Coastal Ambassadors

The Coastal Ambassadors program encourages students to become ambassadors of the ocean and the environment in their local communities.

Students increase their knowledge of environmental issues while developing their leadership, communication and teamwork skills. Each student takes the lessons learnt from the program back to their school and local community.

The program has two components. Section one is a four day camp held at Phillip Island Nature Parks working with rangers and researchers. Topics covered in the program include marine biology with a focus on little penguins and Australian fur seals, oceanography, sustainability and participating in environmental work. Students also participate in outdoor activities such as surfing and bike riding. Section two involves students undertaking an environmental project at their school or local community. Students will present this work during a showcase held later in the year.      

Stemming from the success of the Year 9 Coastal Ambassadors, the Young Environmental Leaders program is designed for enthusiastic Grade 5 and 6 students who are in leadership positions within their school. 

Program Aims:

• To increase student knowledge on current environmental issues.
• To develop student’s interpersonal and intrapersonal skills for increased involvement in leadership roles including communication, negotiation, team work and reflection.  
• To empower young leaders to take environmental and community based action.
• To create a network of young environmental leaders from across Gippsland and Victoria.

2013 Program Dates 

Day 1: March 13th or March 20th

Day 2: September 11th 

Nominate students now!!

Inspire your students to get involved!

This professional development opportunity allows teachers from all disciplines, whether primary or secondary, student teacher or CRT, to learn more about the Coastal Ambassadors program and the Phillip Island environments. This program will allow teachers to achieve at least 20 hours of their VIT external professional development.

What does the program include?

Teachers will participate in workshops from a leading little penguin and seal researcher, undertake environmental hands on activities, discover interactive team building programs, participate in a surfing clinic, cruise to Seal Rocks, try the Summerlands bike challenge and take an evening visit to the Penguin Parade. 

When: 2013 dates TBC