Graham French

Graham French is a Senior Lecturer in Education and Deputy Head of the School of Education at Bangor University. He also serves as the sustainability lead for the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. Previously, he held roles such as Director and Deputy Director of the PGCE Secondary course, postgraduate lead, and international officer. His career includes teaching in secondary schools and further education, alongside extensive experience in outdoor education as an instructor and expedition leader. He has taught subjects ranging from sciences to mathematics and physical education.

Educations:

• PhD (2025): 'Can a new models-based approach to adventure education promote affective learning through the curriculum?'
• MA (2015): Outdoor Education
• PGCE (2000): Secondary (Science and Outdoor Activities)
• BSc (1998): Marine Biology

Research Interests: Graham’s work focuses on outdoor education pedagogy, adventure education models, and curriculum integration. He explores themes like environmental sustainability, place-based learning, and the impact of AI on outdoor education. His research also addresses societal challenges such as child poverty in Wales and its implications for education policy.

Grants & Projects:

• £55,000 Sport Wales Physical Literacy Project
• £25,000 Welsh Government-funded study on pandemic impacts on health/well-being
• £20,000 Welsh Government project on outdoor learning in Wales

Professional Roles: He chairs the Institute of Outdoor Learning (IOL) Cymru regional committee, the North Wales region of the Association of Heads of Outdoor Education Centres (AHOEC), and sits on editorial boards including the Journal of Adventure Education and Outdoor Learning. He also advises national activity providers and serves as an external examiner for multiple universities.