What is Classroom on the Reef?
Classroom on the Reef (COTR) is a JCU designed and led marine science educational program intended for senior school students studying marine biology, marine science or environmental science subjects. Facilitated at JCU’s Orpheus Island Research Station in Tropical North Queensland. The program complements marine science topics students are already studying at school, while providing the unique opportunity for hands on learning at an active research station on the Great Barrier Reef.
How does Classroom on the Reef align with the Queensland Marine Science Syllabus (2025)?
Classroom on the Reef (COTR) aligns with topics covered in the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) Marine Science 2025 v1.3 (implemented January 2026) General Senior Syllabus curriculum.
COTR tackles Unit 3: Marine systems – connections and change
The content is organised into flexible, standalone modules that can be tailored to suit different levels of prior understanding, making it suitable for students with varying backgrounds in marine science/ STEM studies. The program begins with core topics including coral biology and anatomy, then extends to broader themes including reef formation, habitat diversity, and ecosystem connectivity. Each module includes presentation slides, classroom activities, and hands-on fieldwork, allowing students to engage meaningfully with topics that align with their interests and curriculum requirements.
Where is the Classroom on the Reef taught?
Classroom on the Reef (COTR), is designed to be most effective with the meaningful field work and hands on experiences provided by Orpheus Island Research Station (OIRS).
Our Classroom is located at JCU’s Orpheus Island Research Station (OIRS). The OIRS is based in the National Park on Orpheus Island which is part of the Palm Island Group off the coast of North Queensland. A trip to ‘the reef’ will involve a transfer via boat from Lucinda to Orpheus Island where your class can stay at the Research Station in comfort for the duration of their program. The research station is well equipped to support large groups with dorm-style housing, large communal kitchens and dining facilities, a formal lecture hall, wet and dry laboratories, and a large supply of snorkelling equipment. The station boasts access to both fringing and mid-shelf coral reefs from a range of sheltered and exposed habitats supporting a diverse assemblage of flora and fauna. Reefs can be accessed from the shore directly in front of the station, or at sites around the Palm Islands via a fleet of vessels available at the station.
This can be coupled with prior learning in your classroom to push the students to ask questions, implement their knowledge, and understand the interconnectivity of themselves and the amazing ocean environment.
COTR also offers programs that can be solely taught in your classroom – this package includes resources, lectures, student activities and teacher answer books.
Who will deliver Classroom on the Reef content to your students?
The Classroom on the Reef (COTR) program is delivered by James Cook University’s Orpheus Island Research Station (OIRS) team, with support tailored to your group’s needs. During your visit, staff can assist with content delivery by prior arrangement, with sessions tailored to your students’ confidence, experience, and snorkelling or fieldwork skills. All our James Cook University OIRS staff have industry experience across marine science, ecology, and environmental science fields, creating opportunities for open conversations and immersive, hands-on experiences for students.
The program is flexible and designed to align with your teaching goals. While grounded in the syllabus, activities can be adapted to suit your students’ prior knowledge, learning focus, and desired depth.
COTR also offers self-teach units, with detailed teacher manuals to support lesson delivery, curriculum navigation, and assessment.
Not delivering the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) Marine Science 2025 v1.3?
This program is for you too.
A school visit to Orpheus Island Research Station – and the supporting classroom content we provide – can be tailored to meet a wide range of teaching needs. Whether you’re delivering a broader science subject or working within specific syllabus requirements, our team can work with you to curate a program that best suits your students.