The National Marine Aquarium was the first in the UK to be set up solely for the purposes of Education, Conservation and Research. Our innovative and inspirational learning programme is delivered by a team of dedicated marine biologists, qualified teachers and resident artists. They aim to maintain a reputation for excellence in informal environmental education and bring the marine environment into the classroom.

“The project we were involved with was very well organised and implemented, as well as engaging for the pupils. It was a unique and inspirational opportunity for mixing science with media, which all pupils enjoyed.” Coombe Dean School, Plymouth

“The Aquarium offers a great versatility to meet a wealth of curriculum objectives and the children learn so much without really realising that they are learning.” Ford Primary School, Plymouth

The National Marine Aquarium is dedicated to raising awareness of the oceans, the challenges they face and the ways in which we can all help ensure they have a sustainable future. The exhibits offer an ideal environment for school groups to learn in a relaxed and fun atmosphere, whichever visit type you choose.

Interactive tours: Led by the learning team, the Aquarium visit is brought to life with a two hour guided tour. The tour is informal, learner centered and engaging for all ages while covering a number of key curriculum areas. Teachers can select from a range of topics provided on booking or create their own bespoke package of learning outcomes.

Explorer Visits: Alternatively, the needs of the group can still be catered for with a self-led aquarium visit. The group will have the freedom to explore the aquarium at a suitable pace while benefitting from the help of the host team who are on hand to answer any questions about the animals. Factsheets and other resources are available on request.

Workshops: Both the above visit types have the added option of a workshop to compliment the trip. These cover a range of topics from classification to water chemistry, dissection to plastic pollution.

Immersion days: These consist of a full day of activities and are designed to creatively challenge students and illustrate the importance of maths, science and media in the working world.

Outreach Programme: There is a fantastic range of outreach sessions available that can be delivered anywhere from your school hall to the classroom or even on a local beach. All sessions are designed around the REAL science and maths that go on behind the scenes at the aquarium and in the wider  marine world, so can provide compelling learning experiences for students of all ages.

Key information

• Over 10 years experience
• Learning Outside the Classroom quality badge holder
• Special rates for schools
• In-house visits and outreach programmes
• Cross-curricular programme, FS – KS4
• Single class or whole school event
• Free preliminary visit for teachers
• Pre-visit information with safety notes provided
• Loan boxes available
• New learning resource centre
• (including wet lab and media studio)
•  Highly professional team with CRB checks