Three hundred and twelve teachers and principals from 211 schools attended a series of island wide workshops entitled "Coral Reefs: Rainforests of the Ocean", put on by the Schools Environment Programme (SEP), a project of the Jamaica Environment Trust (JET). Conducted between February 11th and March 4th, 2004, the workshops informed teachers about the nature and function of coral reefs, some of the factors that threaten them, and methods of conservation. Teachers learned that many of Jamaica's reefs are severely damaged and discussed the effects of degraded reefs on the tourist sector.

The workshops were supported by a comprehensive package of handouts, lesson guides and a CD on coral reefs. The resource package is designed to inform teachers and students, and make environmental education more accessible.

In her evaluation of the workshop, Mrs. Grace Dennis, principal of Woodford Preparatory in St. Andrew stated; "If more of these workshops are held and teachers trained, imagine how many of our students will become knowledgeable and how this will impact on the preservation and protection of our natural resources and environment."

Another important component was the curriculum infusion element, where teachers learnt how to use aspects of the presentation to prepare and execute effective lesson plans. JET works closely with the Ministry of Education, Youth and Culture (MOEYC), and all materials are linked to prescribed curricula and syllabuses. The MOEYC approved certificates of participation for teachers who attended the workshops.

Some of the workshops had an added field component. Teachers were able to see the state of inshore coral reefs from a glass bottom boat. It was a novel experience for teachers, many of whom had never seen a coral reef before.

SEP faces immediate funding challenges, as current funding arrangements expire in August 2004. Teachers strongly support the continuation of the programme. After the workshops, Ms Bellicia Henry, teacher of Bryce Primary in Manchester said: "The facilitators did a wonderful job...the workshop was far more than expected. I wish they did not have to end."

Several teachers across the island shared this view and believe the Jamaican government should do their part in ensuring sustainability of the programme.

"The Schools Environment Programme is very important in helping to educate people about the environment...This should continue and government should allocate funding to this programme." This was voiced by the 4H leader, Mr. Robert O'Connor of Staceyville All-Age in Clarendon.

SEP is funded by a mix of donors and private sector sponsors. These are: the Environmental Foundation of Jamaica, the ENACT Programme, the Canada/Jamaica Green Fund, the British High Commission, Jamaica Energy Partners, NEM Insurance Co. Ja. Ltd., Jamaica Producers Group, First Caribbean International Bank, Industrial Gases Ltd., WINDALCO, Shell W.I. Ltd. and Nestle Ja. Ltd.