In this special episode of GeogPod, we turn the microphone over to the current presidential team: Hina Robinson - GA President 2024-25, Denise Freeman - Immediate Past President 2023-24, and Catherine Owen - GA Vice President and upcoming president for 2025-26. Join them as they talk about their special roles not only with the GA but as women leading geography in state schools and how their relationship with the geographical community has developed over time. Hear about their personal passions for working with other teachers and geographers, inspiring the next generations and how geography teachers are continuing to bridge the gaps to support each other and know the importance of the subject. Links from the podcast: Get involved with the GA through our volunteer groups: https://geography.org.uk/get-connected/volunteer-groups/ Read about Denise's Presidential Tour: https://ga-blog.org/2024/08/28/advocating-for-gis-in-schools/ Watch Hina's Presidential Lecture from this year's conference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AUvI1ckHpGY Check out Catherine's theme for 2025-6 and submit an idea for the conference: https://geography.org.uk/events-cpd/ga-annual-conference-and-exhibition/propose-a-session-for-the-ga-annual-conference/ Series 15 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Oddizzi. Oddizzi’s award winning resources include lesson plans, presentations, printable materials, and engaging quizzes. But here’s the real game-changer: our virtual fieldwork films bring locations such as the Amazon rainforest, an active volcano and even Antarctica right into your classroom. www.oddizzi.com
In this episode of GeogPod John Lyon speaks with Jenny Cooke, the founder of Oddizzi, about what inspired her to pursue geography and create Oddizzi. Jenny’s goal is to create adaptable, flexible and supportive resources for geography teachers that inspire young children and make them look forward to their lessons. To accomplish this Jenny and her team have visited some amazing locations, including the Amazon Rainforest, Antarctica, and more! Jenny gives us an insight into what it takes to create their resources and anecdotes from some of her trips. Find out what the 2041 School challenge is and the free videos about Antarctica that you can use in the classroom to inspire students to become Antarctica champions. Jenny also gives some clues about future projects to watch out for! Resources www.oddizzi.com https://www.oddizzi.com/features/virtualfieldwork/ www.2041school.com Series 15 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Oddizzi. Oddizzi’s award winning resources include lesson plans, presentations, printable materials, and engaging quizzes. But here’s the real game-changer: our virtual fieldwork films bring locations such as the Amazon rainforest, an active volcano and even Antarctica right into your classroom. www.oddizzi.com
Laura Young, Scottish Influencer of the Year 2022/2024 joins John in this week's episode to talk about all aspects of her 'portfolio career' focusing on climate through research, social media and making an impact in our day to day lives. She talks about how her academic career began with everyday geographies, taking her on to experience worldwide perspectives of place, space and communities and how this has affected her approach to climate activism, reaching out to students, adults and governments alike through the power of social and digital media. Find out more about her work here: https://lesswastelaura.com/ Instagram: @lesswastelaura X: @LessWasteLaura Series 15 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Oddizzi. Oddizzi’s award winning resources include lesson plans, presentations, printable materials, and engaging quizzes. But here’s the real game-changer: our virtual fieldwork films bring locations such as the Amazon rainforest, an active volcano and even Antarctica right into your classroom. www.oddizzi.com
In this episode, John Lyon is joined by Parvati Raghuram, Manu Lekunze and Melis Cin who are part of the team that developed the Global Inequalities and the Climate Crisis Lessons. They discuss how the project came to be, how we have now moved from a climate crisis to a climate emergency and how teachers can effectively educate their students without creating fear or anxiety. They also talk about how Cameroon posed as a near perfect field to study the relationships between global inequality and the climate crisis. The resource was produced in partnership with the Decolonising Education for Peace in Africa (DEPA) project, funded by the Economic and Social Research Council’s Global Challenges Research Fund as well as Impact Accelerator Account funding from the University of Lancaster. You can find the free resource here: Global Inequalities and the Climate Crisis - Geographical Association Series 15 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Oddizzi. Oddizzi’s award winning resources include lesson plans, presentations, printable materials, and engaging quizzes. But here’s the real game-changer: our virtual fieldwork films bring locations such as the Amazon rainforest, an active volcano and even Antarctica right into your classroom. www.oddizzi.com
In this episode of GeogPod John talks to Robert Swan, who walked to both the North and South Pole, and Jenny Cooke, Founder of Oddizzi. John asks what inspired Robert to become a polar pioneer and climate change ambassador. They discuss his Antarctic journey’s difficulties, the beauty, the clear evidence of climate change and the dangers. In 2022 Robert invited Jenny on an expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula where they hosted a webinar for 40,000 children. Find out about this project, the 2041 treaty, and how important it is to inspire students and make them fall in love with Antarctica so they are passionate about saving it in future. Resources https://www.oddizzi.com/ www.2041School.com https://www.robertswan.com/ https://www.ted.com/talks/robert_swan_let_s_save_the_last_pristine_continent Series 15 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Oddizzi. Oddizzi’s award winning resources include lesson plans, presentations, printable materials, and engaging quizzes. But here’s the real game-changer: our virtual fieldwork films bring locations such as the Amazon rainforest, an active volcano and even Antarctica right into your classroom. www.oddizzi.com
In this episode, John talks to Anthony Barlow, Principal Lecturer and the subject leader for Geography Education at the University of Roehampton. Primary education is a precious time for children to spend time with each other, time in their locality and time with their teacher guiding them and letting them explore. That's the crucial point - from 'sustained shared thinking', to focused, framed and facilitated enquiries (Garner, Pickford and Jackson, 2013) as they get older, spending time outside, there is value and power in the repeated visit. Get your children outside, don't be scared by fieldwork - you might be surprised by how much looking through the window, circling the school buildings and walking your local perimeter can actually tell you about what they see, hear and think about your local geographies. Coaches are not always needed! Series 15 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Oddizzi. Oddizzi’s award winning resources include lesson plans, presentations, printable materials, and engaging quizzes. But here’s the real game-changer: our virtual fieldwork films bring locations such as the Amazon rainforest, an active volcano and even Antarctica right into your classroom. www.oddizzi.com
In this episode John Lyon talks to Karen Corfield, Education Development Consultant and Safeguarding Lead at Discover the World Education. A few topics discussed in this episode are: Iceland and Icelandic guides, GA Annual Conference, mentoring and inspirational teachers, fieldwork, connections and memories to place, and what your third place is. Resources Discover the World Education Costa Rica trip information Free CPD Workshops Series 14 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Discover the World Education. 'As the only tour operator who is a strategic partner of the GA, we're big believers in supporting teachers both in and outside the classroom. From our unforgettable geography trips to our award-winning resources and accredited CPD sessions, for us there’s nothing more rewarding than creating shared experiences that bring learning to life.'
John Lyon chats with Alice Gadney in this episode of GeogPod. Alice is a cartographer and also known as Captain Alice, founder of Mini Map-Makers. They discuss many topics, including: her PGCE; William Smith; Steve Backshall; ‘The Hobbit’; Mini Map-Makers; inspiring children with maps from primary age; and of course, their favourite maps. Resources https://minimapmakers.com/ Series 14 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Discover the World Education. 'As the only tour operator who is a strategic partner of the GA, we're big believers in supporting teachers both in and outside the classroom. From our unforgettable geography trips to our award-winning resources and accredited CPD sessions, for us there’s nothing more rewarding than creating shared experiences that bring learning to life.'
In this episode of GeogPod, John is joined by Jess Hill, Deputy Head at Alwoodley Primary School in Leeds. They talk about how the geography curriculum at the school has grown and changed over time, to reflect the children and families at the school as well as empower the staff teaching the subject. The episode also discusses the Primary Geography Quality Mark, the school's Gold Hub status and how to promote whole-school approaches to geography through effective CPD. Finally they look into practical ideas for fieldwork, building a geography club and how to get children learning 'through the soles of their feet.' Resources The Primary Geography Quality Mark 2041 School Champions of Antarctica Oddizzi school resources Find Alwoodley Primary School on X: Alwoodley Primary School Series 14 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Discover the World Education. 'As the only tour operator who is a strategic partner of the GA, we're big believers in supporting teachers both in and outside the classroom. From our unforgettable geography trips to our award-winning resources and accredited CPD sessions, for us there’s nothing more rewarding than creating shared experiences that bring learning to life.'
In this episode John talks to Catherine Walker, Newcastle University Academic Track Fellow in Human Geography. They discuss her background and a wide range of topics including: how you can become a geographer in different ways; travel; cultures and landscapes; geography through stories; social science; climate change and climate justice. Resources: Opportunities, complexities, and challenges in collaboration between school and university geography, GA Blog. Coffee and geography, episode 407 with Kit Rackley and Catherine Walker. Geogramblings website Young People at a Crossroads resources including the free book, teacher guide and more. Young People at a Crossroads — illustrations by Maisy Summer What role for geography in justice-focused climate change education? Geography, Volume 109, Issue 3 (2024) Series 14 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Discover the World Education. 'As the only tour operator who is a strategic partner of the GA, we're big believers in supporting teachers both in and outside the classroom. From our unforgettable geography trips to our award-winning resources and accredited CPD sessions, for us there’s nothing more rewarding than creating shared experiences that bring learning to life.'
This episode, John is joined by GA Chief Executive Steve Brace to discuss: what inspired him to pursue geography; a brief overview of the GA; the different routes into geography; the independent review of Curriculum and Assessment; and his top 4 priority areas of interest for the future. Here are a few resources mentioned in this episode: Curriculum and Assessment Review – Department for Education The GA’s review responses summary Geographers in the House of Commons – careers poster Geographers in media – careers poster GA Subject Knowledge Scholar Programme GA Online Teaching Resources GA Journals GA Events & CPD GA Annual Conference 2025 Sustainability and climate change strategy – Department for Education Defra Risk of Flooding from Surface Water Data OS Open Rivers ARCGIS - UK Rivers Atlas - ESRI Series 14 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Discover the World Education 'As the only tour operator who is a strategic partner of the GA, we're big believers in supporting teachers both in and outside the classroom. From our unforgettable geography trips to our award-winning resources and accredited CPD sessions, for us there’s nothing more rewarding than creating shared experiences that bring learning to life.'
In a special episode to celebrate Black History Month we join Professor Pat Noxolo from the University of Birmingham, Professor James Esson from Queen Mary University of London and Francisca Rockey, founding member of Black Geographers. They discuss the intersections between race, gender and class that affect young people today. Topics include how to navigate complex ideas in a complex world, the importance of recognising different narratives, and the possibilities for change, revealed by the amazing work done by geography teachers. Anti-racist work has been a means of support, comradeship and helping keep hold of talented people. Here are a few of the groups and resources mentioned in this episode: Black Geographers Salaam Geographia Geography Workshop Race, Culture and Equality Working Group American Association of Geographer Black Geographies Decolonising geography website & X (formerly Twitter) FI WI ROAD Black History Month Series 14 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Discover the World Education 'As the only tour operator who is a strategic partner of the GA, we're big believers in supporting teachers both in and outside the classroom. From our unforgettable geography trips to our award-winning resources and accredited CPD sessions, for us there’s nothing more rewarding than creating shared experiences that bring learning to life.'
John is joined in this episode by Sabeeha Bhatti, a teacher in her second year working in a school in West London. Sabeeha talks about how she got into geography teaching and how her personal passions and identity contribute to her teaching style. They discuss the impact of inspirational teachers, the benefits of using art in the classroom to exemplify change and how working in a diverse area with a changing population can foster empathy in students. Resources In the episode they look at a number of artworks, including: The Seven Rages of Man which appeared as part of Outside Narration, curated by Keith Piper, at the Graves Art Gallery in Sheffield from September 2021 to December 2023. Works by L.S. Lowry including Coming from the Mill and Going to the Match. Frida Kahlo's Self Portrait Along the Border Line Between Mexico and the United States. Thomas Cole's The Oxbow. Find Sabeeha on X: @MissSBhatti Series 13 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Rayburn Tours. For over 60 years, Rayburn Tours have been creating tailor-made school geography trips to destinations in the UK, Europe and beyond that inspire, motivate and enhance student understanding. Their expert team craft incredible itineraries of excursions and activities, with the added option of a geographical Field Study Tutor and on-tour resources. The best way to learn is through adventure!
In episode 81 our host John Lyon talks to Dr. Evelyn Wandia Corrado, a Senior Lecturer in the School of Education at University of Roehampton. They discuss her childhood in Kenya, the community and education systems as well as challenging perspectives and stereotypes, inclusive practice and pedagogy and the importance of engaging parents and including more representation in classes. Resources View Evelyn's Roehampton profile View the Primary Geography article 'Decolonising geography to unshackle the representation of Africa' Series 13 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Rayburn Tours. For over 60 years, Rayburn Tours have been creating tailor-made school geography trips to destinations in the UK, Europe and beyond that inspire, motivate and enhance student understanding. Their expert team craft incredible itineraries of excursions and activities, with the added option of a geographical Field Study Tutor and on-tour resources. The best way to learn is through adventure!
In this special sponsored episode, Cath Rule from Rayburn Tours, Dr Rob Parker from Time for Geography and Dr Rhian Meara of Swansea University join John to talk about their recent expedition to the island of Heimaey to complete a joint project around the eruption in 1973 and its impacts. They talk about the tectonics of the island, the events of January 1973 and their effect not only on the island's residents but on monitoring systems and impact management today. They look into the process of putting together a project of this size and how Time for Geography works with academics and organisations like Rayburn tours to put together real and engaging resources for schools. Resources from the episode: Find out more about the project with this expedition summary video Get involved with with Time for Geography’s GCSE hazards masterclass and look out for the finished video on their website. Watch their Why Study Geography video. Check out Rayburn Tours' range of educational trips. Follow the project team on X (Twitter): Time for Geography @timeforgeog Rayburn Tours @RayburnTours Rhiann Meara @RhianMeara Series 13 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Rayburn Tours. For over 60 years, Rayburn Tours have been creating tailor-made school geography trips to destinations in the UK, Europe and beyond that inspire, motivate and enhance student understanding. Their expert team craft incredible itineraries of excursions and activities, with the added option of a geographical Field Study Tutor and on-tour resources. The best way to learn is through adventure!
In this episode of GeogPod our host, John, talks to Fiona Sheriff about several different topics. From Fiona’s journey about how she first got into teaching, discussing her current projects and work-life balance to the direction of the geography curriculum, and something close to her heart - the importance of using maps and taking part in fieldwork. Resources from the episode: Find out more about Fiona’s upcoming book and pre-order it - ‘100 Ideas for Secondary Teachers: Geography Fieldwork’ Find out more about the charity Fiona is a local representative for - The Maternity Teacher, Paternity Teacher Project (MTPT) Find out about the GA’s Fieldwork and Outdoor Learning Special Interest Group (FOLSIG) Find out about the National Festival of Fieldwork taking place throughout June 2024 Fiona recently won awards from the GA and RGS, view the RGS podcast for Fiona winning her OS Award 2024 here Follow Fiona on X (Twitter): @fiona_616 Series 13 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Rayburn Tours. For over 60 years, Rayburn Tours have been creating tailor-made school geography trips to destinations in the UK, Europe and beyond that inspire, motivate and enhance student understanding. Their expert team craft incredible itineraries of excursions and activities, with the added option of a geographical Field Study Tutor and on-tour resources. The best way to learn is through adventure!
John is joined by Professor Jamie Lorimer and Dr Timothy Hodgetts to talk about what it means when geography is more-than-human. In a wide-ranging discussion, they look at the crossovers between geography, environmentalism, anthropology and the sciences. They talk about the importance of multiple and situated knowledge and how geographers can think differently about our entanglements with the world, from the good life for pigeons to follow-the-thing methodologies in the classroom. Resources from the episode: Find their new book here: https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.4324/9781315164304/human-jamie-lorimer-timothy-hodgetts Find them on social media here: https://twitter.com/jsplorimer https://twitter.com/oxfordgeography Series 13 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Rayburn Tours. For over 60 years, Rayburn Tours have been creating tailor-made school geography trips to destinations in the UK, Europe and beyond that inspire, motivate and enhance student understanding. Their expert team craft incredible itineraries of excursions and activities, with the added option of a geographical Field Study Tutor and on-tour resources. The best way to learn is through adventure!
In this episode John’s discussions with Dr Philipp Horn include ‘Urban Informality’ and they explore terms such as ‘slums’ and ‘favelas’ which are less used in geography education these days. It is worth listening to the whole episode to understand the use of the words and how many of them have been adopted and reclaimed by some people who live in informal settlements. Resources X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/Philipp__Horn Philipp’s staff profile (this includes the links to the publications/films discussed) Upcoming textbook on Urban Informality Roots Ahead film Series 13 of GeogPod is kindly sponsored by Rayburn Tours. For over 60 years, Rayburn Tours have been creating tailor-made school geography trips to destinations in the UK, Europe and beyond that inspire, motivate and enhance student understanding. Their expert team craft incredible itineraries of excursions and activities, with the added option of a geographical Field Study Tutor and on-tour resources. The best way to learn is through adventure!
This episode of GeogPod was recorded live at the GA’s Annual Conference in April 2024. Our host John Lyon talked to our guest, Donald McClean, from the Sheffield Environmental Movement. In the session they discussed the importance of fieldwork, widening participation in the natural environment, supporting diverse Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic Refugee (BAMER) community groups/organisations around Sheffield. Resources The Black Barbers Project on the SACMHA website. Sheffield Environmental Movement Development Education Centre South Yorkshire (DECSY)
In this episode our host, John Lyon, chats with John Hopkins, Katherine Baulcomb and Luke Hinchliffe - members of the GA's Assessment and Examinations Special Interest Group (AESIG). They discuss topics such as progression in geography, the progression and assessment guidance, sequencing, enquiry based learning and more. Resources: Progression and assessment in geography GCSE and A level results Find out more about AESIG Follow AESIG on X (formerly Twitter)