Smart Living: Inspiring the youth of today to live smart for the youth of tomorrow

In an age where climate change, water scarcity, and energy challenges dominate global conversations, there's never been a more important time to equip the next generation with the tools to build a more sustainable future. The Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation is stepping up to this challenge with its engaging and educational Smart Living Outreach programme, aimed specifically at Grade 6 and 7 learners.

What is Smart Living?

Smart Living is more than a buzzword - it’s a way of thinking and living that encourages us to make better choices for the environment. The Smart Living Outreach programme teaches learners about water, energy, waste, and the environment, all aligned with the CAPS curriculum. Delivered in both English and Afrikaans, the programme ensures inclusivity and accessibility for all learners in Cape Town. You can check out our upcoming Smart Living course here.

Bringing learning to life

Imagine your school day beginning with a burst of colour and curiosity as Teacher Anzio arrives in the Smart Living van, ready to spark imaginations and inspire change. Through tech-savvy presentations and interactive learning, learners explore how electricity is generated, how to calculate their water footprint, and the importance of Cape Town’s unique biodiversity.

But this isn’t just any outreach vehicle - we gave it the Pimp My Ride treatment! Our Smart Living van recently underwent some exciting renovations, and it's now more eye-catching than ever. With its vibrant blue colour and engaging visuals, the van is impossible to miss. It's not just a mode of transport - it's a moving classroom designed to attract attention and curiosity. When you see the blue van pulling up, you know something exciting is about to happen.

Want the Smart Living van to visit your school? Our outreach teachers are ready to inspire curious minds across Cape Town. Don’t miss your chance to experience this unforgettable visit - book your school's spot today!

Coming soon: Smart Living course for Grade 7s on Saturdays

From 30 June to 4 July, Grade 7 learners have the unique opportunity to take part in the Smart Living Coursewiththe Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation's Ocean Campus. Held every Saturday, this dynamic and captivating course goes deeper into the environmental themes introduced in the outreach programme.

The course features both classroom-based activities and outdoor adventures, including a crowd-favourite field trip to a local waste management facility. Here, learners see firsthand the impact of waste on the planet and how recycling and waste reduction play vital roles in conservation.

By the end of the course, students will walk away not only with knowledge but with the passion and confidence to become changemakers in their communities. They are encouraged to support environmental causes and share what they’ve learned with others, because real change starts with education.

Know a Grade 7 learner who’d love to be a part of this? Explore more details here or email courses@aquariumfoundation.org.za.

Inspiring the future, today

The Smart Living initiative is more than just an educational programme—it's an investment in the future. By inspiring today's youth to live smart, we're planting the seeds for a generation that will protect and preserve our planet for those who come after them.

Let’s empower our children with the knowledge and values they need to build a sustainable tomorrow—because the future begins with them.