The maritime issues class at La Salvetat-Saint-Gilles College connects Toulouse to the Ocean. Twenty-five students conducted scientific measurements in La Palme and Leucate on Friday, supported by researchers and the Oceanographic Institute of Monaco.
The Haute-Garonne region is not only looking up to the sky, as one might think. The existence of a “maritime issues class” at La Salvetat-Saint-Gilles College in the Toulouse region is proof of this. And the presence of 25 middle school students for a scientific mission this Friday in La Palme and Leucate demonstrates it.
The educational team has been promoting awareness of ocean conservation for 4 years, unique to the Toulouse academy. Through the Ocean project class, students are empowered to address major environmental issues related to ocean protection through various activities throughout the year. This project-based teaching approach allows students to reflect, create, and develop a sense of environmental responsibility to become ocean protectors.
Supervised by high-level scientists, the mission of the day focused on understanding land-sea interactions. Water resurgences in La Palme and Leucate provided a valuable learning experience for the students who diligently measured salinity, acidity, and water flow, along with observing local flora and fauna. This engagement delights Pieter Van Beek, who sees these students as potential future research scholars.
Delphine Desmartin, a teacher at the college, is pleased to see today’s adolescents are aware of regulations and sensitive to climate and environmental challenges. The work produced by the students reflects their commitment to environmental causes.
Collaboration with essential partners like the Oceanographic Institute of Monaco, through Oeano Pour Tous, is crucial for the maritime issues class to continue and deepen their educational journey. This partnership aims to facilitate ocean access for young people who may not have had the opportunity otherwise. The involvement of families and the use of the Pass Culture program, which allowed visits to Narbo Via and the Canet Aquarium, made this educational trip possible. In the future, additional partners will be welcomed to further support these initiatives.
