The Lüderitz Blue School has been shortlisted for the Tes Awards for International Schools under the curriculum initiative of the year category.

The school was shortlisted to celebrate its marine and maritime studies curriculum, an educational model that places the ocean at the heart of learning.

The shortlist was selected by a panel of judges, including international school leaders and education experts from major global organisations.

Developed by the school’s head of blue education, Marnie Erasmus, the curriculum is a standalone subject taught from grades 3 to 8.

It offers pupils a rich, interdisciplinary exploration of the ocean, spanning ecology, culture, history, art and economics.

Hosted by Times Educational Supplement (Tes), the award honours excellence in international education and spotlights schools shaping the future of learning across the globe.

“Our vision for marine and maritime studies is to ensure every child develops the knowledge, skills, and values needed to become an active steward of the marine environment,” Erasmus says.

Tes international editor and chair of the judges Dan Worth has congratulated the schools and individuals shortlisted for the awards.

“The volume of entries we received, coupled with the depth of quality, meant it was no easy task for our judges to create the shortlist we are now proud to share,” he says.

Winners will be announced on 9 December through a global broadcast video, live and on-demand.