About

I’m David, and it’s good to meet you. For over two decades, I’ve been committed to developing people, through serving them as an experienced teacher, educator and coach.  I know that there are amazing things that happen when we share openly, talk honestly, and work together to achieve shared goals.

At heart, my academic interests and priorities have always been with Geography. I was the first in my family to go to university, and I was really lucky to have been taught and guided by incredible mentors. After my initial Geography degree at Jesus College, University of Oxford, I took a PhD in climate change at University College London. I’m now privileged to serve as a Trustee of the Royal Geographical Society, as well as serving with some Geographical Association Committees, as well as the Royal Meteorological Society, and as part of the Editorial Board of Routes Journal. I’m an accredited Climate Change Ambassador for EN-ROADS, and I believe that there’s never been a more important time to be good at this subject, talking about it, and exploring how we inspire young people to make it happen. Now, I’m privileged to be an initial teacher educator with a leading education charity, building and leading an amazing team to inspire the next generation of Geography teachers in disadvantaged communities.

I’ve spent most of my professional career in education. As an experienced teacher and middle leader in South East London schools, I’ve worked to support young people achieving their best, and fulfilling their hopes. I’ve worked in Sixth Form leadership, and run Extended Projects, UCAS and Oxbridge programmes in a range of contexts, with a great track record of getting young people to be where they want to be.

Building on that experience, and my time as a former Royal Air Force officer with the cadet forces, I’ve developed a range of leadership and adventurous experiences that have taken people beyond their comfort zones. Whether it’s leading on a range of NGB qualification activities, running the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and expeditions, getting cadets airborne in Flying and Gliding Scholarships, or teaching aviation and leadership skills with Institute of Leadership and Management qualifications, I’m confident in coaching and developing people to achieve more than they thought they could.

I’m also an experienced leader of teams and building great team cultures. I’ve worked as a Head of Department, commanded an RAF Air Cadet Squadron, and worked in a range of Trustee and committee roles in different spaces. I’m an experienced middle leader and able to explore the translation of strategic objectives into real world outcomes with sensitivity and team workload and wellbeing as core priorities.

I believe in service, authentic and honest conversations, and providing clarity through strategic thinking. I’ve been privileged to work with some incredible people who have supported me on my journey, and I’m keen to help other people achieve their goals. If I can help you, please get in touch.