Outreach

With our seas facing ever worsening threats, it’s now more important than ever for people to be aware of these issues and feel a connection to the environment, even when it’s not on their doorstep.

The job of the Outreach team is to bring the sea to those that aren’t in the position to access it themselves – to provide an opportunity for everyone to engage with the Scottish marine environment and access marine educational resources wherever, and whoever, they might be.

We achieve this by building on the high-quality learning experiences already delivered at the centre and spreading them across Scotland.Wherever we go, we boost awareness of our wonderful marine life, increase the appreciation of its importance, and inspire as many people as we can to protect it.

Outreach opportunities for various audiences include:

• ‘Scotland's Marine Superstars’ - Primary school workshop - This curriculum-linked, interactive session will introduce children to some of Scotland’s most iconic, beautiful, and important marine species. A session that aims to raise awareness of our amazing marine life and inspire children to protect it. Can be pitched at all Primary year groups (P1s-P7s). Suitable for large groups and assemblies.
• Outdoor learning – Guided sessions for groups on a coast near you! Activities we can provide (shore type dependant) include rockpooling, shell spotting, litter picking, beach art and bird watching. Suitable for adults and children ages 5+.
• Coastal Wellbeing Sessions - Take a moment to enjoy the sights, sounds and feel of the seaside with an interactive wellbeing walk. Take part in activities designed to allow you to switch off from every day life, unwind and enjoy your surroundings. Suitable for ages 16+.
• Community talks and events - Ever wanted to know more about marine life and the work of the Scottish Seabird Centre? Here's your chance! A friendly member of the outreach team can travel to you and provide an hour long session (45 minute talk followed by a 15 minute Q&A) on a marine topic of your choosing. Suitable for ages 16+.
• Science Festivals & Public events – Watch out for our stand of props, shells, crafts, and activities at community events and science festivals. So far the team has travelled to places such as Midlothian, Dundee, and even Orkney!

(c) Emma Clements

For those who are too far away or don't have access to the coast, we also have plenty of digital resources and sessions suitable for home-based and clasroom-based learning! These are:

• Zoom workshop: "Scottish Marine Life, from seals to seabirds" – Be transported to the seaside with this online talk from our staff containing fun facts, photos and videos of some of the amazing animals that live along our beautiful coastline. Suitable for ages 6+.
• Dive In! packs – downloadable packs of activities, games, crafts and experiments for young people to do at home or in school. Click here to visit our wildlife guides and resources page.
• Educational videos – explore a variety of wildlife videos, interviews and science talks on our Youtube Channel. Click here to head to our YouTube Channel.