Dive into discovery: The Young Biologist Course inspiring tomorrow’s marine scientists

Are you in Grade 10 and fascinated by the ocean’s mysteries? Do you dream of exploring marine ecosystems, studying sea creatures, and helping protect our oceans? If so, the Young Biologist Course sponsored by De Beers is your perfect first dive into the world of marine science!

Our 8-day course, designed for passionate and environmentally conscious students, offers an immersive introduction to marine biology with hands-on learning and inspiring field trips. No prior academic experience is needed, just your curiosity, enthusiasm, and a love for the ocean.

Enriching minds: Learning meets adventure

The Young Biologist Course covers essential marine biology concepts, from ecosystems and conservation to marine invertebrates, kelp forests, and ocean biodiversity, while creating a sense of environmental responsibility.

The course kicks off with several days of theory at the Two Oceans Aquarium, where students attend classes from 08h00 to 14h30. Daily assessments help reinforce learning, while interactive experiences like guided tours and touch pool training make science come alive.

Learning by doing: Hands-on discovery

Students don’t just learn about the ocean; they live it. From kelp holdfast and fish dissections to oral presentations on touch pool species, learners experience marine science in action. The dissection sessions are a hit, allowing students to identify real organisms hidden in kelp and explore their adaptations up close.

The learners will go on a snorkelling excursion, and students get briefed by the Aquarium's PADI Dive School, preparing them for safe and exciting underwater exploration.

Into the blue: Camp at Water’s Edge

After the theory section, students will head to Water’s Edge campsite in Simon’s Town for the practical leg of the course. Here, learning becomes an adventure with:

• Rocky shore exploration at Dalebrook Tidal Pool
• Microplastics sampling and data presentations
• Snorkelling at Windmill Beach (equipment sponsored and guided by the Two Oceans Aquarium Dive School)
• Penguin sighting across Boulders Beach
• Logo design competition inspired by environmental campaigns

The camp also features creative team-building activities, from beach races and human pyramids to building sand penguins, all helping build camaraderie and communication.

Pathways to purpose: Careers in marine science

Throughout the course, students get the opportunity to meet marine professionals and ask questions about careers in oceanography, marine biology, conservation, and more. These conversations help students envision their future paths in environmental fields.

Real impact: Becoming ocean stewards

The Young Biologist experience doesn’t end when the camp is over. Students can volunteer at the Two Oceans Aquarium, beginning as presenters at the Microscope and Touch Pool Exhibits.

At the end of the course, there is a graduation where students are required to design and lead their own beach cleanup projects, taking full responsibility for promotion, logistics, and data collection. The results from the previous learners of the course were over 1 000 pieces of plastic removed from the environment, making a real impact in their communities.

Celebrating achievements: Graduation and beyond

After completing the course, students gather for an official graduation ceremony. The previous class achieved an impressive average academic aggregate of 75.3%, with the top student earning 93%. 35 graduates chose to continue volunteering, with the most dedicated contributing over 45 hours of service to the Aquarium.

Here’s what some of our Young Biologists had to say:

“The theory courses were very informative and enjoyable. I was exposed to many different areas of work and was able to ask questions to the volunteers and educators about their work and studies. If I had a question, they had an answer.”

“I really enjoyed the teacher (Whitney), and the volunteers were really kind and sweet”

“It was brilliant. Thank you so much for this opportunity, and continue to encourage the next generation.”

“Overall, the camp was the best. I enjoyed the activities and learning new things, and meeting new people, so thank you for the opportunity to do so."

“I believe the Young Biologist course achieved its goals. It provided a deeper appreciation of the complexity of ocean life. By exposing participants to fundamental concepts of marine science, research methods, and current challenges in ocean conservation, the course successfully introduced learners to this field, sparking interest for further exploration. The course was interactive, with opportunities for learners to ask questions and discuss concepts in-depth. It helped address individual curiosities, making the experience more personal and informative.”

“Yes, this was definitely achieved as my knowledge about the ocean has broadened, what the subject really means and what we can offer it and also experiences what we learnt in person, not only in the Aquarium but on this camp.”

Looking ahead

The Young Biologist Course does more than educate; it inspires, ignites curiosity, builds confidence, and empowers students to become ambassadors for our oceans.

Are you ready to dive in?

Sign up for the course and join us in protecting our blue planet, one wave at a time. For more information, visit our website or contact the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation.