The former head of Bermuda High School has been appointed by the Bermuda Zoological Society to strengthen its educational programmes.

Linda Parker brings four decades of educational experience to the organisation.

She joins BZS, the major support charity for the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo, after her retirement in 2023 from the BHS, where she served for 20 years, including 16 as head of school.

Previously, she worked in the public education system with stints at the Whitney Institute Middle School, an aided school, and CedarBridge Academy.

Most recently, Ms Parker led the fundraising and construction of the BHS's $11.4 million Innovation Centre for science, technology, engineering and maths. She pioneered new approaches to science education emphasising critical thinking, problem-solving and collaboration.

Ms Parker, who holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a Bachelor of Education from Queen’s University in Canada and a Master of Education from the University of Exeter in England, said: “I have built positive relationships with educators, administrators and students across both public and private educational systems in Bermuda.

“At BZS, I'm excited to work with our talented team to prepare and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards through experiential learning.”

Under Ms Parker's leadership, the BZS Schools Programme will continue to offer free classes serving local students from preschool to college level.

The classes are offered through three core branches: GASS, for Generating Academic Success in Science, along with the Living Classroom and Ocean Education.

A key priority will be developing and implementing the Terrestrial Education Programme across all grade levels, focusing on Bermuda's diverse environments using BZS resources, including the Trunk Island Living Classroom and the micro forest programme.

The BZS Schools Programme leverages educational assets including the BAMZ, Trunk Island, Harrington Sound and the R/V Endurance, BZS’s “floating classroom”, to provide hands-on learning experiences.

The GASS programme measures outcomes of Stem curriculum modules with a focus on problem-solving, creative thinking and digital skills, while the Living Classroom integrates natural environments into learning.

“Ocean education, through programmes like Kids on the Reef, provides a multidisciplinary approach encompassing marine biology, oceanography, environmental science and conservation,” Ms Parker said.

“At BZS, we have a strong team of hard-working, talented and dedicated educators.”

Teachers include Alex Amat, the ocean lead, Camilla Stringer, educational activities co-ordinator, Lauren Gray, terrestrial lead, and Karl Darrell, the new preschool and primary teacher.

Ms Parker added: “Together, we will work to grow our next generation of scientists, marine biologists, researchers, biochemists, zoologists, aquarists, environmental stewards and conservationists, to name a few of the many careers in this field.

“Bringing science principles alive through experiential learning is where we excel at BZS.

“Our team of educators is committed to providing ongoing professional development and staying abreast of educational trends to best prepare students for success in the 21st century and beyond.”

Ian Walker, principal curator of BAMZ, said he was inspired by the strength and vision of the BZS education team.

Dr Walker said: “Each member brings a unique area of expertise, whether in ocean sciences, early learning or conservation fieldwork, that together form a truly world-class educational programme.

“Under Linda Parker’s experienced and thoughtful leadership, the team continues to thrive, expanding opportunities for Bermuda’s students and deepening our impact across the Island.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to see where their collective passion and expertise will take us next.”

• For more information about BZS education programmes, visitwww.bzs.bm or contact edofficer@bzs.bm