NPC SEA WORLD EDUCATION CENTRE
A division of the South African Association for Marine Biological Research
About
The ocean, undeniably our greatest natural resource, covers over 70% of
the Earth's surface. Unmatched in its intricacy, elegance and savagery,
this world, the last great frontier of our planet, houses a dynamic web
of life.
The ocean sustains many of our nutritional requirements, economic aspirations and spiritual, social 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 in danger of over-exploiting, and very close to destroying, our greatest resource.
The ocean sustains many of our nutritional requirements, economic aspirations and spiritual, social 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 in danger of over-exploiting, and 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.
Natal Portland Cement
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 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.
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 ad 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.
Every two to three years we undertake a selection process. The new volunteers undergo short marine biology and communications programmes ad 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.
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 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 Sea World Logo.
 
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