EDUCATION
School Trips
CCMI’s 3-day Marine Ecology Courses are open to both primary and secondary schools in the Cayman Islands. The team at CCMI tailor course content to complement the curriculum and make the most of the student’s time with CCMI. The course introduces students to tropical marine biology, ecology and conservation at one of the world’s most beautiful coral reefs. CCMI’s aim is to change students’ attitudes and behaviors about the ocean whilst having fun exploring Little Cayman. Activities typically include snorkeling, species identification, beach cleanup, field trip to the National Trust Booby Pond, guided iguana tour, lionfish dissections and a range of interactive classes.
Scholarship-Winning Video Submission
COST
CI $375 per student
CI $250 per instructor
Scholarship-Funded MEC (BODA Charitable Star Trust)
Thanks to the BODA Charitable Star Trust, CCMI is able to award two classes or after school clubs from government primary schools in Cayman full scholarships to support the entire experience, airfare included. Classes or clubs from years 5 and 6 are invited to apply. Since 2017, CCMI has been able to support circa 50 students and their teachers/chaperones every year due to the support of the BODA Charitable Star Trust. To determine which two classes are selected, CCMI requests educators complete a brief application located HERE. We have, over the years, received a range of excellent entries including persuasive letters, interactive presentations, class beach cleans, artwork and much more! A winning example (posted on this page and on CCMI’s YouTube channel) from 2021 was a video in which students from West End Primary School performed a song which they composed about CCMI. The 2022 scholarship application deadline has now closed. Further programme information and scholarship application form are available HERE.
“I’m always impressed with the level of engagement of students at all learning levels and the way the presenters improve the content and activities each year.”
Karlene Buckle, Cayman Prep Grade 6 Teacher, Cayman Islands“The activities were varied, and covered many of our curriculum outcomes. The variety of unique research opportunities was excellent.”
James McGill, St Ignatius Grade 12 Teacher, Cayman Islands“I had so much fun snorkeling and learning about the reef. I can’t wait to come back to CCMI again someday soon!”
Trevon F., Year 6, George Town Primary School 2018, Cayman Islands“It was fun being with my classmates, learning about marine life and how we can protect it.”
Kai R.,Year 6, West End Primary School 2018, Cayman Islands
CCMI is proud to provides scholarship opportunities for government school groups in the Cayman Islands thanks to the generous support of our sponsor, BODA Charitable Star Trust. To sponsor amazing opportunities at CCMI, please click HERE.
For more information about the Marine Ecology Course, contact CCMI’s education team directly via email.
All CCMI staff, interns, and volunteers who work with minors have been trained and certified through the Cayman Islands Government – Child Protection Unit Training, Second Step: Child Safeguarding Programme and/or Darkness to Light – Child Safeguard Training.
This programme outlines the responsibilities of the Cayman Islands Government and public officials to protect and safeguard children and young people. A Safe Environment Policy helps prevent situations in which children are at an increased risk for abuse because of the physical characteristics of a building. A safe environment is one that increases visibility, ensures adequate supervision and controls access. The Ministry of Education is committed to working with the Department of Education Services (DES) and schools or education institutions to develop welcoming, supportive and inclusive learning environments that promote the well-being of all students and staff. The Ministry of Education wishes to promote a ‘spirit’ of child protection and establish the baseline expectation of supervision of students. The Safe Environment Policy dictates what the responsibilities of staff are in protecting and perpetuating a safe environment for students.
All CCMI staff, interns, and volunteers who work with minors have also been trained and certified in First-Aid, CPR & AED delivery, and water-related emergency management.
For further information on CCMI education staff, interns, or volunteer training please contact our education team: education@reefresearch.org
