As part of their child-led topic on Seas and Oceans, one of our Form 2 classes embarked on an excursion to the Norfolk Coast to Sealife Hunstanton. They visited the aquarium and the beach, with the aim of learning practical ways to protect aquatic life. They gained insights into marine ecosystems, the importance of conservation, and the rehabilitation of orphaned or injured seals at the sanctuary. Interactive experiences, such as underwater tunnels, allowed the children to engage closely with creatures like sharks and turtles, fostering a deeper understanding of their habitats and behaviours.
We must protect the ocean from plastic because turtles cannot see very well. They can get confused with plastic bags and jellyfish which is their food and then become unwell.
Setting off early on Friday morning, the children arrived at Hunstanton Sea Life Centre, where they listened to a talk on the human impact on marine ecosystems and ways individuals can contribute to ocean conservation. The talk focused on the detrimental effect of pollution and overfishing on the fragile communities in the oceans.
I learnt a good fact about Inca terns, a black bird with a long orange beak with a white feathery moustache- the longer the moustache the happier the bird!
The children completed worksheets whilst exploring the aquatic exhibits, with highlights including the penguin feeding and the hands-on experience of stroking a starfish in the touch tank. They even got close to a large sea-turtle called Ernie.
The best part is that I could see through a big hole that the otters were taking a bath.
Before returning to Cambridge for the end of the school day, they seized the opportunity to unwind with a refreshing beach run, taking full advantage of the bright spring sunshine. The excursion illuminated the subject they had chosen to explore for their child-led topic this term.