There's nothing like an outdoor classroom and practical experience when it comes to complementing primary school lessons.
The Wollongong Botanic Gardens has launched a new school excursion program which offers new ways for students to have hands-on learning experiences as well as practical field work activities and nature play.
"We know different students learn in different ways and nothing beats the practical application of classroom experiences in the outdoors,'' Wollongong City Council's Education and Outreach Specialist Sam Crosby said.
"We've spent a lot of time over the past few months taking a close look at the educational opportunities offered through the Gardens, and we're really excited with the new choices for schools and students.''
The new program will see the Green Connect Farm bringing their experience to the Garden by providing primary school excursions that cover the science and geography curriculum while Gumaraa Aboriginal Education and Cultural Experiences will deliver a new Aboriginal cultural excursion. Both new programs are designed to complement the Garden's existing in-house educational program that is delivered by Council's dedicated environmental educators. This program features workshops on topics like composting, FOGO, worm farming, recycling and Council's Tiny Forests initiative.
"Both Green Connect Farm and Gumaraa have well-established connections in Wollongong and are recognised for their connection to community,'' she said.
"Green Connect have delivered school-based learning programs at their Warrawong site since 2019 and will be bringing these skills and experience to the Garden environment.
