How to Save the Planet: Teaching the Climate Emergency in Primary Schools -

Turner, Paul: - Back when I had long hair, I studied geography in Cornwall and spent a few years organising live music and events. It was here that I experienced diy (do-it-yourself) culture and community and learnt what was possible when you combined creativity, action and a group of willing and supportive people. I soon trained as a geography teacher at Cambridge before working for a company making educational videos for schools. I went on to teach in a variety of schools from all girls to state and even boarding schools across the south of England.

Whilst teaching I always sought to explore wider education opportunities, working with charities such as The Equality Trust, Royal Geographical Society and Geography Association to organise events for young people and teachers. Covid happened and like many people it prompted me to change my circumstances. Life is too short, so I decided I wanted to have an impact beyond a single classroom and support teachers across the country. I took up a role engaging young people with ideas of air pollution and active travel as part of the walking and cycling charity, Sustrans.

Soon after I found myself leading the Ministry of Eco Education, funded by the environmentalist Dale Vince. I continue to author innovative curriculum, often based on the premise of taking radical books like Trespass and Who Owns England? and turning them into dynamic learning journeys for teachers to inspire young people.