Ribbons of Blue / Waterwatch WA can help you and your class explore our local rivers, streams and wetlands through a range of learning experiences linked to the Western Australian Curriculum Framework. You can focus on how the lives and actions of every one of us living in the catchment affect our waterways. Students can undertake scientific monitoring with equipment provided by our regional coordinators as well as doing a range of activities that meet outcomes in all learning areas. Your students work will deepen understanding of their local environment and the role people play in sustaining its health.

Your class can take part in on-going monitoring collecting data for a state-wide data base, or participate in short-term events like the fun 'Macroinvertebrate Snapshot' run by your regional coordinator. You can undertake special projects or competitions. There are also opportunities for classes / schools to 'adopt' a site and help to rehabilitate / preserve it and educate the wider community on its special qualities. You don't even need to be near water, we can still provide real-life learning experiences for your students.

Most importantly we have a network of Regional Coordinators who have a wealth of local knowledge and experience in working with students to help you. We also have an experienced teacher on secondment from the Department of Education and Training who can answer any queries. There are a range of resources available free of charge, including the new Teacher Resource Kit.

To find out what professional development opportunities and resources are available in your area contact your Regional Coordinator. If you are in an area where there is no Ribbons of Blue Regional Coordinator please contact the State Support Team.

Ribbons of Blue can be done as part of the Waterwise Schools Program and can help your school participate in the Sustainable Schools Initiative. It is also part of the Waterwatch Australia program.

Click on a link below to access our on-line resources and get further information

• Regional Coordinators
• State Support Team
• Resources - a range of Curriculum-linked resources suited to a range of levels
• Equipment - the equipment you can borrow and our on-going monitoring
• Events - short-term, fun activities such as the Saltwatch and Macroinvertebrate Snapshot
• News - including projects and competitions
• Technical Information
• Case Studies

“It's a great way to contribute to the local community, involve the students in useful outdoor activities which have an important effect on their environment and it allows the students to study, monitor and help conserve the local wetland.” – Charlie Ballard, Teacher, Calista Primary School (Kwinana / Peel)