Education

The Geelong Botanic Gardens connects people with the amazing world of plants.

• Schools can participate in a range of themed programs.
• Families can join in the fun of school holiday programs.
• Horticulture students may develop skills in hands-on-horticulture with work experience.

For more information, visit the GBG website

The Development of Education at the Geelong Botanic Gardens

In 1998, the Friends organised and funded the professional development of an Education Kit for Primary Schools. The program was delivered by our Volunteer Guides in consultation with Education Department teachers.

In 2002, the Friends funded an Administrative Officer with educational and horticultural qualifications. The program was expanded, and the idea of the outdoor classroom was embraced by schools. In 2007, the role of Education Officer was supported by the Friends for 12 hours per week.  Approximately 1,100 students were visiting the Gardens and using our programs each year.

In 2012, a change was made to the delivery of schools education in the Gardens. The objective was to expand the programs and attract more students to learn about, and appreciate, plants. Clearly, the Friends could not continue to undertake a much larger program, and agreed with the GBG to support the City offering education to schools. To this end, and in accordance with our Purposes, we signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the City, signalling our ongoing support.