Student research spotlight: Suzie Eden’s research on incorporating sustainability into the geography curriculum
Posted on 30 April 2025
Following the Student Sustainability Research Conference (SSRC25) at the University of Leeds in March, we are showcasing the incredible research presented by our students.
In the next feature of our Student Research Spotlight series, we spoke with Suzie Eden, a first year PhD student from the Department of Education. Suzie’s research focuses on how sustainability can be incorporated into the secondary geography curriculum.
Tell us about your research and what inspired you to pursue this area of sustainability?
My research focuses on the ways in which sustainability can be incorporated into the secondary geography curriculum (specifically key stage 3, which includes 11 to 14 year old's).
I was a secondary school geography teacher for 14 years. My experiences of teaching sustainability caused me to become increasingly interested in how teachers can help young people to develop a deeper and more nuanced understanding of it within the classroom.
What was your experience presenting at SSRC25 in March?
This was a really positive and enjoyable experience. Although I was initially nervous about communicating my ideas to other people, I found that everybody was very supportive and friendly! The process of creating my poster and presentation was valuable in itself because it helped me to clarify my thinking on some aspects of my project so that other people could understand it.
The questions and feedback from the audience also helped me to reflect on my research. I really enjoyed watching other people's presentations, which were varied and interesting. Another highlight was listening to the panels. I've certainly come away from the conference with lots of ideas!
Where do you hope your research will lead?
The aim of my research is to produce materials and ideas that secondary school geography teachers can draw upon in the classroom. I would also like to communicate my findings to organisations that write and influence the secondary geography curriculum.
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A huge thanks to Suzie for sharing more about her research and experience presenting at the conference. We're excited to follow Suzie's journey as she continues her PhD in the coming years!
Stay tuned for more stories showcasing the incredible work being done across our student community.