Dive into Ocean Science Camp

A new, week-long “Ocean Science Camp” at BIOS will provide an introduction to Bermuda’s marine life while also building a scientific foundation to encourage long-term curiosity about the ocean. Over the course of the week, students will have the opportunity to participate in snorkel training and research-based field trips aboard BIOS vessels to explore mangrove, sea grass, and coral reef environments. In a nod to the collaborative nature of science, students will work as a team on activities and projects that are focused on research being conducted at BIOS.

The camp will also include a PADI Discover SCUBA experience for students to practice underwater breathing.

This new camp will also help prepare younger students, ages 12-15, for a more intense research-focused internship at BIOS through the summer Marine Science Internship (MSI) program, said Kaitlin Noyes, director of the BIOS Ocean Academy and camp co-instructor, alongside colleague and science educator Kyla Smith. MSI is an immersive, two-week residential internship program geared for students ages 14 to 16 who are looking to learn resume-building skills and training in the foundations of scientific research and science diving.

“Ocean Science Camp is a perfect pathway to MSI, as dive certification is not required. But students will still learn about Bermuda’s ecosystems, current topics in marine science research, and the work taking place at BIOS,” Noyes said.

The camp will be offered in two sessions, from July 16 to 20 and July 23 to 27, with up to 12 students per session and days running from 9am until 4:30pm. Applications are due April 30, 2018 and must include an essay detailing why the student wants to take part in the camp and what they hope to learn. Bursaries for financial support are available through submission of a separate application. For more information about the Ocean Science Camp, please email oa@bios.edu.