Science Faculty – Declan Hoban
Marine Studies
Term 1 has been an exciting and productive start for our Marine Studies students! We’ve
combined classroom learning with outdoor, hands on experiences along our stunning Shire
coastline.
Our term began with Core 1: Safety, where students developed essential knowledge and
practical skills for working safely in aquatic environments. A highlight was achieving the
NSW Surf Life Saving Surf Survival Certification during a fantastic day at Cronulla. Students
demonstrated resilience and teamwork while practising surf awareness, rescue techniques,
and personal safety skills under ideal conditions.
With safety foundations established, we moved into the Snorkelling Introduction module.
Students have been building confidence and refining their snorkelling techniques in preparation for upcoming fieldwork at various sites across Cronulla.
The class’s commitment to environmental stewardship was evident through participation in Clean Up Australia Day. Our students worked along the stretch between Greenhills Beach and Wanda Beach, collecting significant amounts of plastic waste. This activity deepened their understanding of marine pollution, particularly the impact of microplastics on coastal ecosystems.
To finish the term, students are exploring the curious world of Marine Mammals. This module
includes an independent research project on a Marine Mammal of choice. This task has
strengthened the class’s scientific research, critical thinking, and presentation skills, with
students delivering engaging and informative presentations.
We’re looking forward to a return to an adventurous and exploratory Term 2.
Declan Hoban, Instructional Leader of Curriculum – Science