We’re inviting grade 10s to apply for the first High School Volunteer Course of 2017. This is an amazing opportunity for teens interested in marine sciences and the environment to wet their feet at the Aquarium. The first High School Volunteer Course of the year, sponsored by I&J, is happening from 1 to 7 April 2017 and the application deadline is 3 March 2017. 

Formerly known as the Young Biologist (YB) course, one of our most popular enrichment courses through the Environmental Education Centre’s newly revamped Marine Sciences Academy, the High School Volunteer Course is aimed at grade 10s who are passionate about the marine environment and committed to positive action.

Successful applicants will spend four days at the Two Oceans Aquarium covering theory vital for volunteering, initially as presenters at our Touch Pool & Microscope Exhibits.

From marine worms to the wondrous world of the sea star and sea urchins, the course covers the major groups of invertebrates found in our tidal pools around Cape Town. Participants will learn the difference between a bivalve and a winkle and how an octopus fits into that equation. Then they'll delive into the fascinating world of green, red and brown algae and learn how we use them on a daily basis.

The remaining three days of the course are spent at a local environmental education campsite, where participants will focus on practical course work and team building.

Upon the completion of the programme, the new candidates have the option of becoming volunteers at the Two Oceans Aquarium by completing a further module on a Saturday.

All participants are required to facilitate an environmental cleanup as well as an eco-activity at their respective schools.

An official graduation takes place six months after the completion of the course.

How to apply

The first High School Volunteer Course of the year is happening from 1 to 7 April 2017.

To apply, please contact Katja Rockstroh on education@aquarium.co.za for application forms or call 021 814 4555 for more information.

The application deadline is 3 March 2017.

A bright future

Some of our YBs have gone on to form the inspirational Two Oceans Aquarium SEA Team: a group of inspired young individuals committed to conserving, protecting and respecting the environment. They are tasked with organising two major beach clean-ups every year as well as one bigger project in pursuit of abundant and healthy oceans for life. These cool kids are our go-to marine warriors and our future leaders! It's just one of the many opportuntities that await graduates of the Marine Sciences Academy.