Wester Ross pupils swap classroom for yacht
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PUPILS from Wester Ross will enjoy lessons outdoors this week when they join the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust (HWDT) on board their special research yacht, Silurian.
Throughout the week the Silurian will become a floating classroom, hosting primary schools from across Lochalsh.
Pupils will have a chance to actively explore the yacht, learn about marine mammals and discover what life is like on board as a marine scientist.
Sessions have been designed to inspire students, spark interest in the marine environment and help inform the decision-makers of the future.
Pippa Garrard, the trust’s community engagement officer, said: "It’s vital to connect local children with their marine environment, while raising awareness of the opportunities available for those with an interest in marine conservation.
"This is particularly important when these children are growing up in an area where so many species of whales and dolphins are seen right on their doorstep."
There will also be a chance for local people to go on board and explore the yacht when she docks alongside the pontoons at Kyle of Lochalsh between 4pm and 6pm on Tuesday, April 25.
They will be able to meet the team, gain an insight into life on board and hear about the trust’s latest research findings.
Siobhan Moran, HWDTs engagement volunteer, said: "If you’ve seen Silurian passing and wondered what we do, join us aboard to say hello and find out more".
Thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery, the trust received £20,000 this year from People’s Local Trust to fund its new engagement project - Hebridean Marine Explorers. Also supported by the Robertson Trust, this project aims to provide schools across the west coast with new, immersive outdoor learning experiences, bringing the marine environment to life, and offering unique opportunities such as floating classrooms.
By visiting local communities and encouraging active participation in marine science, the trust hopes to connect people with their marine environment, fostering stewardship for the future.
Following their visit to Wester Ross, Silurian will return to sail the Hebrides, undertaking visual and acoustic research on whales, dolphins and porpoises.
It is part of HWDT’s long-term citizen science project, with data collected on board informing local and national conservation efforts.
These annual surveys depend on paying volunteers, trained by the team to monitor and become citizen scientists for the duration on their trip.
