This year we mark the 10th anniversary of our collaboration with the National Council for Geographic Education (NCGE) and we’re proud to celebrate a decade of transformational field-based learning at GeoCamp Iceland. Since 2015, over 150 geography educators from across the United States have taken part in this one-of-a-kind professional development experience, immersing themselves in Iceland’s dynamic landscapes, sustainability solutions, and rich geographic stories.

Our partnership with NCGE began serendipitously at the Icelandic Ambassador’s residence in Washington, DC—a meeting that led to a shared vision of Iceland as a natural classroom. From that moment, a deep collaboration grew, rooted in mutual respect, curiosity, and a shared belief in the power of place-based education.

Iceland offers a living laboratory where human and physical geography meet in dramatic fashion. Tectonic rift zones, glaciers, volcanoes, geothermal power, and renewable energy solutions are not just abstract concepts here—they are daily realities that shape lives and landscapes. At the same time, Iceland’s unique settlement history, language, and contemporary responses to globalisation provide rich material for exploring culture, sustainability, and resilience.

NCGE at GeoCamp Iceland isn’t just about geography—it’s about reigniting the passion to teach it. Through inquiry-based fieldwork, from walking lava fields to discussing geothermal innovations over a traditional Icelandic meal, educators return home inspired, equipped with tools, lessons, and experiences that bring geography to life for their students.

Here’s to ten years of walking the land, asking questions, and learning together. We look forward to the next decade of discovery.

“GeoCamp Iceland has been a wonderful experience for everyone who’s been part of it. There just couldn’t be a better learning environment than this—because of your incredible family and your expertise in creating such a finely tuned, intentional learning space. Wishing you all the best as you head into the next decade of outdoor learning." — Bob Dulli, former Director of Expeditions, National Geographic

“Greetings to all the multidisciplinary colleagues who shared their enthusiasm for gaining new knowledge, skills, and perspectives while doing field studies with superb Icelandic educators. I’m grateful for everything I’ve learned and been able to apply over the past ten years. I still have a t-shirt that says: ‘Have an attitude of gratitude at every latitude.’ My Iceland experiences truly reinforced that gratitude!” — Robert “Bob” Morrill, Past President, National Council for Geographic Education (NCGE) and Professor Emeritus, Virginia Tech

“GeoCamp Iceland gave me the opportunity to immerse myself in a geologically rich environment and explore first-hand the processes that shape volcanic landscapes. The program not only supported my own research into cold environment landforms but connected me with educators and professionals across disciplines. From field visits to geothermal plants and glaciers, to conversations with civil protection agencies and scientists, the experience was both intellectually rigorous and deeply inspiring. It’s shaped how I teach about natural hazards, climate change, and sustainability in my classroom, and I fully intend to return for future research.” — Dr. Carol Sawyer, Associate Professor of Earth Sciences, University of South Alabama (Participant at NCGE GeoCamp Iceland)
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Outdoor Learning and Sustainability in Cappadocia

From 23–29 April 2025, the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia, Türkiye, set the stage for the second Learning, Teaching, and Training Activity (LTTA) of the AURORA project--Advancing Understanding and Respect of Outdoor and Rural Areas. Hosted by Worldwise, this mobility gathered youth and group leaders from Ireland, Finland, Iceland, and Türkiye for a week of immersive outdoor education and intercultural exchange.

The programme unfolded across UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient underground cities, and surreal rock formations, turning Cappadocia into an open-air classroom. Activities included hands-on outdoor workshops, sustainability sessions, and augmented reality (AR) storytelling, all designed to foster environmental awareness, digital competence, and peer collaboration.

Participants engaged with themes such as conservation, eco-friendly practices, and behavioural change. Highlights included exploring Derinkuyu Underground City, hiking through Ihlara Valley, and visiting Zelve Monastery and Monks Valley. These excursions were not only experiential but also contributed to the development of the AURORA AR platform, capturing footage that will be used to educate other young people across Europe.

Cultural evenings hosted by each partner country deepened intercultural understanding and solidarity, while reflection sessions and the certificate ceremony provided recognition of the personal and professional growth achieved during the mobility.

The LTTA in Turkey exemplified the spirit of the AURORA project—where outdoor learning meets digital innovation, empowering youth to connect with nature and each other in meaningful ways.

We believe that the best education happens in the field — where learning is hands-on, teamwork is essential, and challenges become opportunities for growth. This April, we were proud to host an outstanding group of students and educators from Auburn for an immersive outdoor education programme that blended Earth sciences, sustainability, cultural studies, and global collaboration.

Throughout their visit, students explored Iceland’s surficial geologic history, glaciers, volcanoes, and the cultural ties linking Iceland with its neighbouring countries. They engaged in hands-on activities designed to build essential skills, including planning, navigation, meal preparation, and shared group responsibilities. The programme bridged disciplines across Earth and climate sciences, ornithology, global economics, history, cultural studies, visual arts, and science communication — offering a truly multidisciplinary learning experience.

Students also had the opportunity to explore the local beaches and historic lighthouses surrounding the Suðurnes Science and Learning Center, where the group was based. Later in the week, they worked alongside scientists at the centre, gaining real-world insights into ongoing environmental and climate research projects.

Beyond academics, the Auburn students demonstrated remarkable teamwork, resilience, and a strong sense of community. As one student put it, “GeoCamp Iceland became more than just a study programme — it felt like a home away from home.”

​We are especially grateful to Erin Towns and Auburn’s educational leadership for their trust and collaboration in building this experience. Looking ahead, we are excited to continue strengthening our partnership. Future plans include creating opportunities for Auburn students to connect with Icelandic students and to deepen the collaboration with GeoCamp Iceland’s education team.

​All photographs by Erin Towns

We’re incredibly proud to celebrate the success of our good friends and partner school in Croatia, Elementary School Sibinjskih žrtava, whose Tesla’s Classroom project was recently recognised as one of the most successful initiatives in the country under the EEA Grants-funded “Local Development and Poverty Reduction” programme. At the national closing ceremony in Zadar, their project received second place in the public vote – a true testament to the passion and dedication of the students, teachers, partners, and the wider community.

As partners in the EEA Grants-funded STEM projects in Croatia, we at GeoCamp Iceland have followed their journey with admiration. Tesla’s Classroom is a shining example of what happens when curiosity, creativity, and sustainability come together. From a fully equipped modern STEM learning space to a rooftop solar power plant, a greenhouse, and an outdoor learning gazebo – this initiative offers students a hands-on, real-world education that encourages research, critical thinking, and environmental responsibility, in true Tesla spirit.

Congratulations to everyone involved in this inspiring project! We are honoured to be your partners and look forward to continuing our collaboration where science, technology, and nature build the future together.

You can read more about our project with Sibinj Elementary School here.

In March 2025, a small team from GeoCamp Iceland travelled to Odense, Denmark, to attend the Big Bang Conference – Denmark’s largest event focused on science education. Big Bang brings together educators from all levels who teach or work with science and STEAM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics).

This marks the second year in a row that GeoCamp Iceland has participated in the conference alongside teachers from the Reykjanes Peninsula – a tradition we hope will continue.

“Big Bang offers a wide variety of sessions and resources for STEAM educators. From workshops to talks, there’s something for every age group and subject focus. While it helps to speak Danish, I managed just fine using Google Translate, and most participants were happy to switch to English if needed. What stood out to me was how diverse educational materials are in Denmark, and how actively companies and institutions engage with schools. It was also inspiring to see the level of volunteer involvement in educational initiatives.”

Sara Ross Bjarnadóttir, Information and Technology teacher at Gerðaskóli, Suðurnesjabær

Over two vibrant days, teachers explored creative ways to bring science into the classroom and beyond – with many sessions highlighting the value of outdoor learning. The conference was also a fantastic opportunity to connect with colleagues, exchange ideas, and feel the strength of a wider educational community.

“For me, attending Big Bang wasn’t just about discovering new teaching methods. It was also about finding common ground with teachers from other schools – even other countries – who face similar challenges and share the same passion for teaching. It made me feel less alone and more inspired. I learned a lot, gathered new tools and ideas for both short and long-term projects, and gained fresh motivation. One highlight was the opening keynote by Carsten Rahbek on biodiversity. His talk was powerful yet hopeful – showing complex topics in a visual, engaging way. Even with the serious tone of climate urgency, it left us all more knowledgeable and inspired.”

Hildur Sigfúsdóttir, Science teacher at Heiðarskóli, Reykjanesbær

At GeoCamp Iceland, we believe that international collaboration and exposure to best practices strengthen both our teachers and students. Big Bang 2025 gave us new insights and renewed energy to continue developing exciting learning experiences rooted in nature, sustainability, and science.

As interest in science education, sustainability, and hands-on learning continues to grow, the Reykjanes Peninsula played host to a national conference focused on strengthening the teaching of natural sciences in Icelandic schools. Held at Sandgerði Primary School on 28–29 March, the event brought together educators, researchers, and stakeholders from across the country. The initiative was led by the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, supported by a planning committee representing the University of Iceland, the University of Akureyri, the Icelandic associations of science and primary school teachers, the Suðurnes Science and Learning Centre, and GeoCamp Iceland.
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The conference is part of a nationwide effort to strengthen natural sciences education, with similar events taking place in different regions every two years. This year marked the first time the conference was hosted on the Reykjanes Peninsula. More than 50 participants attended, including teachers from preschools, primary and secondary schools, representatives of academia, and others involved in the development of science education.

The program placed strong emphasis on highlighting local expertise, regional resources, and innovative pedagogical approaches, while also incorporating international perspectives through keynote addresses by Per Arild Konradsen, founder of First Scandinavia, and Professor Douglas Larkin of Montclair State University, both recognised for their contributions to science education and teacher development.

Alongside keynote presentations, the conference programme featured a series of workshops and presentations delivered by practising teachers, who shared pedagogical approaches and classroom-based initiatives. The University of Iceland’s School of Education contributed insights on recent changes to national curriculum standards, while additional sessions focused on the integration of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) subjects and the creation of innovative teaching resources.

GeoCamp Iceland led the final component of the programme - a field excursion within the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark. Guided by the Director of GeoCamp Iceland, Ólafur Jón Arnbjörnsson, the tour introduced participants to the area’s unique geological landscape, including geothermal activity and sites affected by recent volcanic eruptions and seismic events. The excursion concluded with site visits to Grindavík and Svartsengi, offering a direct view of the effects of recent natural hazards on local communities and infrastructure.
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GeoCamp Iceland’s participation in the conference underscores our dedication to outdoor education, experiential learning, and the advancement of Earth science and sustainability within both national and international educational contexts. Through the facilitation of real-world learning environments and a focus on scientific literacy, GeoCamp aims to contribute to the development of STEAM education while promoting collaboration across educational levels and sectors.