FSC Staff News

30.07.2026

Dear Colleagues,

Time for Geography – we have gone global
In my catch up last June I highlighted a new partnership with Time for Geography, University of Sheffield, and University of the West of England to produce two new videos starring our own staff. Since then, the project has grown considerably with a total of 6 Field Studies Council videos. The impact report from the project is in and it’s has been a phenomenal success.

Overall, the project has supported over five million geographers and geoscientists and has generated over 500,000 audience touchpoints for us whether that’s through our videos which had an audience of 190,000 this year, our promotional clips that bookend education videos, boosting our social media posts, or advertising our events and vacancies. Time for Geography has also had a welcome focus on careers, and career pathways for young people as this is a very topical growing area of concern for us and for government.

The impact report for the project is well worth a look with a specific page on Field Studies Council’ results.

Field Studies Council – Time for Geography | Annual Impact Report | July 2025 – July 2026

Password: 384611

Well done to everyone involved including education and marketing staff. We are now looking at what more we can do with this partnership.

Technical Education
On Tuesday the PM made an announcement regarding schools being able to offer technical subjects to pupils from age 14, alongside GCSEs. There were few other details, but this announcement probably doesn’t come as a surprise with a growing focus on technical and also vocational courses in England, but also in the devolved administrations too. New V levels from next September include Accounting and Finance, Digital Systems and Data, and Education and Early Years but there are plans to look at introducing more science/applied science and even green skill based qualifications in future.

The number of NEETs (Not in Education, Employment and Training) is high on the government’s agenda with the BBC also focussing on the issues this week. In the Autumn we are expecting part 2 of the Millburn report in which there will be recommendations. We continue to make the case with policy makers for outdoor learning and adventure as a way to develop work-ready skills – both vocational and personal.

Special Mentions
We had 2 nominations this week and do please keep them coming in:

Brenda Keyte, Slapton
This year marks a remarkable milestone as Brenda Keyte celebrates her 20th annual visit to Slapton as our volunteer librarian. For two decades, Brenda has generously given her time, enthusiasm and expertise, helping to enrich the learning experience of thousands of visitors.
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Brenda for her outstanding commitment and dedication over the years. Her contribution has made a lasting difference to the centre and to all those who have benefited from her support. Congratulations, Brenda, and thank you for 20 years of service to Slapton.

Sarah Coates at Castle Head
Sarah has been nominated for her “amazing job as senior tutor.” Not only teaching and instructing to the highest level but also constantly problem solving, suggesting great ideas, helping out team members especially at busy times, coming in early and going home late, taking on new challenges and courses, all to make sure that our visitors have the best outdoor experiences possible. The amount she does may not be seen by everyone but has not gone unnoticed by the person who nominated her. Thank you Sarah.
There are no new starters this week

Best regards
Mark