b9e7383998aeed4447b3d0d3 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/ec1f2160b9e7383998aeed4447b3d0d3 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T130000Z DTEND:20260409T135000Z SUMMARY:Future Pearson GCSE Geography: Review\, Updates and Collaboration DESCRIPTION: CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:389e4a0a5e44195d7b1aa653779741c0 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/389e4a0a5e44195d7b1aa653779741c0 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T130000Z DTEND:20260409T135000Z SUMMARY:Geography for life: bringing learning to life through fieldwork DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:FIELDWORK LOCATION:T210\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:792f27ccc6a3847786fce376e6d7c3be URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/792f27ccc6a3847786fce376e6d7c3be END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T130000Z DTEND:20260409T135000Z SUMMARY:Moments that make a difference: reframing geography fieldwork DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:FIELDWORK LOCATION:T208\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:b87e8e13ba8e119d50b178fb5f36d576 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/b87e8e13ba8e119d50b178fb5f36d576 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T130000Z DTEND:20260409T135000Z SUMMARY:Digital tools for decolonisation\, interdisciplinarity\, collaboration & belonging DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T211\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:ac353581588be113167b1f424234c441 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/ac353581588be113167b1f424234c441 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T130000Z DTEND:20260409T135000Z SUMMARY:Future Pearson GCSE geography: review\, updates and collaboration DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T216\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:69fcff3f444e89e505bbdae2923008d1 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/69fcff3f444e89e505bbdae2923008d1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T130000Z DTEND:20260409T135000Z SUMMARY:Geography careers that make a difference DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T207\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:afd52d388e19ff5c3c8ce0d28d5481c7 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/afd52d388e19ff5c3c8ce0d28d5481c7 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T130000Z DTEND:20260409T135000Z SUMMARY:Managing political change and challenge in the geography classroom DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T209\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:11d0a3d2fb9314a940f70c06ae9d3b7f URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/11d0a3d2fb9314a940f70c06ae9d3b7f END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T130000Z DTEND:20260409T132500Z SUMMARY:Practical strategies for embedding character education DESCRIPTION: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.\n\n CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T205\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:db4b3fd5dfe5ede83bd68adff4ea9234 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/db4b3fd5dfe5ede83bd68adff4ea9234 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T130000Z DTEND:20260409T135000Z SUMMARY:Geography of the future: what\, where and how DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SUBJECT KNOWLEDGE LOCATION:T217\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:adc617baeec8c0b0e7510b1d74a2d1c0 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/adc617baeec8c0b0e7510b1d74a2d1c0 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T130000Z DTEND:20260409T135000Z SUMMARY:Third place theory: making a difference to social progress and urban landscapes DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SUBJECT KNOWLEDGE LOCATION:SG03/S103\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:868b1e49a61cd0e751a7bd6ab0e9bbe2 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/868b1e49a61cd0e751a7bd6ab0e9bbe2 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T132500Z DTEND:20260409T135000Z SUMMARY:Dialogic questioning to improve female students' attainment in KS3 geography DESCRIPTION: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. \; CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T205\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:32f803c9727e37509a7b24619a89d857 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/32f803c9727e37509a7b24619a89d857 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T140000Z DTEND:20260409T143000Z SUMMARY:Afternoon break DESCRIPTION: CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:fcdf27d383c0921f0a0456fce6628ccb URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/fcdf27d383c0921f0a0456fce6628ccb END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T140000Z DTEND:20260409T143000Z SUMMARY:Inspiring students to aim higher with careers in the classroom DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T210\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:1ea64c9e2fb97164d87f8e23997ef252 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/1ea64c9e2fb97164d87f8e23997ef252 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T140000Z DTEND:20260409T143000Z SUMMARY:Singapore geography: cultivating Earth stewards and global citizens DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T216\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:742433d243faeb72feca964dbc54fcae URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/742433d243faeb72feca964dbc54fcae END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T140000Z DTEND:20260409T143000Z SUMMARY:Supporting weaker students in A level geography DESCRIPTION: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.  \; CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T205\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:328fb9a5f60294916692d69a4af316a8 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/328fb9a5f60294916692d69a4af316a8 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T143000Z DTEND:20260409T152000Z SUMMARY:Fieldwork skills that make a difference DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:FIELDWORK LOCATION:T207\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:74bffcdc5249be951cb66980f43f0684 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/74bffcdc5249be951cb66980f43f0684 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T143000Z DTEND:20260409T152000Z SUMMARY:Green spaces matter DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:FIELDWORK LOCATION:T205\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:051aa67be6581fee1d9853df82d0c450 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/051aa67be6581fee1d9853df82d0c450 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T143000Z DTEND:20260409T152000Z SUMMARY:Novice teacher co-planning: using AI to make a difference DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:ITE-ECT LOCATION:T209\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:a2d5329b1c1eada24d9f8717319ce49a URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/a2d5329b1c1eada24d9f8717319ce49a END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T143000Z DTEND:20260409T152000Z SUMMARY:The difference a hierarchy makes: rethinking the power of geographic frameworks DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:ITE-ECT LOCATION:T211\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:c0fe88a9ee865affe033855d0b4177bb URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/c0fe88a9ee865affe033855d0b4177bb END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T143000Z DTEND:20260409T152000Z SUMMARY:Exploring BBC Bitesize 'Planet Planners on Roblox' DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T216\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:37176d6ed276d0df249b0da7358db521 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/37176d6ed276d0df249b0da7358db521 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T143000Z DTEND:20260409T145500Z SUMMARY:Islam and geography: critical pedagogy and understanding Muslim students DESCRIPTION: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). CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T217\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:a4a1ea63ee05c5a008471355882ad889 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/a4a1ea63ee05c5a008471355882ad889 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T143000Z DTEND:20260409T152000Z SUMMARY:NetZeroED: making a difference to climate change education DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T210\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:aaf5143aa08026ddfd0f9a292db2b97a URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/aaf5143aa08026ddfd0f9a292db2b97a END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T143000Z DTEND:20260409T152000Z SUMMARY:The geography of health and disease: making a difference in your KS3 curriculum planning DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T208\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:88533b2dcbd0714a4f702680e431a4ed URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/88533b2dcbd0714a4f702680e431a4ed END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T143000Z DTEND:20260409T152000Z SUMMARY:Upland fires and air quality in the Peak District DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:SG03/S103\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:7e23dd8af0c082475cf505c531a73120 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/7e23dd8af0c082475cf505c531a73120 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T153000Z DTEND:20260409T162000Z SUMMARY:The National Education Nature Park: mapping a sustainable future DESCRIPTION: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 CATEGORIES:CROSS PHASE LOCATION:T210\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:4a6655058986d5f037df6d1d198de13d URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/4a6655058986d5f037df6d1d198de13d END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T153000Z DTEND:20260409T155500Z SUMMARY:Promoting geography teacher agency DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:ITE-ECT LOCATION:T220\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:951724c7b363c400a4185c217022d557 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/951724c7b363c400a4185c217022d557 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T153000Z DTEND:20260409T162000Z SUMMARY:Supporting students with SEND in geography: autism focus DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:ITE-ECT LOCATION:T208\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:ae9b890e1764db0b522f71214f39564d URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/ae9b890e1764db0b522f71214f39564d END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T153000Z DTEND:20260409T162000Z SUMMARY:When worlds collide: maximising curriculum time through cross-curricular enquiries DESCRIPTION: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. \; CATEGORIES:LEADERSHIP LOCATION:T209\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:f852fe0595710e18325f7b7e0785ebdc URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/f852fe0595710e18325f7b7e0785ebdc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T153000Z DTEND:20260409T162000Z SUMMARY:Making a decisive difference: physical geography in National Parks DESCRIPTION: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 . CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T205\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:9030a3e23bca8ac973ebc10716cf4ec4 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/9030a3e23bca8ac973ebc10716cf4ec4 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T153000Z DTEND:20260409T162000Z SUMMARY:Teaching climate change differently DESCRIPTION: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.. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T207\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:85c74ae2e6fa42cc02a828703f7ceb29 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/85c74ae2e6fa42cc02a828703f7ceb29 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T153000Z DTEND:20260409T162000Z SUMMARY:The new Welsh GCSE: making a difference in Wales\, lessons to learn for England? DESCRIPTION: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. \; CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T216\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:7c66b91a54ff1c9b817a1b6b04fce99f URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/7c66b91a54ff1c9b817a1b6b04fce99f END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T153000Z DTEND:20260409T162000Z SUMMARY:Critical pedagogy: learning and teaching about the geographies of Palestine DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SUBJECT KNOWLEDGE LOCATION:T217\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:5bebc52654d94dfbbe519c85e6c1898c URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/5bebc52654d94dfbbe519c85e6c1898c END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T153000Z DTEND:20260409T162000Z SUMMARY:Everyday geographies: teaching local food security through 'foodscapes' DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SUBJECT KNOWLEDGE LOCATION:SG03/S103\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:c90faee0c0cccc5d270c678e92ee5b3e URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/c90faee0c0cccc5d270c678e92ee5b3e END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T155500Z DTEND:20260409T162000Z SUMMARY:Geography beyond the reality: exam-oriented cramming vs real-time geographical understanding DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:LEADERSHIP LOCATION:T211\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:afe841d3918b4b754e4e8478241e6d1e URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/afe841d3918b4b754e4e8478241e6d1e END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T155500Z DTEND:20260409T162000Z SUMMARY:Using reading groups to support teacher research engagement DESCRIPTION: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. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T220\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:018e938d96c88b4539dc6369b040577c URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/018e938d96c88b4539dc6369b040577c END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T163000Z DTEND:20260409T173000Z SUMMARY:Presidential lecture: Geography makes a difference DESCRIPTION: CATEGORIES:HEADLINE LECTURE LOCATION:SL03\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:3b5a67e8736cf6122d4a7a95883bcaa9 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/3b5a67e8736cf6122d4a7a95883bcaa9 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T173000Z DTEND:20260409T180000Z SUMMARY:Celebratory reception DESCRIPTION: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\n CATEGORIES:FRINGE EVENT LOCATION:Showroom Workstation\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:ca6e379034a8757c5e67321d84034637 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/ca6e379034a8757c5e67321d84034637 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260409T181500Z DTEND:20260409T201500Z SUMMARY:TeachMeet DESCRIPTION: CATEGORIES:FRINGE EVENT LOCATION:Showroom Workstation\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:fa140e97b34860977b1e9c42e9aab57a URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/fa140e97b34860977b1e9c42e9aab57a END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T070000Z DTEND:20260410T143000Z SUMMARY:Volunteers and SIGs DESCRIPTION:Come and visit the volunteers and Special Interest Groups of the GA in room T221.\n\nDifferent 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.\n\n- Early Years and Primary Phase Committee\n- Secondary Phase Committee\n- Post-16 Phase Committee\n- \;Teacher Education Phase Committee\n- \;Assessment and Examinations Special Interest Group\n- \;ICT Special Interest Group\n- \;Independent Schools Special Interest Group\n- \;Physical Geography Special Interest Group\n- \;Fieldwork and Outdoor Learning Special Interest Group\n- \;Welsh Special Interest Group\n\n CATEGORIES: LOCATION:T221\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:93a9c180c71dd741997772680063c4ed URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/93a9c180c71dd741997772680063c4ed END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T080000Z DTEND:20260410T085000Z SUMMARY:Are we nearly there yet? Pioneering approaches to full GIS integration DESCRIPTION:Alistair and Brendan will explore three pioneering approaches which will make a significant difference to the full integration of GIS in schools:\n- The first knowledge-rich statutory curriculum approach to GIS: Curriculum references to GIS can be high in aspiration but low in detail. How can we scaffold application to bring real impact to such aspiration?\n- The first GIS integration within a fully-sequenced curriculum plan and lessons by Oak National Academy.\n- The first GIS app for schools created with the help of agentic AI. CATEGORIES:CROSS PHASE LOCATION:SG03/S103\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:336055904a028643c5eceba7da1a639a URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/336055904a028643c5eceba7da1a639a END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T080000Z DTEND:20260410T085000Z SUMMARY:Bringing in the 'wow' factor: using digital maps DESCRIPTION:In a digital world\, students engage more with digital maps than paper ones yet often fail to make the link to geography and how the geography matters. This session will explore ways to help students engage in meaningful ways with a range of digital map formats (from phone maps to Google and more advanced GIS)\, and discuss how we can bring the 'wow' factor to maps to support student engagement. It will consider links to careers\, as well as barriers to engagement and strategies to overcome these. CATEGORIES:CROSS PHASE LOCATION:T208\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:fc585b143a23d041aa1773d840974986 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/fc585b143a23d041aa1773d840974986 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T080000Z DTEND:20260410T085000Z SUMMARY:Revisiting the geographies of difference DESCRIPTION:In 2012 I chose the Geographies of Difference as the theme for my presidential year. In this talk I will revisit my presidential lecture and invite conversation around two questions: How have things changed since then? How might the Geographies of Difference contribute to geography making a difference? CATEGORIES:CROSS PHASE LOCATION:T220\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:5d53fdd32522c2775024a3a091f8e705 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/5d53fdd32522c2775024a3a091f8e705 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T080000Z DTEND:20260410T085000Z SUMMARY:The land of giants: geography that towers above the ordinary DESCRIPTION:This interactive workshop steps into worlds of geographical giants - colossal mountains\, great rivers\, vast cities and global challenges - as powerful lenses for enquiry. With creative\, practical activities and ready-to-use resources\, participants will discover playful ways to help learners think big\, notice connections and find fascination in towering tales. We will explore how geography makes a difference\, inspiring awe\, curiosity and critical thinking. CATEGORIES:CROSS PHASE LOCATION:T209\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:29bd34e63b46ec19d1ef66d10beb6ad1 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/29bd34e63b46ec19d1ef66d10beb6ad1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T080000Z DTEND:20260410T085000Z SUMMARY:Impactful fieldwork: learner-led changes to school grounds DESCRIPTION:The National Education Nature Park empowers young people to improve school sites for people and wildlife\, through geographically informed decision-making. Learners collect data for the Nature Park Map (an ArcGIS tool)\, guiding site improvements and contributing to groundbreaking research with the Natural History Museum. Discover how the programme builds core geographical skills and drives real change\, and discuss context-specific implementation. CATEGORIES:FIELDWORK LOCATION:T211\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:5ca4dfd4cebfe6e6f265aa3acc1b4de9 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/5ca4dfd4cebfe6e6f265aa3acc1b4de9 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T080000Z DTEND:20260410T085000Z SUMMARY:Citizen geographer: from page to classroom DESCRIPTION:Have you ever seen a great idea in Primary Geography but aren't sure how to implement it in your school? This session will talk through how Simon put one such idea into practice in his school\, complete with advice on what to do - and what not to do! There will be time to gather inspiration and plan how you might implement ideas in your own setting. This session is ideal for new subject leaders\, curriculum leads or geography enthusiasts! CATEGORIES:PRIMARY LOCATION:T210\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:02296e5a846deeaaba2e8689c2b262e2 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/02296e5a846deeaaba2e8689c2b262e2 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T080000Z DTEND:20260410T085000Z SUMMARY:Designing a powerful primary geography curriculum DESCRIPTION:This session will look closely at the primary geography curriculum and explore how to select content and implement a well-sequenced\, coherent curriculum for long-term learning. It will also consider progression and include \;opportunities for reflecting on what a pupil’s geography experience looks like as they journey from their early years through primary education. Importantly\, we will consider geography's role in developing a child’s identity. Geography is not just about maps and locations\; it's about connecting children to their world\, fostering a sense of belonging and developing agency to impact the world around them. Geography can make a difference for all children\, and in this session we will think about how we can be agents of this change.  \; \; CATEGORIES:PRIMARY LOCATION:T217\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:1d73aa6e947e2ae62343a81852ba5fa4 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/1d73aa6e947e2ae62343a81852ba5fa4 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T080000Z DTEND:20260410T085000Z SUMMARY:How is geography the glue for sustainability education? DESCRIPTION:Geography binds children's understanding of our complex\, interconnected world. This workshop will explore how primary educators can embed climate\, nature and sustainability into geography teaching using the free Ministry of Eco Education framework. Participants will engage in hands-on activities\, learn practical strategies for transformative sustainability education and leave with the confidence to amplify education for sustainability in their own teaching contexts. CATEGORIES:PRIMARY LOCATION:T205\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:1122d7a00c8c098de6b2c1077d9ff708 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/1122d7a00c8c098de6b2c1077d9ff708 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T080000Z DTEND:20260410T085000Z SUMMARY:'Don't you teach science\, Miss?': a non-specialist's view on enriching the curriculum DESCRIPTION:This session aims to reveal how the worlds of science and geography are linked and how you might exploit this in the classroom. Through three mini-workshops attendees will: reflect on where science and geography overlap and how we can help pupils make links between the two\; consider differences\, such as subject-specific vocabulary\, but also opportunities\, for example to deepen skills such as data handling and interpreting graphs\; share ideas from both subjects to help deepen understanding and engage pupils in their learning. I am one of the increasing numbers of non-specialists teaching geography and hope that this session helps participants understand not only what geographers can do to support non-specialists in their department\, but also what geographers and scientists can learn from each other to bring about a greater appreciation for both subjects. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T207\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:a22a59c57182d25c822910b45b8f86e1 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/a22a59c57182d25c822910b45b8f86e1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T080000Z DTEND:20260410T085000Z SUMMARY:Character curriculum In geography DESCRIPTION:This session will delve into practical\, impactful ways to weave character education directly into the geography curriculum in order to make a difference in students' academic learning and to help shape their personal values and ethical understanding. We'll be sharing how our department has successfully brought core character values and school principles into everyday geography lessons. You'll see concrete examples of how we use rich case studies and engaging decision-making exercises to help students develop specific character traits. These activities encourage pupils to look at complex situations from all angles\, embracing different cultural viewpoints and even exploring career perspectives. The result? A stronger sense of empathy\, sharper critical thinking and more responsible decision-making. Attendees will leave with a clear sense of how these powerful approaches can be adopted in their own classrooms. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T216\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:7192dba1be516af8066dce18723e8f97 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/7192dba1be516af8066dce18723e8f97 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T090000Z DTEND:20260410T095000Z SUMMARY:Keynote Lecture: Disaster by Choice: Geography Making a Positive Difference DESCRIPTION:A tsunami inundates Tonga as a pandemic's death toll mounts around the world. We hear that nature runs rampant\, seeking to destroy us through these 'natural disasters'\, with climate change at the forefront. Geography recounts a different story\, altering the disaster narrative so that we can act to stop disasters happening. Disasters are not usually the consequence of environmental phenomena\, such as volcanic eruptions and tornadoes. Instead\, they occur due to human choices\, notably decisions about where and how we live\, particularly how people with political power and resources treat those who have less. We put ourselves and others in harm's way while failing to take measures which we know would prevent disasters\, no matter what nature does. Disasters are not natural because the causes are human values\, attitudes\, behaviour\, and decisions\, which geography demonstrates that we can and should improve. CATEGORIES:HEADLINE LECTURE LOCATION:SL03\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:cb5d737afa95a067e6626c7f4eb42bea URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/cb5d737afa95a067e6626c7f4eb42bea END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T100000Z DTEND:20260410T103000Z SUMMARY:Morning break DESCRIPTION: CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:1fc1e30a3183f645b6b99e1a66e139fa URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/1fc1e30a3183f645b6b99e1a66e139fa END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T100000Z DTEND:20260410T103000Z SUMMARY:Hands-on learning with drones DESCRIPTION:By incorporating drones as tools for monitoring and surveying the world\, we empower students to explore Earth from new perspectives\, develop problem-solving skills and understand the importance of conservation and sustainability. Through hands-on experiences\, they also strengthen their ability to communicate\, collaborate\, harness technology and care for each other while working to protect the planet. This session will demonstrate hands-on drone activities to engage students and support problem-solving\, and share practical strategies for integrating drones into geography lessons. Participants will gain ideas to enhance fieldwork and connect lessons to real-world applications by integrating drones. CATEGORIES:FIELDWORK LOCATION:T205\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:bb55c19bb5eea7713f0462a647adfeb6 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/bb55c19bb5eea7713f0462a647adfeb6 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T103000Z DTEND:20260410T112000Z SUMMARY:Classroom talk: oracy makes a difference DESCRIPTION:Oracy involves engaging with others through speaking\, listening and communication. Research shows that this makes a difference to students’ learning. This lecture will illustrate how oracy enables students to make sense of geographical data\, ideas and issues by exploring them in small group and whole-class discussion. Through participation in classroom talk\, students develop vital life-skills of communication\, collaboration\, co-operation and criticality. \; CATEGORIES:CROSS PHASE LOCATION:SG03/S103\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:64640b99bff438dfab77b35267a77d4d URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/64640b99bff438dfab77b35267a77d4d END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T103000Z DTEND:20260410T112000Z SUMMARY:Could you make a difference? Write for the GA journals! DESCRIPTION:Geography\, Teaching Geography and Primary Geography journals are always on the lookout for new writers. In this session\, representatives from the editorial teams will outline the nature of their journal\, before the workshop phase enables you to explore your ideas. Your writing could really make a difference to the quality of geography in our schools and colleges. CATEGORIES:CROSS PHASE LOCATION:T216\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:4aa58fb67ed927b6496d2a5427f85235 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/4aa58fb67ed927b6496d2a5427f85235 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T103000Z DTEND:20260410T112000Z SUMMARY:GIS makes a difference: seven ideas to help understand our world DESCRIPTION:This session presents seven practical GIS ideas to enhance geography lessons and help students understand the world and their place within it. By using interactive maps\, GIS offers different perspectives and deepens insight into pressing global issues\, supporting meaningful learning and developing an awareness of both local and global challenges. CATEGORIES:ITE-ECT LOCATION:T205\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:4f1b656e024167cec67e8f20db07f68e URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/4f1b656e024167cec67e8f20db07f68e END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T103000Z DTEND:20260410T112000Z SUMMARY:Hazards\, History\, and Hope: How Geography Makes a Difference in a Multi-Risk World DESCRIPTION:This session bridges the Water/Carbon and Hazards units through an interdisciplinary lens. By contrasting multi-hazard exposure in Vietnam with community-led resilience in Wales\, we examine how physical processes intersect with environmental justice. Discover how integrated\, inclusive approaches to fieldwork empower students to navigate\, and change\, our complex\, high-risk world\, proving that geography remains the essential tool for global equity. CATEGORIES:ITE-ECT LOCATION:T209\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:048a67c053b324f8576d32900a23e836 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/048a67c053b324f8576d32900a23e836 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T103000Z DTEND:20260410T112000Z SUMMARY:Getting it right: avoiding pitfalls in interdisciplinary climate change education DESCRIPTION:Interdisciplinary climate crisis education recognises climate change as a lived experience. Maintaining rigour is challenging\, and teachers often feel uncertain outside their expertise. This session highlights geography’s central role\, offers practical strategies to support staff\, and includes hands-on group work where delegates design flexible\, engaging\, IPCC-aligned approaches for use in their own schools. CATEGORIES:LEADERSHIP LOCATION:T208\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:ea6d1452b381fa2b07774a63dea267c2 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/ea6d1452b381fa2b07774a63dea267c2 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T103000Z DTEND:20260410T112000Z SUMMARY:From local to global in primary geography: planning an effective place comparison study DESCRIPTION:This workshop will explore how children’s understanding of their local area can support enquiry into new places. Delegates will learn how to plan meaningful and comparative place studies\, tailor them to their cohort\, and use strategies that develop key geographical knowledge through lenses and scales. The workshop will also explore how place studies can be sequenced effectively within the curriculum. \; CATEGORIES:PRIMARY LOCATION:T207\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:646640f253869bf7a181b125808985d6 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/646640f253869bf7a181b125808985d6 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T103000Z DTEND:20260410T112000Z SUMMARY:Primary pupils making a difference: action for sustainability DESCRIPTION:In this interactive workshop\, we will identify opportunities for nurturing children's development as active young citizens through the primary geography curriculum. We will explore strategies for empowering them to take meaningful action for sustainability. The workshop will include collaborative activity\, school case studies and resource recommendations. CATEGORIES:PRIMARY LOCATION:T217\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:891b089eb86dfd680d4078270e2154f6 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/891b089eb86dfd680d4078270e2154f6 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T103000Z DTEND:20260410T112000Z SUMMARY:Empowering youth: make a difference with Another Way DESCRIPTION:This session will explore practical strategies to engage young people in climate action using Another Way’s Power of 10 app. You’ll learn how to embed it into your curriculum\, leverage geography for climate action and show students how they can make a difference. Support your school’s climate action plan through peer-led initiatives that inspire ownership and deliver real\, sustainable change! CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T210\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:33a38d966e5da94f4c5077f1a28ee905 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/33a38d966e5da94f4c5077f1a28ee905 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T103000Z DTEND:20260410T112000Z SUMMARY:Geological links in geographical decisions DESCRIPTION:Discussions at previous GA Conferences and on online forums show that many teachers are unsure of their knowledge around geological components within geography. This session provides opportunity \;to improve understanding\, both within geography units and more generally by making links to relevant news stories and contemporary issues\, for instance the decisions being made by global leaders on critical minerals and the influence of geology on urban expansion. \;How are geography and geology making a difference in decisions being taken - and can we make better ones? CATEGORIES:SUBJECT KNOWLEDGE LOCATION:T211\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:a2e8a848328264d436cd4b38bda365bd URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/a2e8a848328264d436cd4b38bda365bd END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T112000Z DTEND:20260410T125000Z SUMMARY:Lunch break DESCRIPTION: CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:80d64bdcf33ea76a358fd235cfb0026e URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/80d64bdcf33ea76a358fd235cfb0026e END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T113000Z DTEND:20260410T125000Z SUMMARY:Introducing the new National Geography Olympiad DESCRIPTION:This workshop will showcase the new National Geography Olympiad competition for Year 12/13 students which will launch for all schools in Autumn 2026. It will outline the rationale behind the competition\, how it works online\, the pilot we have run\, how to access the resources and what is expected of teachers. There will be opportunity for teachers to try a mini competition and ask questions about running the event in their own schools.\n\n CATEGORIES:FRINGE EVENT LOCATION:T209\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:d378ae8c8873bafd26043a3101b6d26c URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/d378ae8c8873bafd26043a3101b6d26c END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T113000Z DTEND:20260410T115500Z SUMMARY:Equity in geography: adapting to make a difference DESCRIPTION:This session will identify and share strategies that enable students to undertake meaningful geographical studies\, regardless of educational need and limitations. Attendees will come away with refreshed ideas for effective geographical teaching for SEND/EAL and other needs in the classroom. CATEGORIES:ITE-ECT LOCATION:T205\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:f04a98276ec36a250aba4c825d02fcd0 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/f04a98276ec36a250aba4c825d02fcd0 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T113000Z DTEND:20260410T115500Z SUMMARY:Inspiring green careers in the classroom DESCRIPTION:Explore how to integrate green careers and skills into the curriculum using free poster sets and career-specific decision-making activities. Gain ideas for teaching the relevance of green skills while preparing students for emerging employment opportunities and future-focused pathways. You will also leave the session with 3 ready-to-use green careers decision-making activities! CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T216\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:e17af571daad547364b5d13e9ade779a URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/e17af571daad547364b5d13e9ade779a END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T130000Z DTEND:20260410T135000Z SUMMARY:Flexible frameworks: adapting shared curriculum resources DESCRIPTION:This session will explore creative ways to adapt shared geography curriculum resources. Using the Oak geography curriculum as inspiration\, it will show how teachers can retain autonomy and creativity while using shared resources. Participants will explore strategies to tailor content to their local area\, pupil context and pedagogical approach\, making geography engaging\, relevant and empowering for all learners. CATEGORIES:CROSS PHASE LOCATION:T205\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:33cac057aaa2f9299b476507a8d0312f URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/33cac057aaa2f9299b476507a8d0312f END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T130000Z DTEND:20260410T135000Z SUMMARY:Primary Keynote Lecture: Why loving the world makes all the difference DESCRIPTION:In the Primary Keynote Lecture\, Helen will actively explore why Early Years and primary education is vital to our understanding of children's knowledge and understanding of geography. By considering child development\, the importance and spirituality of place\, the advocacy of our youngest learners in relationship with their curriculum\, Helen will suggest ways that we can deepen children's ownership of and with their world. CATEGORIES:HEADLINE LECTURE LOCATION:SG03/S103\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:657da5ec6c71c8a5858211c54fea03f3 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/657da5ec6c71c8a5858211c54fea03f3 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T130000Z DTEND:20260410T135000Z SUMMARY:National Geographic MapMaker – GIS for Primary Geographers DESCRIPTION:Find out more about the new GIS tool for primary geographers: National Geographic’s MapMaker. Created to allow teachers to integrate maps\, satellite imagery\, simulated weather and historical maps into their lessons\, alongside stories and data from real National Geographic Explorers. Students can explore topics from climate and wildlife to culture and society\, using intuitive tools that encourage curiosity and a sense of place. Hear from our pilot cohort of teachers about a range of uses\, from EYFS to KS2. CATEGORIES:PRIMARY LOCATION:T210\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:e0af3d1901775d615506f3ff1ccf84af URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/e0af3d1901775d615506f3ff1ccf84af END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T130000Z DTEND:20260410T135000Z SUMMARY:Creating a future-facing KS3 geography curriculum DESCRIPTION:How do we meet the challenges set out in the Curriculum and Assessment Review and Ofsted's most recent geography subject report to create a curriculum that adapts to an uncertain future while keeping the subject of geography at its heart? Mark Enser is the former National Lead for Geography at Ofsted and the series editor of the new Collins textbook series Discover Geography\, which aims to empower students to understand and think like geographers. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:SL03\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:1e42bcc9675960dcbbdfd76c087fcf8c URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/1e42bcc9675960dcbbdfd76c087fcf8c END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T130000Z DTEND:20260410T135000Z SUMMARY:Earth science is dying! DESCRIPTION:Highlighting the importance of a passion and commitment to Earth Science subjects: geography\, geology\, without which\, the subjects will die out. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T209\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:d3c92125912f8bae8b342c07fec20800 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/d3c92125912f8bae8b342c07fec20800 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T130000Z DTEND:20260410T135000Z SUMMARY:Future Pearson A level geography: review\, updates and collaboration DESCRIPTION:Join this interactive session to:\nConsider the Curriculum and Assessment Review panel’s recommendations for Geography.Share your feedback to help shape the future of A level Geography and the Independent Investigation (NEA).Learn about our updated guidance on the use of AI in the NEA.\n CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T211\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:fb445930434e24f393683473c300902b URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/fb445930434e24f393683473c300902b END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T130000Z DTEND:20260410T135000Z SUMMARY:The future of AQA Geography DESCRIPTION:Join us for a panel discussion with AQA's Subject Support and Product Team\, where we will discuss the Curriculum and Assessment Review outcomes\, share insights from our work to prepare for reform\, and the views of AQA Geography leaders and teachers. We will take questions from delegates about the future of AQA Geography specifications. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T208\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:12e6184f353324c8a1307f60c745a7ce URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/12e6184f353324c8a1307f60c745a7ce END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T130000Z DTEND:20260410T135000Z SUMMARY:Where Fire Meets Ice: Safeguarding Europe’s Last Wilderness DESCRIPTION:Iceland is widely considered one of Europe's last great wilderness frontiers\, particularly its vast\, uninhabited Central Highlands\, featuring glaciers\, volcanic landscapes and vast tracts of land with minimal human presence\, though threats from development and tourism are growing. It holds a significant portion of Europe's remaining wild areas\, offering pristine\, remote experiences often marketed as "Europe's last wilderness\," but this status faces challenges. Karen will discover Europe’s last wilderness and how the use of maps is instrumental in protecting these areas. She will explore how the Icelanders are trying to balance conservation goals with growing human activity\, plus economic and development pressures.\n CATEGORIES:SUBJECT KNOWLEDGE LOCATION:T207\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:57bc9247273ac1003a6542b6c3782c30 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/57bc9247273ac1003a6542b6c3782c30 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T140000Z DTEND:20260410T143000Z SUMMARY:Afternoon break DESCRIPTION: CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:041f323c554e37237919862eee4ac980 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/041f323c554e37237919862eee4ac980 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T140000Z DTEND:20260410T143000Z SUMMARY:Teaching A level geography: resource and idea exchange DESCRIPTION:This session aims to create a forum for sharing ideas about effective teaching of A level geography\, including fieldwork and the NEA component. The host will share some teaching and learning strategies designed to enhance cultural capital and employability among students with limited opportunity to travel. Attendees are encouraged to share one idea or resource of their own\, take two ideas or resources and pass one on for submission to a teaching resource/ideas bank\, which will (hopefully!) be disseminated to support teaching and learning at KS5. It is hoped that all teachers will leave with more ideas than they came with\, in order to make a difference not only to their own students but to the learning and life chances of the next generation of geographers more broadly. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T205\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:6f204c64091dfdcf643265f7854deb2b URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/6f204c64091dfdcf643265f7854deb2b END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T143000Z DTEND:20260410T152000Z SUMMARY:Geography research: making a difference DESCRIPTION:This workshop session\, run on behalf of the GA's Geography Education Research Special Interest Group (GERSIG)\, will support attendees in finding out more about research. Listen to researchers discussing their past research and how it has made a difference to education\, learners and the wider world\, gather ideas and prompts for your own research and access support from experienced researchers. \; CATEGORIES:CROSS PHASE LOCATION:T205\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:78fcf4b71b41f849b87a06fdfdced435 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/78fcf4b71b41f849b87a06fdfdced435 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T143000Z DTEND:20260410T145500Z SUMMARY:Exploring connections to nature through geography fieldwork DESCRIPTION:Connection to nature has received renewed importance through its inclusion as a policy aim within the Department for Education’s Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy. \;It has been shown to have a wealth of benefits for students' wellbeing\, and has potential to influence the development of pro-environmental behaviours. This session explores student perceptions of connection to nature before and after a geography fieldwork activity. The research indicates that students’ perceptions can be influenced over short periods of time. I suggest geography fieldwork as a way to incorporate opportunities for students to connect with nature within existing curricula. \;\n\n\n\n CATEGORIES:FIELDWORK LOCATION:T220\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:ab876a98e4a937dc55767ef163a2bd2d URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/ab876a98e4a937dc55767ef163a2bd2d END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T143000Z DTEND:20260410T152000Z SUMMARY:AI in the geography classroom: making a difference for teachers and learners DESCRIPTION:Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming a common feature of many classrooms\, but how can geography teachers harness it effectively to make a real difference? This session will explore practical\, impactful ways AI can support teaching and learning while also addressing the challenges it presents. For teachers\, AI can save time and enhance creativity in lesson planning\, resource design and assessment\, including marking and feedback. For students\, AI can become a valuable study partner\, helping with revision\, practice questions and independent learning. We will discuss strategies for teaching young people to use AI responsibly and effectively\, while also assessing how we can develop awareness of the technology’s limits\, biases and ethical concerns. This session will offer a clear set of practical ideas to trial back in the classroom and when planning lessons\, as well as to share with students. \; CATEGORIES:ITE-ECT LOCATION:T216\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:a1d8b0151830ba2d1d9358a6bb44d42e URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/a1d8b0151830ba2d1d9358a6bb44d42e END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T143000Z DTEND:20260410T152000Z SUMMARY:Geographical playfulness: storied\, embodied fieldwork DESCRIPTION:Join this lively practical workshop to reimagine fieldwork through play\, story and sensory exploration. Together we’ll wander landscapes\, weave tales and conjure enchantment with words\, images and making. Blending geography\, imagination and wonder\, we’ll spark curiosity\, compassion and joy\, sharing lyrical\, creative field practices to deepen connections with more-than-human worlds. \; CATEGORIES:PRIMARY LOCATION:T209\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:ec8269b51594ed6d85042229694e1cdd URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/ec8269b51594ed6d85042229694e1cdd END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T143000Z DTEND:20260410T152000Z SUMMARY:Linking geography and science: a cross-curricular approach DESCRIPTION:Spark curiosity by connecting geography and science in the primary classroom. This interactive workshop explores where the (English) primary geography curriculum naturally overlaps with science: energy\, climate and sustainability. Discover a dynamic (free) renewable energy resource that brings cross-curricular teaching to life\, helping pupils make real-world links\, think critically and get excited about the planet’s future. CATEGORIES:PRIMARY LOCATION:T211\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:533e153c50c6b5749599ccfd196b00c6 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/533e153c50c6b5749599ccfd196b00c6 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T143000Z DTEND:20260410T152000Z SUMMARY:Fostering global citizenship through geography: stories\, artefacts and empathy in action DESCRIPTION:Global citizenship is a frequently discussed yet often abstract concept within geography education. But what does it look like when embedded meaningfully into classroom practice? This session will explore how difference in geography - both in our practice and the lesson content - can serve as a powerful way to promote global awareness\, empathy and critical thinking. It will examine the transformative potential of stories\, artefacts and reflective practice in nurturing inclusive\, tolerant and inquisitive learners - a timely topic given the renewed presence of Fundamental British Values.\nIn an age of polarisation\, misinformation and environmental crisis\, geography teachers have a unique role in helping young people make sense of the world around them. By fostering curiosity\, encouraging open discussion and centering human stories\, we can cultivate learners who are not only knowledgeable but compassionate and embrace difference. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T208\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:b1518f978660034227e90959f9823d12 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/b1518f978660034227e90959f9823d12 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T143000Z DTEND:20260410T152000Z SUMMARY:Making our curriculum greener\, healthier and wilder: how can London National Park City help? DESCRIPTION:In this session\, Kate will share how we can teach about\, and use free resources from\, the London National Park City movement to make our curriculum (and thus students!) greener\, healthier and wilder. Linking to ideas around hopeful geographies\, we'll look at how we can ensure space for teaching about nature\, biodiversity and much more in our curriculum\; helping our geographers make a difference to their environment both locally and beyond. Although based on London National Park City\, this session is suitable for all - regardless of if you teach in London or not. \; CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T207\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:c2d755527ab3f05b19f34afd069c07fb URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/c2d755527ab3f05b19f34afd069c07fb END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T143000Z DTEND:20260410T152000Z SUMMARY:Supporting environmental career paths of disadvantaged young people DESCRIPTION:Social and economic disadvantages pose significant barriers to young people’s access to higher education. How can we create ‘stepping stones’ for disadvantaged young people to explore career paths in the environmental sector through further and higher education in the subject? This workshop aims to share the early findings of the UKRI-funded BEYOND project (https://www.open.ac.uk/blogs/per/?p=8674). CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T210\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:f45c7e6c174e063b4264fc88cd526239 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/f45c7e6c174e063b4264fc88cd526239 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T143000Z DTEND:20260410T152000Z SUMMARY:Climate education in the age of social media and consumerism DESCRIPTION:This session examines how geography educators can embed climate education within a world shaped by social media and consumer culture. Using the Good Life Schools framework\, it connects values\, place and carbon reduction with contemporary trends\, equipping teachers with practical tools to foster systemic understanding and critical discussion in the classroom. CATEGORIES:SUBJECT KNOWLEDGE LOCATION:T217\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:9df63a33de5a3a4679e0285983693820 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/9df63a33de5a3a4679e0285983693820 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T143000Z DTEND:20260410T152000Z SUMMARY:Extreme weather and its engines: uncovering the forces behind the change DESCRIPTION:This session delves into the many faces of extreme weather - from the harsh conditions of naturally ‘extreme’ regions to the formation of devastating tropical cyclones. We’ll explore how the redistribution of energy from equator to pole shapes our weather systems. As we look ahead\, we’ll examine how these extremes are evolving. Tropical cyclones are intensifying\, bringing stronger winds and heavier rainfall\, but is warmer ocean water the full story? Join us as we uncover the deeper dynamics powering the engine of extremes. CATEGORIES:SUBJECT KNOWLEDGE LOCATION:SG03/S103\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:fe91d5f1c0edfee687c27d62c57e52e2 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/fe91d5f1c0edfee687c27d62c57e52e2 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T145500Z DTEND:20260410T152000Z SUMMARY:Beyond the bug hotel: creating change through action planning for sustainable schools DESCRIPTION:Every education setting in England has been tasked with the development and implementation of a climate action plan. These should focus on the areas of decarbonisation\, adaptation and resilience\, biodiversity\, and climate education and green careers. In this presentation we will explore how teachers and learners at three primary school sites (one a Victorian\, one a mid-century and one a modern build) are currently addressing these themes. Our findings show that each setting has its challenges. However\, much of the work around sustainability and climate action sits outside of the curriculum\, falls to key personnel and focuses narrowly on planting and pollination. We explore how schools can address the requirements of the DfE’s climate action plan by drawing on learners' and teachers' visions of responsive actions that promote collective action and partnership. We will share recommendations and practical solutions that can be directly implemented within school settings in order to make a difference. CATEGORIES:CROSS PHASE LOCATION:T220\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:4a2230f173716e6355c2ba5b6743bb7a URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/4a2230f173716e6355c2ba5b6743bb7a END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T153000Z DTEND:20260410T162000Z SUMMARY:Hands-on environmental education makes a difference DESCRIPTION:Explore practical ways to make a difference through hands-on environmental education and the central role geography plays. It addresses sensitive environmental issues and connects students\, schools and communities. We share activities\, case studies\, action plans and ‘Green Days’. Suitable for all phases in urban and rural contexts. This workshop will inspire\, empower and equip you to make a difference. CATEGORIES:CROSS PHASE LOCATION:T207\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:1120d460683fc6c98cb7be574865dc8f URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/1120d460683fc6c98cb7be574865dc8f END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T153000Z DTEND:20260410T155500Z SUMMARY:Is your school climate ready? Leveraging authoritative data to target support and secure resources DESCRIPTION:Your school’s postcode shouldn’t dictate its climate resilience. Discover the national data revealing which vulnerable schools are being left behind. Learn how to use this research to advocate effectively for your students and secure the external support your community deserves. CATEGORIES:CROSS PHASE LOCATION:T216\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:68eb2a39bebebffa638e0d992e07d685 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/68eb2a39bebebffa638e0d992e07d685 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T153000Z DTEND:20260410T162000Z SUMMARY:Re-engaging pupils through outdoor learning DESCRIPTION:My research has looked at the engagement of primary pupils when learning outside. Through making use of Attention Restoration Theory\, pupils can recapture\, re-energise and re-engage with their learning. This session will look into how outdoor learning\, engaging with Attention Restoration Theory\, can make a difference to pupils' progress.  \;  \; CATEGORIES:CROSS PHASE LOCATION:T220\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:d4b6208f27a67a0d377213e9c48ad581 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/d4b6208f27a67a0d377213e9c48ad581 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T153000Z DTEND:20260410T162000Z SUMMARY:Geography education: putting the enjoyment back while making a difference DESCRIPTION:This session will show colleagues how small adjustments to lessons can increase engagement and really emphasise how geography makes a difference. \;Areas included will be the use of PowerPoints animations\, kinaesthetic coasts and maps\, using games in the classroom and the use of role play. It will be based on academic principles around using fun and engagement in education\, such as those proposed by Gabriella Tisza and Rex Walford. CATEGORIES:ITE-ECT LOCATION:T205\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:6c5912fd378050655923f4737a12aee4 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/6c5912fd378050655923f4737a12aee4 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T153000Z DTEND:20260410T162000Z SUMMARY:ITE\, knowledge and the science of learning DESCRIPTION:The new National Curriculum in England needs to be rooted in evidence. Does this evidence base include everyone - all ages and stages? What are the ‘reliable and meaningful insights’ and ‘effective disciplinary thinking’ for our subject \;(Interim report\, DfE\, 2024)? Join the GA's Teacher Education Phase Committee to reflect about this\, the norms around ‘knowledge-rich’ approaches (now in their second decade)\, and debates around skills in geography. \; CATEGORIES:ITE-ECT LOCATION:T209\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:2a5991cdc9e970ded6bb187528607f32 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/2a5991cdc9e970ded6bb187528607f32 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T153000Z DTEND:20260410T162000Z SUMMARY:Bringing geography to life through integrating indoor and outdoor learning DESCRIPTION:This session will introduce a teaching framework for primary teachers to integrate outdoor learning into their teaching of geography. It will demonstrate how the concepts taught in geography can make a difference in their own local environment and how their interaction with the processes taught within geography can make a difference. This hands-on approach can also make a difference to learners who struggle in the classroom and bring  \;learning to life for those who can't understand the real-life application of geography. Teachers will come away with a practical guide to using outdoor spaces to bring geographical concepts to life.\n\n CATEGORIES:PRIMARY LOCATION:T210\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:84c5148395ab0285a913dbd2f0347c1e URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/84c5148395ab0285a913dbd2f0347c1e END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T153000Z DTEND:20260410T162000Z SUMMARY:Pushing the envelope: making whole-school difference as a subject leader DESCRIPTION:This workshop will provide clear workable examples of how geography subject leaders can help geography to have a high profile and make a difference in a crowded curriculum by influencing their SLT and head teacher\, and thereby the school\, through whole-school approaches\, which\, with geography at their core\, tick the boxes of skills and cross-curricular development. CATEGORIES:PRIMARY LOCATION:T211\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:27c97bc43a631371598adbe79ad3a6ed URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/27c97bc43a631371598adbe79ad3a6ed END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T153000Z DTEND:20260410T162000Z SUMMARY:Playing on home turf: How sport can show that Geography makes a difference DESCRIPTION:How geography makes a difference is illustrated by the success story of Wrexham AFC with its impact on rejuvenating the local economy and growing international profile through investment by the American owners\, and their commitment to the wider local community. This session will share adaptable classroom resources about sports geography to examine geographical connections between place\, identity\, and globalisation. It will outline strategies for learners at KS3 to critically examine how their local geography matters at many different scales. CATEGORIES:SECONDARY LOCATION:T217\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:fff418504a87dd72177ae13b2882eb33 URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/fff418504a87dd72177ae13b2882eb33 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260416T185645Z DTSTART:20260410T153000Z DTEND:20260410T162000Z SUMMARY:Impacts of marine energy infrastructure projects DESCRIPTION:Drawing on cases studies\, this session explores how large-scale marine renewable energy infrastructures affect hydro-environments and local communities. The aim is to highlight the opportunities of renewable energy generation from marine resources as well as place-specific challenges\, showing how geographical context makes a difference in balancing energy generation and community well-being. CATEGORIES:SUBJECT KNOWLEDGE LOCATION:SG03/S103\, Sheffield\, UK SEQUENCE:0 UID:060900d07686d8445c5d54fd975d70ad URL:http://gaannualconference2026.sched.com/event/060900d07686d8445c5d54fd975d70ad END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR