Tuesday, 01 July 2008

SEAS AROUND US PROJECT SUCCESS

 

Since 20 May, over 300 children from primary schools, nurseries and playgroups from all over Shetland accompanied by some 50 staff have visited the ‘Seas Around Us’ project at the NAFC Marine Centre. 

 

With two special open afternoons tying in with the RSPB Nature Week on 8 and 10 July and the ever-popular open day on 17 July still to come, this second year of the project is set to surpass all expectations.  All three open days are open to the general public.

 

Kenny Gifford is part of the team responsible for co-ordinating the initiative.  He said: “This year’s ‘Seas Around Project’ is once again proving an exciting attraction for school children and accompanying staff alike.  It really is heartening to see young children taking an interest in Shetland’s marine life and asking so many inquiring questions.

 

“I’m amazed at the numbers that have already passed through the wet room’s doors and we already know of around another 150 children booked to visit before the season ends.

 

“At a time when it is all to easy to settle in front of the television, computer games or the Internet – particularly with the weather we’ve been experiencing this summer – children may miss out on the real world out there.

 

“I hope this project can go some way to stimulating a lifelong interest in the marine life around us and, perhaps, even a career in marine science.”

 

The ‘Seas Around Us’ project was established to give school pupils an introduction to the sea creatures that can be found locally, as well as a better understanding of career opportunities in marine related industries.

 

Visits include a tour of the tanks in the wet room area where children can examine a wide range of marine species.  Students can also get up close with marine life under the microscope in the teaching laboratory.

 

The ‘Seas Around Us’ initiative was run as a pilot project last year.  It has been extended thanks to funding from Shetland Aquaculture Trust.

 

The public open afternoons tying in with RSPB Nature Week will be held on Tuesday 8 and Thursday 10 July from 2.00pm – 5.00pm.

 

The final public open day of the season will take place on Thursday 17 July from 10.00am – 12.30pm and 2.00pm – 4.30pm.

 

Further information from:

Kenny Gifford, NAFC Marine Centre, tel 01595 772408, email or visit www.nafc.ac.uk

Or, Louise Rosie, Shaw Marketing and Design Ltd, tel 01595 692465 or email