The Bermuda Zoological Society has launched an educational programme offering students an engaging, hands-on introduction to the island’s rocks, fossils and rocky coastal habitats.

The BZS said the “Bermuda Rocks” programme will be taught to the primary two-level students, backing the Cambridge Primary Science Stage Two curriculum.

The BZS welcomed Bermudian Jill Darrell and Brian Rosen, two scientists who worked alongside the BZS education team to deliver the inaugural sessions when the programme was unveiled this month at the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo.

“Jill and Brian are both former Natural History Museum scientists with extensive experience in science education,” a spokeswoman said.

“For the kick-off lesson, they brought their expertise in fossils, corals and geological history to help introduce Bermuda’s unique natural story to young learners.”

During the launch, students rotated through three interactive stations.

At the Rock Pool in the Tale of Two Islands exhibit at BAMZ, students were guided through the island’s rocky shore habitats.

Dr Rosen introduced the children to rock specimens from around the island and the world, an exercise demonstrating how different rocks form.

Ms Darrell explored Bermuda’s fossil history, showing students fossil corals, marine plants and animals.

She also helped them to identify living species at BAMZ that appear in Bermuda’s fossil record.

“The children enjoyed handling the specimens, asked great questions and were enthusiastic throughout,” Ms Darrell said.

“It was a pleasure to see their curiosity and excitement as they explored Bermuda’s geological story,” Dr Rosen added.

The programme is open to all schools, and in the 90-minute lessons, students will discover and compare different types of Bermuda rocks through hands-on observation and simple testing

They explore, categorise and magnify rock specimens from all over the world and investigate exhibits at BAMZ to learn about animals living in Bermuda’s rocky coastal habitats.

The session supports Stage Two learning objectives, including recognising different rock types, understanding natural materials and identifying habitats.

The BZS said its education team looked forward to welcoming more P2 classes to explore the rocks that shape the island and the stories they tell.

• For more information or to make a booking, e-mail Hollyanne Shirely, BZS education administrator, at edadmin@bzs.bm