Young Botanists

Young Botanist Art Series | Foundation – Year 2

The Young Botanists Art Series is an Early Years program that immerses students in the worlds of art and science through hands-on exploration and creative expression. 

Designed for Foundation to Year 2 students, the program offers Government School students the opportunity to interact with specialist scientists, such as mycologists, botanists, and ecologists as they explore scientific concepts inspired by the natural world.

Students will also participate in experiential, hands-on art activities led by passionate artists. These creative sessions support students to make sense of their new scientific learnings through imagination, play, and expression. 

The program is delivered in either a morning or afternoon session:

• 10:15–11:45am
• 12:45–2:15pm

Students must be accompanied by a teacher, parent or carer. The program is delivered by experienced Learning Facilitators.

Program Availability

• Delivered in person at the Botanic Gardens, Melbourne
• Available on selected dates
• Designed for high-ability students (Foundation–Year 2)

Students Will

• Interact with expert artists and scientists
• Engage with the living collections of the Botanic Gardens
• Use their senses to explore, observe, and discover
• Consolidate their learning through open-ended creative art activities

Key Focus Areas

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

Program Outline 

Spring Seeds

Tuesday 18 August: 10:15 - 11:45am or 12:45 - 2:15pm (Duration 1.5 hours) 

Inspire your students through the wonderful world of seeds with engaging Art and Science experiences.

Spend time with a Seed Ecologist and discover the incredible variety of seeds and the amazing “superpowers” that help them grow and survive.

Children will then bring their discoveries to life through hands-on art activities, guided by an experienced artist, creating a seed-inspired artwork to take home. This program combines curiosity, creativity, and exploration, helping students see the tiny wonders of nature in a whole new way.

Young Botanists Term 4

Wednesday 21 October 10:15 - 11:45am or 12:45 - 2:15pm (Duration 1.5 hours) 

Join us for a special Young Botanists adventure and discover the deep connections between plants, people, and Country.

Guided by a First Peoples educator, children will explore Melbourne Gardens through stories, hands-on activities, and sensory experiences that celebrate the knowledge and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

Students will learn about local plants and their many uses, while developing a deeper understanding of caring for Country.

Working alongside an artist, children will respond to their discoveries through a creative nature-inspired activity, bringing together science, culture, and art in an engaging and meaningful way.

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria acknowledges the support of the Department of Education, Victoria, through the Victorian Challenge and Enrichment Series. Eligible schools may apply for additional funding for transportation and CRTs via the Department of Education.