Curious About Nature

In this episode of the Curious About Nature podcast, host Rachel Mills interviews Nicola Everitt, founder of Rockpool School. Nicola, a marine biologist, shares her journey from a childhood fascination with the sea to establishing a business dedicated to marine education. She discusses the importance of connecting children with nature, the impact of climate change on marine life, and her experiences working with various age groups. Nicola also offers practical tips for rockpooling and emphasises responsible exploration. The episode highlights the significance of outdoor learning and Nicola's vision to make marine biology accessible to all, fostering a deeper appreciation for marine ecosystems.

Nicola Everitt:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rockpoolschool

Curious About Nature is hosted by Buttercup Learning Founder, Rachel Mills.

Website: https://buttercuplearning.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buttercup_hello/

Email: [email protected]

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Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and UK nature activity boxes that get digital kids outdoors.

There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.

What we discussed in the episode

Inspiration behind Rockpool School (00:01:00) Nicola's childhood love for the sea, her dream of becoming a marine biologist, and the lack of marine-related activities and resources during her upbringing.

Awareness of environmental issues (00:02:50) Nicola's growing awareness of environmental issues, including endangered species, climate change, and pollution, as she got older.

Early interest in marine biology (00:03:35) Nicola's early interest in marine biology, her fascination with dolphins, and the importance of getting children interested in marine life.

Activities and resources for exploring marine life (00:05:44) Recommended activities for parents and children to explore marine life, including rockpooling, beachcombing, and litter picking.

Ethical rockpooling (00:06:40) Guidelines for ethical rockpooling to avoid disrupting the environment or marine life.

Favourite marine life and facts (00:07:50) Discussion of Nicola's favourite marine life, including crabs and blue whales, and interesting facts about sea anemones.

Sessions with different age groups (00:09:00) Nicola's experiences conducting sessions with nursery kids, care home residents, and the general public, and the rewarding outcomes of these sessions.

Favourite sessions and discoveries (00:10:44) Memorable sessions and discoveries during rockpooling sessions, including finding a new species of fish and heartwarming interactions with care home residents.

Family involvement and business development (00:15:29) Involvement of Nicola's family in Rockpool School sessions and her plans for the future development of the business.

Recommended books and resources (00:13:18) Recommended books and resources for learning about British marine animals and activities related to rockpooling.

Future of Rockpool School (00:19:00) Nicola's mission to make marine life accessible to children and her hope for the next generation to appreciate and protect the marine environment.

Hope for the future and environmental awareness (00:20:12) Nicola's optimism about the next generation's awareness of environmental issues and their potential to bring about positive change.

Inland School Visits (00:21:44) Nicola discusses the impact of Rockpool School's visits to inland schools and the need for hands-on experiences.

Positive Influence (00:22:26) The positive impact of Rockpool School on families and the increasing popularity of outdoor education.

Online Presence and Workshops (00:24:33) Rockpool School's presence on social media platforms and the availability of workshops and sessions.

Summer Activities (00:25:33) Upcoming summer activities, including sessions at play cafes and visits to schools, and the enjoyment of all activities.

Marine Life Facts (00:26:29) Engaging children with interesting and slightly gross marine life facts, particularly about starfish.