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Mersey Rivers Trust - Educational Programme

Inspiring the Next Generation of River Guardians

At Mersey Rivers Trust, we believe that meaningful, long-lasting environmental change begins with education. Our Education Programme allows schools, colleges, and community groups to connect with their local rivers through hands-on, science-based learning.

Learners explore river systems, water quality, biodiversity, and the real environmental challenges facing the Mersey catchment today. Through practical fieldwork, data collection, and interactive workshops, participants gain a deeper understanding of how rivers function—and how human activity impacts these vital ecosystems.

All sessions are delivered by our experienced and fully qualified team, ensuring that every activity is safe, engaging, and rooted in real-world conservation practice. Whether testing water chemistry, identifying river wildlife, or investigating pollution sources, we equip young people and community members with the knowledge and skills to become confident river guardians.

What We Offer 

Our programme goes beyond traditional learning. Students and community groups contribute directly to ongoing river restoration efforts through data collection, wildlife monitoring, pollution investigations, and youth-led Blue Influencer projects—helping us build a healthier river network for everyone.

School Workshops

Field Trips

Citizen Science Projects

Teacher Support

The Blue Influencer Programme

Empowering young environmental leaders

The Blue Influencer Programme is a youth-focused initiative designed to give young people (typically ages 11–18) the skills, knowledge, and confidence to make a positive impact on their local waterways.

What Blue Influencers Do:

  • Take part in enhanced water quality testing and river surveys

  • Lead mini environmental projects in their school or community

  • Create awareness campaigns about plastic pollution, river health, and climate impacts

  • Collaborate with Mersey Rivers Trust staff on real conservation work

  • Develop leadership, communication, and STEM skills

What Schools & Groups Receive:

  • Dedicated support from the Mersey Rivers Trust team

  • Training sessions for pupils

  • Activity packs, project guides, and monitoring equipment

  • Opportunities to showcase projects at local events

Perfect for: Eco clubs, science clubs, youth groups, Duke of Edinburgh participants, or schools wanting deeper engagement with environmental action.

Learning Outcomes

By taking part in our Education Programme and Blue Influencer activities, learners will:

Learning Outcome 1

Learning Outcome 2

Learning Outcome 3

Learning Outcome 4

Learning Outcome 5

Example Session Themes

Mersey Rivers Trust can tailor make sessions to suit various groups' objectives while sharing some of our key messages, here's some example sessions:

Water Quality Investigation

River life under the Microscope

Pollution

Climate Change & Rivers

Understanding rivers & urban catchments

Who It’s For

We tailor every Mersey Rivers Trust session to suit the needs of different groups. Many of our projects also focus on supporting particular audiences, such as:

Schools

College

University

Youth Groups

Community Groups

Why Choose Us

Our sessions are delivered by experienced educators, river specialists, and environmental practitioners who bring real-world knowledge and passion to every activity.

Professional Science

Curriculum-Aligned and STEM-rich

Meaningful Youth Engagement

Supporting Future Careers

Real Impact on Local Rivers

Find Out More About Our Previous Sessions

Our sessions are designed to be flexible, engaging, and curriculum-linked, allowing students to apply STEM knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and contribute to genuine river restoration and conservation projects. These experiences not only help learners understand local waterways but also inspire a sense of responsibility and empower them to make a positive impact on their environment.

See how your school, college, or community group could benefit from a session and join us in protecting the Mersey catchment.

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Booking Information

Duration: 1–3 hours (custom full-day sessions available)

Location: Rivers across the Mersey catchment or at your school/college

Cost: Contact us for pricing and funded opportunities (including Blue Influencer support)