EDUCATION

In recognition of the significant learning and development impacts time spent in nature can have on children and young people, the Scottish Government has now introduced ‘nature-connectedness’ as an integral part of the Curriculum for Excellence. (Source: Education Scotland.)

Nature habitats and outdoor settings can also provide a more accessible space for STEM learning. Despite the positive outcomes STEM knowledge can have on our employability, and its contribution to the economy, many still face significant barriers to STEM engagement and learning. We need to identify and understand the reasons for unequal access, to achieve a major cultural shift in course choice processes and career pathways. (Source: STEM education and training strategy – refresh: annual report May 2022).

Connecting people and nature

700 primary-aged children engaged in nature-based activities and STEM via formal and informal learning sessions

Online

We have a strong track record of delivering nature-based STEM learning. Learning opportunities come from the workshop sessions we deliver in our Learning Hub or in schools, our outreach programme and science festival engagements and through informative and fun digital resources. Every visitor who comes to our Discovery Experience will learn something about the marine environment and Scotland’s internationally important seabirds and be inspired and empowered to take action to protect them now and for the future. To support this goal, we deliver marine education programmes, science resources and events that are relevant to national education frameworks.

3 sessions for 40+ college and University students to explore career topics including sustainable tourism and marine management

330+ individuals and families engaged through accessible and interactive marine science outreach activities

350

Engaging 350 children through virtual reality dive experience as part of the Orkney Science Festival

Engaging over 63 people with scientists in the field via Meet the Scientist events on Blue Carbon and the East Lothian Snorkel Trail

Feedback from beneficiaries of our learning programmes:

“I thought it was wonderful. Not many assemblies are so well received and engaging as yours. I can barely get my children with additional support needs to sit for 5 minutes but they sat through it engrossed”.

Glaitness Primary School, Orkney

“One of the best events I have been to with a class.”

Compass School

“Thank you – you made the activities fun and were very informative.”

Attendees of outreach events

“That was absolutely brilliant today. The children are buzzing.”

Restoration Forth community engagement event

“Thank you for an interesting and informative talk and for encouraging inputs from the audience e.g. sharing resources.”

Feedback from Meet the Scientist event

“Really enjoyable afternoon. Charlotte (Marine Outreach Officer) was really well informed and held everyone’s attention really well.”

Attendees of outreach events