Marine Research

Marine Research Teacher Scholarship

Kim Beaton is a Science Teacher at our college who was awarded a six month scholarship through the Royal Society of Science for the Science Teaching Leadership Programme. The following are some of her experiences to date working at the Coastal Marine Field Station at Sulphur Point.

Heading off for some deep sea ‘drop camming’ action to observe the reef system off Motiti Island may sound more like a David Attenborough episode than a day’s work. However, for the scientists and researchers of the University of Waikato Coastal Marine Field Station this is just one of the many cutting edge environmental research projects they are currently undertaking in partnership with local iwi, council and community groups.

On board ‘Tai Rangahau’

When asked, ‘What does science mean to you?’ my fellow scientists and researchers answer’s range from “curiosity and exploration” to “science is a tool, it is useful to guide ways to help our environment”. For me, science is about questioning, inspiration and discovery. There are ample helpings of all three here! My placement at the Coastal Marine Field Station for the Science Teaching Leadership Program will enable us to enhance our Science programmes at

Otumoetai College, lift the science engagement of the school community and develop and maintain leverage linkages within the ‘science ecosystem’. I would like to give a big thank you to all the individuals and organisations that have generously given their time, expertise resources and support to make this learning journey possible, in particular The Royal Society Te Apārangi, University of Waikato and Otumoetai College. Noho ora mai,

Kim Beaton.

Learn more: What happens at the Coastal Marine Field Station? https://www.facebook.com/CoastalMarineNZ/ Why protect the reef systems off the coast of Motiti Island? https://www.boprc.govt.nz/our-projects/ motiti-protection-area What could a marine research and educational facility mean for our city? https://www.tauranga.govt.nz/our-future/projects/ university-of-waikato-marine-facility