Hyde Park Junior School

Future Citizens of Plymouth – the Ocean City

Plymouth, UK

2nd FUNDING CALL

Despite being a coastal city with a rich maritime history and leading marine research, many children in Plymouth have never been to the coast. This project aims to change that by engaging 630 primary-age students in various activities to enhance their understanding of human interaction with the coastal ocean.

Project Highlights:

1. Art and Nature Integration: Year 2 and Year 5 students will collaborate with The Box Museum to explore waterscapes and avifauna, creating art inspired by their coastal visits.
2. Marine Biology and Conservation: Year 3 will learn about marine animals and the impacts of overfishing and climate change, while Year 1 will participate in rock pooling sessions with Devon Wildlife Trust.
3. Noise Pollution and Marine Ecosystems: Year 4 students will work with the Marine Biological Association to study noise pollution in the ocean.
4. Climate Change and Fishing Practices: Year 6 will engage with local businesses and fishermen to understand the impact of climate change on fishing in Plymouth Sound.

Phases of the Project:

• Planning and Assessment (Sept 24 – Oct 24): Developing workshops, assessing current ocean knowledge, and preparing necessary materials.
• Implementation (Oct 24 – June 25): Conduct workshops and design a thematic quest for the Summer Fayre.
• Promotion and Evaluation (June – July 25): Exhibiting students’ artwork, preparing and holding the Summer Fayre, and assessing the project’s impact.

Stakeholders Involved:

• Families: Completing questionnaires, participating in the Summer Fayre, and visiting exhibitions.
• Teachers and Staff: Delivering and participating in workshops.
• Local Businesses: Supporting workshops and the Summer Fayre.
• Museums and NGOs: Designing and delivering workshops.
• Wider Community: Engaging with exhibitions and Fayre activities.

Hyde Park Junior School’s BP&SEA project aims to foster a lasting connection with the ocean, promoting environmental stewardship and marine conservation. The project seeks to create a community united in understanding and protecting the ocean by involving students, families, and local stakeholders.