A Cornwall wave taken with the camera partially submerged in the water. The shallow water shows a rocky sea bed with algae, while a brilliant blue sky can be seen above the crashing wave.

Learn

The ocean is a wonderous place. Find out more about it with our learning hub.

A-Z of UK marine life

Check out our marine‑animal database and meet the creatures that make UK waters so extraordinary; from the familiar faces you spot while rockpooling to the shy, elusive oddities you may never have heard of.

Want to tell your mauve stinger from your scarlet lady? You’ll find everything you need right here.

Dive in

    What is ocean literacy?

    Though you might think ocean literacy is just about improving people’s knowledge of the ocean, there is more to it than that. Ocean literacy actually encompasses ten elements, all of which are integral to understanding our influence on the ocean, and its influence on us.

    Find out why we believe ocean literacy to be integral to making positive change for our sea.

    Learn about the ten elements of ocean literacy
    a person standing at the edge of the sea while holding a pair of shoes

    A person standing at the edge of the sea while holding a pair of shoes in Scotland  |  Image credit: Chris Arthur-Collins

    Ocean facts & stats

    Did you know that the ocean covers approximately 70% of the Earth's surface? It is therefore no surprise that the ocean is a breathtaking place full of wonder if you look hard enough.

    Discover some facts and stats about the sea and its inhabitants which are guaranteed to give you a new found respect for the deep blue sea.

    Learn something new

    A school of silver drummer fish  |  Image credit: Jordan Robins/Ocean Image Bank

    Learning resources

    Whether you’re a teacher, a parent, a youth leader or a young ocean champion, our learning resource hub allows you to learn and take action for our blue planet in a structured way. Our collection of ocean‑themed resources brings the wonders of the sea to life wherever you are, whether at school, at home, or even on the beach!

    Learn about our amazing ocean with our downloadable resources for teachers and young people.

    Dive into our resources
    A purple bloody henry starfish in a kelp forest at Lamorna, Cornwall

    A bloody henry starfish in a kelp forest at Lamorna, Cornwall  |  Image credit: Heather Hamilton

    Ocean activities

    Learning about the ocean doesn’t always have to feel serious. If you’re looking for ocean‑themed fun to keep the kids entertained, you’re in exactly the right place. Dive into a collection of games and activities that celebrate the sea and its incredible marine life - perfect for curious minds and the whole family to enjoy together.

    From creative arts and crafts to hands‑on things to do at the beach, we’ve put together a range of resources designed to spark imagination and keep young explorers busy during school holidays and weekends.

    Get creative

    Arts & crafts  |  Image credit: MD Jerry

    Other things of interest

    A woman holding a microphone. She is wearing a Marine Conservation Society t-shirt

    Book a community talk

    Enjoy a talk in your local community to learn more about the work of the Marine Conservation Society.
    Zoe Lyons, a Marine Conservation Society staff member, and Cully from Cully and Sully, sit on stools in front of a large screen, giving a talk to an audience. All three people are smiling broadly.

    About us

    We're a leading UK environmental charity dedicated to protecting our ocean through social and political change.
    A blue jellyfish swimming in clear azure blue waters in Scotland. It appears ethereal with long thread-like tendrils coming from it's white bell-shaped body. It appears to be swimming towards the surface with its bell concave towards the surface.

    Learn about the ocean

    Our latest ocean insights and fascinating articles - from the wonders of seaweed to the difference between a seal and a sea lion.