By implementing TeachBlue, we aimed to strengthen marine and ocean literacy in early childhood education and support children’s understanding of the importance of oceans for climate stability, biodiversity and human well-being. The project sought to foster environmental awareness and pro-environmental behaviour from an early age. TeachBlue aimed to develop a practical educational framework for student teachers and in-service educators, equipping them with knowledge, competences and ready-to-use tools to teach marine and ocean topics effectively and age-appropriately. The project also sought to identify curriculum gaps and understand children’s knowledge, perceptions and misconceptions about marine environments, ensuring that materials responded to the learning needs of children aged 4–8. Another objective was to create accessible, learner-centred resources, including a Toolkit, board game, 360° underwater videos and an e-learning platform. Our aim was also to build long-term capacity by training teacher educators and ambassadors able to disseminate knowledge and support professional development beyond the project, generating sustainable impact at local, regional and European levels.
We applied for TeachBlue to address the urgent need to strengthen marine and ocean literacy in early childhood education. Oceans are essential for climate stability, biodiversity, food, jobs and human well-being, yet they are increasingly threatened by climate change, pollution and degradation. Children therefore need to understand their importance and develop responsible attitudes towards ocean protection from an early age. The project responded to international and European priorities, including SDG 14, the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development and EU priorities related to the sustainable blue economy. However, marine and ocean topics remain underrepresented in early childhood curricula, despite this stage being crucial for shaping values, environmental awareness and future pro-environmental behaviour. TeachBlue addressed the need to identify curriculum gaps, explore the knowledge and misconceptions of children aged 4–8, and equip student teachers and educators with practical tools, training and competences. It also developed engaging resources - game, 360° videos and a digital platform, while supporting long-term capacity building through teacher educators, ambassadors and inclusive digital training.