Plymouth Sound National Marine Park Launches Transformative ‘Sea in Our School’ Programme for KS2 Students Across Plymouth.
In a ground-breaking initiative aimed at fostering a deep connection between children and their natural environment, Plymouth Sound National Marine Park (PSNMP) has unveiled its highly anticipated ‘Sea in Our School’ programme. Designed for Key Stage 2 (KS2) students across Plymouth, this pioneering effort will inspire over a thousand young learners in the 2024/25 academic year, nurturing a new generation of ocean ambassadors.
With the support of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Plymouth City Council, and utilising The Ocean Conservation Trusts’ 25 years of experience in leading education programmes, this initiative sets out to break down barriers that have traditionally prevented children from engaging with nature and heritage. By bringing the wonders of Plymouth Sound to the classroom and beyond, the programme provides an unforgettable journey into the natural world for Year 3 students across the city.
Launching with a cohort of 30 schools, ‘Sea in Our School’ is set to make waves in the 2024/25 academic year. Led and delivered through National Marine Park partner, Ocean Conservation Trust (OCT), the programme promises a dynamic mix of hands-on learning, exploration, and creativity.
As part of this exciting initiative, every participating Year 3 student will receive a ‘Sea in Our School’ journal — a personal keepsake to document their experiences, reflections, and discoveries. Not only does the journal benchmark their knowledge and wellbeing, but it also helps students make powerful connections between engaging with nature and their overall happiness.
Councillor Sally Creswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, comments, ‘We want to ignite the imagination of every Year 3 student in Plymouth. By immersing them in the wonders of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, we’re not only nurturing future environmental stewards but also inspiring potential careers in marine science, conservation, and beyond.’
With Plymouth Sound serving as the UK’s first National Marine Park, the programme underscores the city’s commitment to preserving its rich marine heritage while empowering young minds to become advocates for environmental sustainability.
The ‘Sea in Our School’ programme is carefully structured around three key interventions, each designed to captivate and engage students throughout the academic year:
1. A Visit to a National Marine Park Gateway The journey begins for the 2024/25 cohort with an immersive trip to the National Marine Aquarium, one of four gateways to the National Marine Park. Here, students will explore the diverse marine life of Plymouth Sound, learning about its unique species, habitats, and the vital role of conservation. Through hands-on activities and expert-led sessions, they will gain a profound appreciation for the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.
2. Taking the Sea to School The second phase of the programme takes place in the classroom, with a representative from the National Marine Park visiting each participating school. These sessions will include interactive activities tailored to reinforce the students’ newfound knowledge. During and after these visits, students will complete sections of their journals, allowing educators to gauge their understanding and enthusiasm.
3. A Virtual Exploration of Plymouth Sound In the summer term, students will embark on a virtual journey to a unique location within Plymouth Sound National Marine Park. Each class will explore a bespoke site, delving into its history, cultural significance, and geographic importance. This virtual experience will be enriched with storytelling and visuals, offering a window into the incredible heritage of the area.
At its heart, the programme seeks to highlight the link between nature and wellbeing. By engaging students with the marine environment, ‘Sea in Our School’ not only enhances their ecological knowledge but also promotes emotional resilience and happiness.
The ‘Sea in Our School’ journal is central to this mission. Thoughtfully designed to benchmark students’ existing knowledge and wellbeing, it evolves into a treasured record of their experiences. The journal encourages self-reflection, helping children to see the positive impact that interacting with nature has on their mood and mental health.
‘Sea in Our School’ is more than a programme; it’s an investment in Plymouth’s future. By empowering children to explore their potential through the lens of the Marine Park, it nurtures an enduring relationship with the natural world.
Elspeth Shears, PSNMP Schools Project Lead at Ocean Conservation Trust, said:
‘This isn’t just about teaching children facts about the ocean. It’s about inspiring curiosity, creativity, and a sense of responsibility. By equipping them with the knowledge and tools to care for their environment, we’re ensuring that Plymouth Sound’s heritage and beauty will be cherished for generations to come.’
As the UK’s first National Marine Park, Plymouth Sound is leading the way in connecting communities to their coastal heritage. ‘Sea in Our School’ reflects the city’s commitment to making the park accessible to all, starting with its youngest residents.
This innovative programme aligns with national priorities to protect and promote natural heritage, using education as a catalyst for change. With backing from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Plymouth City Council, and Ocean Conservation Trust, it showcases the power of collaboration in creating meaningful, sustainable initiatives.
While the 2024/25 academic year marks an ambitious start, the ‘Sea in Our School’ programme is just the beginning. Over the next five years, it aims to reach thousands of students across Plymouth, scaling its impact and leaving an indelible mark on the city’s educational landscape.
‘Sea in Our School’ is a celebration of Plymouth’s unique marine heritage and a call to action for the next generation. By empowering children to explore, learn, and care for their local environment, the programme is creating a legacy that will ripple through schools, families, and the community for years to come.
Find out more about Plymouth Sound National Marine Park and The National Lottery Heritage Fund The Horizons Project – Plymouth Sound National Marine Park