Crofty Coastal Crew
At Crofty Education Trust, our Coastal Crew inspires pupils to develop a deeper understanding of Cornwall’s unique coastal environment and their role in protecting it for future generations. Bringing together representatives from all 18 schools, the Crew provides opportunities for children to explore the benefits, challenges and opportunities associated with living and working alongside one of the UK’s most distinctive coastlines.
Through hands-on experiences, field visits, expert-led workshops and community projects, pupils learn about marine ecosystems, water quality, biodiversity, coastal safety and the importance of environmental stewardship. The programme encourages children to become passionate advocates for Cornwall’s coastline while developing the knowledge, confidence and leadership skills needed to make a positive difference within their communities.
A key feature of the Coastal Crew is connecting classroom learning with real-world experiences. Pupils meet professionals whose work is centred around the sea, helping them understand the diverse range of careers linked to Cornwall’s maritime economy, environmental conservation and coastal industries. Through these experiences, children gain a greater appreciation of the social, environmental and economic importance of our coastline.
2026/27: Seagrass, Sustainability and Coastal Advocacy
This year, the Coastal Crew is exploring the vital role Cornwall’s waterways, coastal habitats and marine ecosystems play in supporting biodiversity and environmental sustainability.
A central focus of the programme is Cornwall’s pioneering seagrass restoration projects. Pupils will investigate how seagrass meadows provide important habitats for marine wildlife, improve water quality and capture carbon, helping to combat climate change. By learning about these restoration initiatives, pupils will gain a greater understanding of how local environmental action can contribute to global sustainability challenges.
The Crew will also visit the Roseland Centre, where pupils will work alongside local experts to understand the significance of Cornwall’s coastline, its rich maritime heritage and the strategic importance of our coastal location. These experiences will help pupils develop a stronger connection to their local environment and recognise the opportunities and responsibilities that come with living by the sea.
Building on their learning, pupils will design and deliver their own awareness and marketing campaigns to educate others about protecting Cornwall’s coastal environment. Through research, communication and advocacy activities, they will become confident ambassadors for our coastline, inspiring positive change within their schools and communities.
Our Journey So Far
2025/26: Understanding Cornwall’s Fishing Industry
The inaugural year of the Coastal Crew focused on developing pupils’ understanding of Cornwall’s fishing industry and the important role it plays in supporting coastal communities, livelihoods and the local economy.
Throughout the year, pupils explored the journey of seafood from sea to plate, learning about the opportunities and challenges facing the modern fishing industry. They examined how sustainability, regulation, changing consumer habits and environmental pressures influence the sector and considered how these factors affect Cornwall’s coastal communities.
The programme combined practical conservation activities with wider environmental learning. Pupils participated in beach litter picks, helping to protect local habitats while gaining first-hand experience of the impact waste can have on marine ecosystems. Workshops on sustainable seafood encouraged pupils to think critically about responsible sourcing and the importance of protecting fish stocks for future generations.
A particularly powerful area of learning centred on understanding where Cornwall’s catch goes after landing. Pupils explored how a significant proportion of locally caught seafood is exported to markets across Europe and beyond, prompting discussion about food miles, local consumption, sustainability and the relationship between Cornwall’s fishing heritage and the modern global economy.
By the end of the year, pupils had developed a greater appreciation of the people, industries and environments that depend on healthy seas, while strengthening their understanding of how individual and collective actions can help protect Cornwall’s coastline for future generations. All which was celebrated with a sustainable fish BBQ at Porthleven School for the 18 schools Crew members!