The Marine Mammal Foundation (MMF) has a decade-long history of delivering innovative education, community outreach, and citizen science initiatives and programs, developed and informed by MMF's active research programs. Through modern science pedagogy, bringing active applied research methodologies and findings into the classroom and communities, we have developed an inquiry-based instructional approach. This approach connects, inspires and empowers participants to develop science-based critical thinking, building upon current knowledge to explore and form educated scientific and conservation conclusions. We have developed engaging and informative hypothesis-driven education programs by identifying key curriculum links, providing higher-level inquiry learning to students. Our programs have engaged over 53,000 students and community members (2017-2024), along with receiving successful nominations and recognition through numerous awards. The continued delivery of our programs during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a pivot towards online delivery, demonstrated the capacity, resilience, and flexibility of our innovative programs to adapt and respond to the demands of an ever-changing world. Importantly, ongoing grant-based support for disadvantaged schools and low socio-economic communities ensures participation remains accessible and equitable. Through engaging marine mammal science-based participation opportunities, our programs positively impact the understanding of school-aged children and community members, fostering greater conservation concern and promoting ongoing sustainable behaviours.