Annual ESTA Conference
Join us in 2027 for our 60th Annual Conference
What to Expect
ESTA's Annual Conference is its flagship event - a weekend bringing together teachers, educators and Earth Science enthusiasts from across the UK. Each year we gather at a UK university to share ideas, develop practice and celebrate everything that makes Earth Science education vital and exciting.
The conference combines keynote speakers, practical workshops and field experiences with the chance to connect with colleagues who truly understand the subject. Whether you are an experienced teacher or just starting out, the ESTA Conference offers CPD you can use immediately alongside a community that will stay with you long after the weekend is over.
workshops and sessions designed to deliver ideas and resources you can take straight back into the classroom
Practical CPD
a weekend surrounded by colleagues who share your passion for the subject, from classroom teachers to university educators
Community
keynotes and presentations from leading voices in Earth Science education, research and industry
Expert Speakers
get out into the landscape with guided field trips that reconnect you with the science at the heart of what you teach
Field Experience
This year’s conference
The 59th Annual ESTA Conference took place at the School of Earth, Environment and Sustainability, University of Leeds, between 11–13 September 2026. The programme ran from Friday evening through to Sunday afternoon, and combined keynote speeches, practical workshops and a Sunday field trip.
The programme included a mix of lectures and interactive workshops, including:
Lab Tours
Geophysics Demonstration
Geology of Wine Talk
Conference Dinner and after dinner speaker
Workshops and practical sessions focused on:
QGIS
Mantle Plumes
Maths for Geology
On Sunday the field trip studied the geology of Roundhay Park.
Want to join us next year?
ESTA’s 60th Annual Conference
September 2026
University of Plymouth
Come and help us to celebrate our 60th Birthday at the University of Plymouth. It’s a big milestone for ESTA, so expect something a bit special.
We will update you on our plans over the coming months. Why not sign up to our newsletter to keep up to date on conference developments and all things ESTA?