Whipton Barton Federation pupils have been making a splash this term with a series of incredible trips to the National Marine Aquarium, giving them hands-on learning experiences that have enriched their understanding of marine life and ocean conservation.

Reception pupils were the first to embark on an unforgettable adventure to the aquarium, where they had the chance to discover the wonders of the ocean. Their day was filled with engaging challenges, such as finding camouflaged creatures, spotting animals with more than ten legs, and discovering animals with hard shells. The children were thrilled to explore a wide range of sea life, from sharks and octopuses to the cheeky turtle, Friday. The visit culminated in an exciting diving show that left the children in awe of the wonders of the deep.

Thanks to a generous grant from The Northbrook Community Trust, Year 5 pupils also had the opportunity to visit the aquarium as part of their Biomes topic in Geography. This fully funded trip was packed with enriching activities, including an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour, a ‘Climate Conundrum’ workshop, and a thrilling virtual reality experience that allowed them to dive into the vibrant world of coral reefs. Pupils explored the effects of carbon dioxide on ocean waters, studied coral up close, and learnt about the vital role of marine biologists and aquarium rangers. The visit also provided invaluable insights into potential careers in marine conservation, sparking curiosity and a passion for environmental stewardship.

As part of the Ted Wragg Trust, Whipton Barton Federation is committed to enriching young people’s educational experiences by offering exciting opportunities that support learning beyond the classroom. These aquarium trips have not only encouraged a love for science but have also raised awareness of the critical need for environmental conservation.

Louise Moretta, Executive Headteacher at Whipton Barton Federation, shared her pride in the pupils’ engagement:

“We are incredibly proud of how curious and enthusiastic our pupils were during these fantastic visits. They had the chance to embark on an unforgettable adventure while gaining invaluable knowledge about the marine world. I would like to extend my thanks to The Northbrook Community Trust for their generous donation, which enabled our Year 5 pupils and teachers to experience what they described as the best school trip ever. Experiences like these are crucial in igniting curiosity and fostering a lifelong love of learning.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

“At the Ted Wragg Trust, we are committed to providing enriching experiences that cultivate young people’s curiosity and passion for the world around them. These recent trips to Plymouth Aquarium were an incredible opportunity to blend classroom learning with real-world exploration and have inspired our pupils to think critically about ocean conservation and the importance of protecting our marine ecosystems.”