The Blue Cradle Foundation has launched its Blue Schools programme, bringing hands-on ocean literacy, marine science, and place-based learning to schools across Christchurch and Canterbury.

The programme is supported by the Tait Foundation, the core funder for Year One, investing in the development of Blue Schools’ online learning platform, programme delivery, and field trip components.

Blue Schools supports teachers and students to better understand the ocean systems that shape Aotearoa while connecting learning to local coastal environments, marine research, and real-world conservation practice. The programme combines classroom learning, digital resources, and experiential field trips delivered across the school year.

Participating classes are engaging in curriculum-aligned modules alongside one field trip per term, including visits to locations such as the Avon-Heathcote Estuary, regional research institutions, and community-led marine initiatives. A dedicated web platform provides teachers and students with ongoing access to learning materials, communication tools, and support from the Blue Cradle team.

James Nikitine, CEO and Founder of Blue Cradle, says the programme responds to growing demand from schools for deeper, place-based science learning.

“Christchurch is a coastal city, yet many young people have limited opportunities to connect with the ocean in meaningful ways. Blue Schools builds confidence, curiosity, and capability — giving students and teachers the tools to understand the marine environment and their role in caring for it.”

The programme begins with its first immersive learning experience at Tūranga during Seaweek, where participating students are visiting the Blue Cradle Immersive Lab as part of their initial field engagement. The experience is designed to build awareness, inspiration, and a sense of possibility at the very beginning of the programme, setting the tone for a year of inquiry and action.

The Tait Foundation was established in 1994 by Sir Angus Tait, founder of Tait Communications and one of New Zealand’s founding technology business leaders. The Foundation aims to help build pathways into STEM careers by empowering teachers and providing students with STEM opportunities.

“We believe both students and teachers are benefiting from this hands-on science learning. We are impressed with the depth of the programme and the longer-term partnership it offers participating schools.” – Tait Foundation Trustees

The Tait Foundation’s support enables Blue Cradle to establish the programme on strong STEM foundations, with a focus on quality delivery, teacher support, and robust evaluation in its first year. Blue Cradle is also seeking additional sponsors to support full delivery and expansion across the region.

Blue Cradle is an IUCN Member organisation founded in 2020, working across Aotearoa and the Pacific to advance ocean literacy and community-led marine regeneration through education, collaboration, and storytelling.

Contact:
James Nikitine
Founder, Blue Cradle Foundation
james@bluecradle.org

Katie Klingenberg
Trustee, Tait Foundation
katie@taitfoundation.nz