Ocean Explorers take action and appeal for support

Plastic Free North Devon’s (PFND’s) flagship education programme, the Ocean Explorer Academy (OEA), triples in size to include Braunton and Barnstaple school students.

The Ocean Explorer Academy programme was started in 2021 by PFND. Students on the programme experience an outdoor classroom where they are immersed in nature, explore, learn more about the environment and take action to protect it.

Since January 2023, the OEA has delivered 34 sessions to 96 students, providing more than 230 hours of volunteer service to local conservation organisations. Students have learned new skills, used power tools and saws, taken part in scientific surveys and contributed to positive climate action.

They have worked with experts from National Trust North Devon, Braunton Countryside Centre, Ruda Holiday Park Croyde, North Hole Farm, the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), Ilfracombe Aquarium, Coastwise and the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and the North Devon UNESCO Biosphere.

Explorer students have beachcombed, waded in rockpools, explored woodlands, seen organic farming in action, caught insects on coastline hilltops and even ventured onto the sea on stand up paddleboards. The most dedicated students recently took the trip of a lifetime to snorkel with seals at Lundy Island, the UK’s first Marine Conservation Zone.

Inspired by the programme, students have independently upcycled tent waste from local campsites, started community litter picking groups, created PowerPoint presentations to educate others and received headmaster awards for their efforts. Some have even joined youth working groups to consult with the North Devon UNESCO Biosphere on their future project plans.

Plastic Free North Devon’s Education Coordinator, spoke about the progress of the Ocean Explorer Academy: “PFND was approached by a local school, asking for support in accessing education in nature. Long-term PFND volunteer Andy Clee created a varied set of fun sessions that allow students the opportunity to explore and connect with nature. As a passionate educator and marine conservationist, it is wonderful to be involved in formalising and growing this brilliant, vital programme. We provide schools with a dynamic, curriculum-linked experience that empowers students to become proactive, engaged planet-saving superheroes.”

Students, parents and teachers all value the programme:

• “I haven't seen my daughter so passionate about something in a long time. She also won the headteacher’s award this year for her efforts, she is over the moon. I am incredibly proud of her and very grateful to you all.” Parent
• “We have so many students who want to attend that we have a waiting list and reserves list” teacher of participating school.
• “Ocean Explorers is really important - it teaches you how to make a difference, gives you loads of opportunities and helps you get into volunteering in nature.” student
• “It's one of the best choices I have made.” student

Beyond the term-long programme, students continue being involved with OEA through family-friendly OEA sessions online and in person with the PFND team and local conservation organisations. The OEA is running legacy sessions in the summer holiday and will recommence with school sessions in September.

Claire Moodie, Plastic Free North Devon CEO added “I am so blown away to see and hear the difference this program is making to some of our young people's lives. Opening doors to careers, exploring places they have been to, deeply connecting with nature, building confidence and connecting with their peers are all key to helping our young people flourish whilst maintaining and growing their respect and understanding for the very thing their existence depends on; a healthy and functioning planet.’’

PFND is currently looking for funding to help sustain and develop the 2023 programme and beyond, including support to help purchase a 9 seater vehicle to help us transport young people involved in this programme. Transport limitations within schools and individual families are a consistent limiting factor at the moment and a vehicle would be transformative with regards to our impact. Please get in touch if you think you can help.

For further information, to learn how you can get involved as an OEA volunteer or get it into your local school, please contact info@plasticfreenorthdevon.org.