A pioneering digital learning platform rooted in the Isle of Wight UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is stepping onto the global stage.
EarthMuseum Learn – co‑created with schools and museums across the Solent and Isle of Wight -has launched two new programmes, Air We Breathe and Isle of Wight Heritage Biosphere, now free for all schools everywhere to use.
An award‑winning learning platform
EarthMuseum Learn, an award‑winning platform for ages 7-14, blends immersive storytelling with geography, science, history, maths, English, arts and citizenship.
Designed to bridge the growing gap between primary and secondary learning, it offers an interactive story‑world supported by flexible classroom resources and confidence‑building tools that work for learners of all abilities.
Air We Breathe programme
Its flagship global programme, Air We Breathe, helps pupils explore air quality, health and environmental change through real stories connected to the places they live – whether in the Solent region or anywhere in the world.
The new Isle of Wight Heritage Biosphere programme showcases more than 400 stories celebrating the Island’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
Content has been developed in partnership with 11 Isle of Wight museums through the Museums and Schools initiative funded by Arts Council England and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
Local involvement key to success
Local involvement has been at the heart of the platform’s development. Teachers and pupils from across the Solent and Isle of Wight have shaped content, accessibility features and classroom‑ready activities from day one.
Curators from Island museums have contributed unique collection stories, while academic partners at regional universities have ensured cutting‑edge research directly informs the platform’s approach.
Lingard-Lane: An incredibly rewarding experience
Tamsyn Lingard-Lane, Acting Headteacher, Bembridge Church of England Primary
School, said,
“Being part of EarthMuseum Learn’s development from the very beginning has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Over the last five years, we’ve tested ideas, trialled resources in real classrooms, and provided specialist advice to help shape a platform that genuinely meets the needs of Island pupils.
“Working with the team on the internationally relevant Air We Breathe learning programme has been especially exciting—seeing students connect global environmental issues with their own local experiences is incredibly powerful.
“What I value most is how closely EarthMuseum Learn listens to teachers, building innovative tools that feel grounded in real learning and truly inspiring for our pupils.”
Opening the door for even more schools
A spokesperson for Isle of Wight Museums and Schools said,
“The Isle of Wight Museums and Schools Programme seeks innovative ways to make our collections truly meaningful for the young people who live, learn, and grow here on the Island.
“By helping us transform our collections into rich digital journeys, EarthMuseum Learn is opening the door for even more schools – both on the Isle of Wight and visiting from the Mainland.
“The platform allows connection with our heritage in ways that feel relevant and exciting.”
EarthMuseum Learn is now live and free for all schools and home educators to explore.
News shared by Janet on behalf of The Earth Museum. Ed
