GeoSciEd X Conference

Mr Guy Represents Fort Street at GeoSciEd X Conference

From 14–16 August, I had the opportunity to represent Fort Street High School at the GeoSciEd X Conference in Adelaide (Kaurna Country).

Held every four years, GeoSciEd is the International Geoscience Education Organisation’s flagship conference, bringing together teachers, researchers and education leaders from around the world to share the latest developments in geoscience education. The ideas, resources and professional connections developed at GeoSciEd will directly inform future Earth and Environmental Science lessons, ensuring Fort Street students continue to benefit from the latest research and best practice in science education.

The conference combined field experiences, workshops and presentations focused on improving the teaching of Earth and Environmental Science. It provided an opportunity to exchange ideas with educators from across Australia and overseas, explore innovative teaching approaches, and discuss how geoscience education can inspire the next generation of students.

As part of the conference, I presented to approximately 60 secondary Earth and Environmental Science educators, sharing how Fort Street High School uses evidence-informed teaching strategies to help students analyse geological evidence, connect Earth’s history with modern environmental challenges, and develop a deeper understanding of science. It was particularly rewarding to see the interest in the way we structure our lessons, with many teachers keen to continue the conversation and adapt these approaches for their own classrooms.

Professional learning opportunities such as GeoSciEd ultimately benefit our students. By engaging with current research, collaborating with colleagues and reflecting on effective classroom practice, I return with new ideas, resources and professional connections that will continue to enrich Earth and Environmental Science teaching at Fort Street High School.

One of the unexpected highlights came while exploring Adelaide’s rich geological history. Whenever I mentioned I taught at Fort Street High School, conversations quickly turned to Sir Douglas Mawson and the school’s long association with geoscience. As one of Fort Street’s most distinguished alumni, Mawson’s influence is everywhere in Adelaide—from the University of Adelaide, where he served as Professor of Geology for more than 30 years, to the South Australian Museum, where artefacts from his Antarctic expeditions are proudly displayed. I was even recognised by a former Fort Street student while standing beside a reconstruction of Mawson’s famous Antarctic hut—a reminder that there is seemingly no escaping “The Fort”. It was a lovely reminder that Fort Street’s reputation extends well beyond Sydney and that the school continues to be associated with excellence in science.

Representing Fort Street at an international conference celebrating geoscience education was a privilege and a reminder of the school’s proud scientific heritage. I look forward to bringing the ideas and inspiration from GeoSciEd back into the classroom for the benefit of our students.