Young Botanists

Victorian Challenge and Enrichment Series

Young Botanists

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is a proud partner of the Victorian Challenge and Enrichment Series which provides opportunities for high-ability Victorian Government school students to participate in the innovative Young Botanists Program.

If you're a Victorian Government School Teacher, apply today!

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Young Botanist Art Series | Foundation – Year 2

This early years program immerses students in the world of Art and Science through creative expression.

Government school students will interact with specialist scientists such as mycologists, botanists, ecologists, and ornithologists learning and exploring all things science!

Students will also partake in hands on art activities run by passionate artists to help them makes sense of their new learnings.

The program runs from 10.30am-12.30pm. The group will consist of a cohort of students from various government schools. Students must be accompanied by an adult. Please note, this program has a limit of 5 students per school for the sessions.

The program is coordinated by our Learning Facilitators and accompanied by a curated Resource Pack.

Program Availability:

  • This program is available in-person at our Botanic Gardens in Melbourne.
  • Choose from the set dates outlined.
  • This program is for high-ability students (Foundation – 2).

Students will:

  • Have the opportunity to interact with expert Scientists.
  • Engage with real life specimens from the Botanic Gardens.
  • Use their senses for exploration and discovery.
  • Consolidate their learnings through open-ended art activities.

Key focuses:

  • Hands on experiential learning.
  • Scientific observation and exploration.
  • Creative and expressive arts.

Program Outline

Autumn Mycology: Tuesday May 30 10:30am – 12:30pm

Engage your students in the fascinating world of Fungi through Art and Science based experiences at the Royal Botanic Gardens. Meet Senior Mycologist Tom May, hear his stories and meet his wild collection of Fungi. Children will be inspired by all things mycology. They will be invited to express their new learnings through creative art practices with the guidance of an experienced Artist.

Spring Seeds: Tuesday August 29 10:30am – 12:30pm

Inspire your students through the wonderful world of Seeds through Art and Science based experiences at the Royal Botanic Gardens. Spend time with botanist Meg Hirst, learn about her special collection from the Herbarium and all about the magic of seeds. Children will be inspired by all things seed related. They will be invited to express their new learnings through creative art practices with the guidance of an experienced Artist.

Tuesday November 28: Details TBC