Students Visit Lobster Hatchery
Students on their first year of the Marine Science Foundation Degree at Falmouth Marine School visited the Lobster Hatchery in Padstow earlier this month.
The trip was organised by Tony Arden, a former student of the Marine School who is now back working as a trainee tutor, as part of the Benthic Biology module of the course which studies bottom dwelling creatures. The trip was also aimed at introducing the students to an important company in the marine science industry. The College encourages and helps all students to obtain work experiences places over the summer around the UK as well as in the local area.
The 20 students met at College at 10am on Tuesday 9th March for their briefing before making their way to Padstow, where Tony had booked a tour of the facilities and a lecture by General Manager, Dominic Boothroyd. The lecture gave an insight into the work of the Hatchery including aspects such as restocking and relocation of stocks around the word.
The group were then split in two, the first going on a tour of the front of the hatchery along with two technicians. The front section, which is the public education section shows the stock enrichment part of the Hatchery's work as well as displaying the work of the public volunteers.
The second group got a unique chance to witness the goings on in the back stage area, where all the different stages of the Hatchery's work are on display. The two groups then swapped activities before going into Padstow to enjoy the scenery and a pasty in the sunshine.
Steve Dome on his first year of the Marine Science Foundation Degree said: "It was a really enjoyable day and very informative and educational. It was also a nice day out as the weather was great. Padstow is really lovely."
Tony Arden, Trainee Teacher said: "Visits like these are very useful in showing the students what employment is available in this sector as well as having an impact on their educational experience at Falmouth Marine School."
Dave Linnell OBE, Principal of Cornwall College commented: "Studying at Falmouth Marine School gives students a great deal more learning time in the 'outdoor classroom'. It is visits such as these that greatly enhance their studies as well as giving them a real insight into the marine industry."