Marine life workshops: Living Coasts in Torquay

Itinerary: Ocean Plastics and Penguins
Provider: Living Coasts, Torquay
Subjects: Geography, Science and Citizenship
KS: 1-4

Dedicated to the conservation of marine and coastal environments, Living Coasts provides an experience like no other. A whole host of coastal creatures, alongside regular talks and feeds, provide an inspiring insight into life on the shoreline for all ages. Specialist workshops on key curriculum topics ensure your visit provides a valuable learning experience in a unique setting.

10:00am: Arrive at Living Coasts, next to Torquay harbour. Coaches can drop groups right on the quayside, so there are no roads to cross. An education officer will meet you at reception and secure bag storage is available if required.

10:30am: Penguin breakfast! Listen to a fun, educational talk as keepers feed our 80 penguins - many of which will come out on the deck right next to pupils, offering a fantastic up-close encounter.

11:00am: Otters, fur seals, seabirds and waders all await as your tour continues. The animals live in spacious enclosures that allow you to experience what it would be like to see them in the wild.

11:45am: Descend to the lower floor aquarium to see seahorses, stingrays, octopus and more. Enjoy underwater views of our penguins and fur seals as they dive and play. Their streamlined forms and other adaptations are easy to appreciate as they speed through the water.

12:30pm: Enjoy your packed lunch in our function room (with amazing views across Torbay), or out on the site with a view of the animals.

1:00pm: Take part in the Plastic Oceans workshop. Pupils investigate the problem of plastic litter in the marine environment – sorting through real beach-found plastic litter from a beach clean in Devon, and hunting for nurdles in a fun two minute challenge. This session helps pupils understand one of the biggest issues in ocean conservation first hand, and shows them how they can join us in being part of the solution and making a difference. You might even decide to follow up the session with a school beach clean closer to home.

2:00pm: Time for a final look around, or maybe a chance to hand-feed the Inca terns. These elegant seabirds, with incredible moustaches, will pluck a (sustainably sourced) sardine from your fingers as they whizz past.

2.30pm: Meet your coach back on the quayside or indulge your group with a brief diversion to neighbouring Beacon Cove or around the marina.

The dedicated team will help you plan a visit that will engage, enthuse, and empower your pupils regardless of age, ability or subject. From plastic pollution to amazing adaptations, discover life in our oceans and bring the broader curriculum to life.