MANY of us like to watch Blue Planet for sheer enjoyment in our leisure time, however lucky pupils at a school in Denbigh are set to learn about the wonders of the world's oceans and aquatic life in class.
Myddelton College will start a marine science A level which will see pupils learn about the ecosystems of oceans, coral reefs and the effect human activity has on aquatic life.
The unique course, which the school hopes will “prepare pupils for the global issues that face us in the 21st century”, has been offered by examination body Cambridge International since 2017 with the aim to “stimulate interest in, and care for, the local and global environment, and to understand the need for conservation”.
Modules include marine ecosystems and biodiversity, coral reefs and lagoons and marine conservation and ecotourism, as well as marine biotechnology.
Cambridge International says the course is also an ideal qualification for learners who want to study marine biology or environmental science at university.
The course was initiated at the school at a ceremony and talk held by Dr Michelle Haywood, marine consultant for the Isle of Man Government Department of Environment, and owner of a diving centre on the island.
Dr Haywood, who previously taught A level biology and environmental science at the University College Isle of Man and is now a private tutor, said: “There is a lot of awareness about plastic in oceans following Blue Planet.
“I shared my diving and scientific experience with the pupils because it is nice to hear from someone in the field and about the positive things going on, such as marine protected areas and beach clean-ups.
“The A level course is relatively unusual but it combines the traditional sciences of biology and chemistry, as well as geography, to provide a strong all-round course.
“The University of Bangor has one of the best marine biology courses in the country and it is lovely to think that this A level might lead to pupils studying there.
“The damage being caused in oceans is becoming more real and Blue Planet helped to bring these issues into people’s live a bit more.
“When I was these kids’ age I didn’t have half the awareness they had!”
Andy Allman, Myddelton College’s head of sixth form, said: “Our whole ethos and education platform at Myddelton is to prepare pupils for the global issues that face us in the 21st century.
“Having the opportunity to introduce new A levels with academic rigour such as marine science, as well also offering the traditional ones is one of our many strengths in the sixth form at Myddelton.”
Prof Tom Rippeth, admissions officer and lecturer at the University of Bangor's school of ocean sciences, said: “An A level in marine science will provide an excellent basis for students to study both oceanography and marine biology at Bangor University.
"The marine sector is one of the fastest growing sectors of the UK economy. There is a growing need for marine scientists, particularly in areas such as marine renewable energy and aquaculture.
"Ocean sciences degrees from Bangor provide our students with the skills to take on these jobs.
Prof Rippeth added: "Many of the UKs leading marine scientists are Bangor graduates.”
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