Kaingaroa School has recently experienced the incredible benefits of collaborating with the Experiencing Marine Reserves (EMR) programme not just once, but on two separate occasions, leaving a lasting impact on their students' education and wellbeing. Through these awesome adventures, EMR has proven to be an invaluable partner in enriching the school's curriculum and providing unforgettable learning opportunities.

The first excursion took place at Maitai Bay, Northland where the students eagerly participated in a snorkelling expedition led by EMR who have a well organised trailer full of snorkelling/diving equipment for every size child and adult. This organisation is renowned for its dedication to marine conservation, enabling people to explore diverse marine ecosystems while developing essential water safety skills. Under the expert guidance of EMR educators, the children were immersed in an engaging and fun-filled experience, boosting their confidence and fostering a deep appreciation for the wonders of the underwater world. The day unfolded with the students closely observing sea life and receiving valuable educational insights from their knowledgeable guides.

Not only did the students get to explore the marine environment, but they also did a beach clean-up which highlighted the pressing issue of plastic pollution as the students discovered numerous plastics littering the beach and soft sand. This activity instils a sense of responsibility and sparked conversations about the importance of preserving our environment and keeping our oceans safe.

With the success of the initial collaboration, EMR joined forces with Kaingaroa School once again, this time at Poor Knights Island on the Tutukaka coast during the school's camp. The students were thrilled to have EMR accompany them on a mesmerizing boat and diving experience, creating memories that will last a lifetime. The additional support provided by EMR in terms of supervision and expertise further enhanced the overall enjoyment and safety of the trip. By integrating marine education with real-world experiences, EMR and Kaingaroa School empowered students to dive deeper into their understanding of marine ecosystems, fostering a genuine connection with nature.

The impact of EMR's participation went beyond students and resonated with the teachers and parents as well. With EMR's additional supervision and expertise, parents, whānau, and teachers were able to feel relaxed and fully engage with the students, amplifying the benefits of the journey for everyone involved.

The collaborative partnership between Kaingaroa School and EMR highlights the importance of working with external organizations to enhance educational experiences. Through EMR's expertise and resources, the school gained access to specialised knowledge and opportunities that would have otherwise been challenging to provide independently.

As the students of Kaingaroa School returned home, they carried with them not only cherished memories but also a greater understanding of marine conservation and the importance of protecting our environment. The impact of EMR's involvement on two separate occasions has planted an important seed on their educational journey, equipping them with valuable learnings. This outstanding programme has provided Kaingaroa School and many other schools across New Zealand with an experience that they may not have ever had, inspiring future generations to become passionate advocates for the wellbeing of our oceans and planet.