First year T Level Education and Early Years programme at the College of West Anglia’s King’s Lynn and Wisbech campuses took part in an educational visit to the Sea Life Centre, gaining valuable insight into real-world early years and primary learning environments.

During the visit, the students participated in guided sessions led by the Sea Life Centre staff, designed to immerse them in the learning experiences of young children. The hands-on activities demonstrated how educational sessions can be tailored to meet the developmental needs of different age groups, giving students a deeper understanding of effective strategies used within early years and primary settings.

As part of their coursework, students also carried out risk assessments and designed follow up educational activities inspired by what they observed on the trip. This reflective practice encouraged them to evaluate their approaches, refine their planning and deepen their appreciation for the importance of safety, engagement, and adapting content to different learning needs.

Jasvir Hegarty, T Level Education and Early Years Course director, said “Taking our students into real learning environments is such an important part of their development. The visit to the Sea Life Centre allowed them to see how engaging, well-planned activities can support children's learning in a practical way. It was fantastic to watch their confidence grow as they connected what they've learnt in class to real world practice.”

One student, Emie Belham from King’s Lynn said “I really enjoyed sea life because we got to have a talk about rock pools and got to touch a starfish, it was a very good experience.”

Ava Stebbings who is also taking part in the course, from Wisbech said “I have really enjoyed the trip to the sea life centre. I enjoyed looking at the seals and otters the most as they were very cute and being silly. This trip links to learning as the children would learn about the different habitats animals live in.”

The trip provided a valuable opportunity for students to see theory brought to life and experience firsthand how thoughtful and engaging activities can support a child’s development. Experiences like these form a key part of CWA’s commitment to preparing students with real world skills, confidence and understanding needed to thrive in early years and education careers.