Marine Institute launches exclusive 20th Anniversary Explorers Education Ocean Modules for inland counties

The Marine Institute is proud to announce a landmark expansion of its Explorers Education Programme, offering inland primary schools a unique opportunity to become "Ocean Ambassadors." To celebrate the programme’s 20th anniversary, 13 exclusive marine STEM and ocean literacy modules have been allocated to schools in non-coastal counties, proving that geographical distance is no barrier to learning and to protecting Ireland’s marine heritage. 

Historically focused on coastal communities, this initiative opens doors for schools in Cavan, Carlow, Kilkenny, Kildare, Laois, Longford, Monaghan, Offaly, Roscommon, Tipperary, and Westmeath.  The expansion represents a major milestone for the Explorers Programme by extending its reach to every corner of the country, officially establishing a nationwide network of ocean ambassadors. 

A Lasting Ocean Legacy 

"While our Explorers team typically delivers the programme to more than 13,000 children in coastal schools annually, our 20th anniversary is the perfect milestone to bring that marine magic inland," said Patricia Orme, Director of Corporate Services at the Marine Institute. "As an island nation, protecting Ireland’s vast marine biodiversity is a shared national responsibility." 

A centrepiece of this anniversary is the creation of the "Explorers Deep Dive” Commemorative e-book. This digital publication will feature a dedicated chapter for inland schools, showcasing student artwork, stories, and poems. Additionally, each participating class will receive a commemorative e-certificate to display their achievement and class project. 

From the Heart of Ireland to the Deep Sea 

The programme utilises high-energy, interactive online modules—ranging from the study of sea turtles to sharks in Irish waters—to turn classrooms into creative hubs. Leading the inland modules is Dr. Nóirín Burke of the Explorers Education Programme, who draws on her own roots in County Tipperary to inspire students. "Growing up inland, my passion for the sea began with family trips to the coast, which eventually led me to a career in marine science," Dr. Burke shared. "I want students to realise that you don’t have to live by the shore to be connected to the ocean. By sharing these 'ocean adventures' and resources, I hope to pass the banner on to a new generation of ambassadors."

Empowering Teachers with Specialised Resources 

The modules are designed to support curriculum delivery through a blended learning suite that integrates STEM, Literacy, Geography, and the Arts. Participating teachers receive: 

• Physical Ocean Kits: Tangible classroom materials, including posters and workbooks. 

• Interactive Digital Media: Access to specialized online workshops and quizzes. 

• Curriculum-Linked Content: Ready-to-use lesson plans focused on Marine Biodiversity. 

• European Blue School Pathway: Completing an Explorers class project module, teachers and their class can take the first step towards applying for the prestigious European Blue School Certificate. 

How to Apply 

Teachers are encouraged to act quickly to secure their class in this historic anniversary celebration. For more information and to apply, contact: noirin@nationalaquarium.ie. 

ENDS 

 

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