Welcome to the Education Centre

Welcome

The ocean, undeniably our greatest natural resource, covers over 70% of the Earth's surface.

The ocean is essential for food, our economy and leisure needs. Our well being is inextricably linked to the sea. Human activities have had a tremendous impact on the oceans and we are very close to destroying our greatest resource.

Objectives of the Centre:

• Stimulate awareness and appreciation of the marine environment using the live exhibits of the aquarium.
• Promote sustainable use of the marine environment.
• We also expose learners and teachers to the great variety of marine careers through courses run twice a year (See under Special Courses).
  

NPC CIMPOR supports marine education at uShaka Sea World

With 20 years experience in marine education, the Education Centre is now considered to be the finest of its kind in Africa. This is in large part due to the annual sponsorship of Natal Portland Cement whose funds are used for up to date equipment and our outreach programme. Natal Portland Cement’s staff chose marine education over a number of South Africa’s pressing environmental and social issues and we are privileged to be given their support.

Education Group Visits

Each year over 100 000 children and teachers are introduced to the sea in an exciting, 'hands-on' way that stimulates further thought and exploration. We are in a unique position to utilise the facilities of the uShaka Sea World Aquarium and Dolphinarium, as well as the expertise of the Oceanographic Research Institute, to provide exciting, curriculum-based workshops to learners, teachers and resource users from all sectors of the community.

For more information on courses, lessons and guidings please click here.

Teachers´ Workshops

Our teachers' workshops have enabled thousands of educators to become more competent and enthusiastic, through the inclusion of marine topics in their lessons. These workshops have proved to be invaluable to the teachers, many of whom, due to the legacy of the past, have not had access to proper teacher training. The workshops focus on marine topics and teaching practice, thereby building the capacity of teachers while simultaneously improving their knowledge and understanding of the sea and its importance to people.

Volunteer Guide Programme

We have a group of 40 carefully selected and well trained volunteers to assist in the operations of the Centre.

Every two to three years we undertake a selection process. The new volunteers undergo short marine biology and communications programmes and then write a knowledge test. This is followed by a period of shadowing longer serving volunteers and a number of training sessions over a six month period. They are once again assessed on their knowledge and ability to communicate with and control of groups. Once they have undertaken this gruelling probation period they are confirmed as guides. To find out when the next selection process is taking place, contact Portia on plephalia@seaworld.org.za

Aquarium Activities

We do not only focus on education groups but play a role in the enjoyment and learning experience of every person that visits uShaka Sea World. Our staff interact with guests daily through commentaries, the conservation corner in the aquarium and at the rock pools where guests can get close up to amazing sea creatures. Our staff are also available at all times to chat to guests in the aquarium. Look for the blue shirts with the uShaka Sea World Logo.