(23/05/2011)
Marine experts from Weymouth Sea Life Park are taking a chunk of coastline into Dorset school rooms.
It’s all part of a drive to teach children how to explore rockpools without endangering themselves, or harming the creatures they find.
So far pupils from Shaftesbury, Christchurch, Bridport and Bincombe Valley primary schools have enjoyed the opportunity to touch starfish and handle common shore crabs without leaving their classrooms.
“Our mobile rockpool has a life support system to keep the creatures in peak health,” said Guest Experience Manager Richard Dilly.
“Our aquarists talk to the children about shoreline creatures, how they survive in such a harsh environment, and how to explore for themselves without harming the environment.
“The kids love it and their teachers seem equally pleased, so we’re expecting to visit many more classrooms in coming weeks.”
Bournemouth’s Winton Primary, Chickerell Primary and Sherbourne Primary are all due visits in the next couple of weeks.