Our OCT Learning Team loves welcoming home-educated children to the Aquarium, inspiring them to connect with our Ocean. Whether you have budding marine biologists or a child curious about our amazing Blue Planet, our OCT Learning Programme has something for everyone!
Home Education Offerings
Home Education Wednesdays
Every Wednesday during term-time, Home Educated children between the ages of 4-16 can visit the Aquarium for just £5.50 each, with 1 free adult per family*. Book to arrive between the hours of 10am-2pm to get this special rate.
The Aquarium closes at 5pm and you are free to explore for as long as you like! You will have access to all our wonderful exhibits and are welcome to attend our daily feeds and talks throughout the day.
Deep Dive Workshops
Join us on the last Wednesday of each month during term-time for an exciting Ocean-themed workshop, perfect for children eager to explore our amazing Blue Planet. Each 90 minute session is aligned with the national curriculum and emphasizes Ocean conservation. You may enter the aquarium any time from 10am and meet some of the 5000 animals that live here before the workshop. The cost is £7.00 for participating children, booking is essential.*
Please click here for a full overview of our Deep Dive workshops!
Book a bespoke visit!
Home Educators regularly like to group together with other Home Educators to make a unique booking with us. Often, they opt for a self-led visit with a workshop of their choice, for £7.00 per learner. We advise that you bring at least 12 learners to make your visit worthwhile!
If you wish to find out more, please email us at learning@oceanconservationtrust.org or call us on 01752 275233.
If you would like to stay informed about any upcoming learning opportunities for Home Educated learners, please sign up to our mailing list below.
*Terms and Conditions:
- Home Education sessions run during term-time only.
- 1 supervising adult per family may enter for free.
- Our schools programme exists to support educational school visits to the National Marine Aquarium, it was set up to provide an affordable way for all children to experience the wonders of the Ocean. Therefore, we do not accept annual passes for children or adults as valid entry tickets when visiting as part of an educational visit. This is because school visitors also receive a number of additional support services; discounted entry rates, access to private spaces, lunchrooms, bag storage, dedicated aquarium guides, bespoke programmes (depending on the package) etc.
- Deep Dive Workshop tickets include entry to the NMA.
- Our standard £5.50 Home Educators entry ticket will apply for Home Educated children visiting the NMA but not wishing to participate in our Deep Dive Workshop.
- Under 3s may enter for free.