Chris Webster, the owner of the Geography Fieldwork Academy which is based in the Old Hospital in Southwold, has been selected as an Ordnance Survey Community Champion.
The former Bungay High School teacher said: “As part of the recognition from the OS, I join a diverse group of other outdoor enthusiasts who collaborate and encourage greater engagement with the natural world.
"Our particular focus is on students aged between 14 and 18.”
5 of the GFA’s previous support tutors all graduates of Bungay High School (Image: Geography Fieldwork Academy)
The Geography Fieldwork Academy has worked with over 10,000 students in Southwold since its inception in 2017 when Mr Webster left his role at Bungay High School and Sixth Form.
Students attend a range of bespoke courses that are designed to develop independent skills of investigation into both the physical and human landscape.
In addition to its work with visiting students to Southwold, the centre has also received praise for the work it does providing local employment opportunities and training to young adults.
Visiting students are able to use aerial photography to monitor coastal erosion in areas like Easton Bavents (Image: Geography Fieldwork Academy)
Mr Webster added: “We have a small team of full-time tutors, but this increases during our busier summer months.
"I am fortunate to have good links with Bungay High School where I taught for 10 years.
"This summer we have recruited our 10th Bungay graduate to support us during our busiest period.
The Old Hospital in Southwold is The Geography Fieldwork Academy base in Southwold (Image: Geography Fieldwork Academy)
Mr Webster teaching at the Southwold sea wall (Image: Geography Fieldwork Academy)
“We have found that our seasonal work placements have been a really positive stepping stone for young adults.
"Finding full-time employment for young adults without workplace experience can be a significant challenge so their time with us provides a boost to their CV, employability and often confidence too."
Several of the Geography Fieldwork Academy’s seasonal staff have gone onto full-time careers in education locally, while others have found employment in the police and health care sector.
Geography Fieldwork Academy students with visiting students from Reepham High School (Image: Geography Fieldwork Academy)
Former Geography teacher's outdoor education business is thriving
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10.05.2024
Chris Webster, the owner of the Geography Fieldwork Academy which is based in the Old Hospital in Southwold, has been selected as an Ordnance Survey Community Champion.
The former Bungay High School teacher said: “As part of the recognition from the OS, I join a diverse group of other outdoor enthusiasts who collaborate and encourage greater engagement with the natural world.
"Our particular focus is on students aged between 14 and 18.”
5 of the GFA’s previous support tutors all graduates of Bungay High School (Image: Geography Fieldwork Academy)
The Geography Fieldwork........
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