A group of young environmentalists met the dolphins at Dolphin Quest after being named finalists in its Student Stewardship Contest.

Almost 100 students entered the competition by submitting artwork to highlight challenges faced by the oceans and possible solutions.

The best ten got to meet the dolphins and receive certificates on Saturday.

Sundée Faulkner, sales and outreach manager for Dolphin Quest, said the competition was organised in conjunction with the UN World Wildlife Day, which was celebrated on March 3.

She said: “The creativity and passion for ocean conservation displayed in their artwork was inspiring, and we are privileged to help educate future generations of ocean stewards here at Dolphin Quest.

“The rate at which our ocean environments are deteriorating is concerning. It is critically important for us all to get involved, make better choices and find solutions to protect our ocean.

“These caring, intelligent children will be the ones who champion this vitally important cause into the future.”

Seri Fisher, from Somerset Primary School, was named the winner of the 5 to 9 category, and Aamir Hayward, from Francis Patton Primary School, won the 10 to 12 category.

In addition to their certificates, both students will be invited back to Dolphin Quest in June with their classmates to see the dolphins.

They will also both be entered into a related international contest, with a top prize of a trip to Delphinus Xcaret marine park in Mexico for the seventh Festival of the Oceans Mexican Caribbean Celebrations.

Other finalists included Florence Smalley of Port Royal Primary School, Amaris Munya of Warwick Academy and Tejah Bean and Tange Bean of Sandys Middle School.

Mount Saint Agnes had the largest number of finalists, with Hailey Furtado, Simon Thompson, William Adams and MacKenzie Lewis all recognised for their entries.