Unlocking potential: how OS is championing lifelong learning in geography and geospatial

As the National Mapping Service for Great Britain, we help deliver a pipeline of talent into the sector by inspiring students and young people in the importance of geography.

Our impact report outlines how we’re supporting the creation of a future-ready workforce through a strategic focus on education, promotion, and development, inspiring the next generation of geospatial professionals.

Educating for the future

Our commitment to education starts in the classroom. OS supports geography teaching through our Education Plan, funded by the Government Digital Service.

We provide:

• Teacher training for Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) students and experienced educators alike, helping them integrate Geographic Information Systems (GIS) into their lessons.
• Free access to Digimap for Schools for eligible institutions, empowering students with hands-on experience using real-world mapping tools.
• Online resources aligned with the national curriculum, supporting teachers from Key Stage 1 through to Key Stage 4. 

In 2023-24 alone, nearly 2,000 educators received training through OS-led sessions, and hundreds of schools benefited from access to digital mapping tools.

Promoting geospatial awareness

Beyond the classroom, OS is working to raise awareness of the value of geography and mapping across society. Initiatives like National Map Reading Week and our GetOutside campaign help the public build confidence in navigation and spatial thinking.

We also collaborate with key Partners such as the Royal Geographical Society and the Geographical Association to enhance professional development and celebrate excellence in geography education.

Developing talent and innovation

To remain at the forefront of geospatial innovation, OS invests heavily in professional development and research. Our Graduate Scheme and Apprenticeship Programmes provide structured pathways into the industry, while internal initiatives like the OS Academy support continuous learning and leadership development.

We also maintain strong ties with academia – sponsoring PhDs and postdoctoral research, and hosting the OS Research Workshop — an annual gathering for knowledge exchange and innovation for researchers that we support.

Looking ahead

The demand for geospatial skills is growing rapidly, particularly in an environment where technologies are changing how we understand and shape our society. We understand that the digital skills of today won’t be sufficient to shape the systems of tomorrow. OS is committed to meeting this challenge with additional commitment to supporting data and geography education.

Our future plans include:

• Expanding regional teacher training networks
• Enhancing GIS tools for schools
• Promoting AI training to support data-driven decision-making
• Strengthening diversity and inclusion in the geospatial workforce

Supporting Partners will be critical in ensuring that geospatial continues to keep pace with the rapid changes in technology, while also ensuring that out work helps to underpin an informed, resilient, and spatially aware society.

Conclusion

We see lifelong learning not just as a responsibility, but as a strategic imperative. By educating, promoting, and developing geospatial skills, we’re helping to unlock the full potential of location data.