GA Annual Conference 2026

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Highlighting the importance of a passion and commitment to Earth Science subjects: geography, geology, without which, the subjects will die out.

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.
In 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.

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.