Fun program teaches pupils about the ocean

BARWON Heads Primary School pupils have been learning about their local beach and river during a fun and informative program.

The children, from grades 3 to 6, took part in an Ocean Awareness Program on Barwon Heads River.

Along with surf sessions, areas covered were ocean rips and currents, river safety, tides and water movement, basic first aid and rescues, open water swimming in beach and river, and enjoyment and looking after the local environment.

Grade five teacher Luke Wierzbowski said living so close to the ocean and river, the program had great real-world application and was very important for the kids’ safety in the water.

“The Surf Sessions instructors facilitate fun lessons that teach about the risks and safety strategies that can sometimes be overlooked or just not common knowledge for pupils,” he said.

“The kids really enjoy it and certainly don’t complain about having a swim during school hours.”