Helps students see the joy in learning.
Glenis Paul serves as a Professional Practice Fellow and New Zealand Marine Studies Centre (NZMSC) Teacher for the Nelson Region within the University of Otago's Department of Marine Science, Sciences Division. Stationed in Nelson, she is responsible for delivering educational outreach across the Nelson, Marlborough, and Tasman regions as part of the Ministry of Education's Enhancing Local Curriculum initiative. With a strong foundation as a very experienced secondary science teacher, Paul demonstrates exceptional ability to connect with learners across all age groups, including primary school children and early childhood students.
In her capacity as NZMSC Educator, Paul coordinates and leads a diverse array of hands-on marine science programmes designed to foster curiosity and understanding of marine environments. For primary students, her offerings encompass experiential learning modules focused on key ecological concepts such as food chains in marine systems, animal adaptations to aquatic habitats, traditional Māori fishing methods, comprehensive beach studies, fishing practices, and broader themes of environmental sustainability. These programmes emphasize practical, immersive activities that bring marine science to life. For secondary students, Paul's programmes are aligned with New Zealand's National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) curriculum, including Biology 3.1 Small Animal Studies, shoreline transect surveys to assess biodiversity and ecological health, and guided dissections to explore marine anatomy. She also provides freely accessible educational resources dedicated to the identification of marine organisms, supporting teachers and students in classroom and field settings.
Paul handles enquiries and bookings for these programmes, ensuring broad access for schools in her regions. She contributes to the Marine Discovery team, promoting public engagement with marine science at the University of Otago.
