I was a comprehensive school geography teacher for 12 years becoming a Deputy Headteacher in 1985. I joined the Institute of Education (IoE) in 1986-7 as a teacher educator,  becoming Reader in Education in 1999 and enjoying a spell as Assistant Dean ITE (research). I played a leading role in introducing the Master of Teaching (MTeach) at the Institute. In 2002 I left the IoE to became full-time Chief Executive of the Geographical Association, helping to guide its transformation into a significant provider of CPD and a leader in funded curriculum development activity. From September 2007 I had the opportunity to combine this role with a return to the IoE as Professor of Geography Education. Recent publications include “Geography 11-19: a conceptual approach”, co-written with John Morgan. My overarching goal is to advance the importance of geography in schools, not least its role in helping young people grasp the significance of the Anthropocene.