Children's University Tasmania members journeyed back millions of years to the age of the dinosaur at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) in Hobart today.
The children explored the Dinosaur rEvolution exhibition and the range of other activities offered during the 2019 TMAG Children's Festival, which this year is about the evolution of our planet and how to care for it.
Children's University Tasmania, a Peter Underwood Centre program, helps to develop children into adaptable, lifelong learners and builds bridges to employment and higher education by connecting them to a diverse range of fun and engaging learning experiences outside of school hours.
The visit to TMAG by students from six primary schools - Kempton, Bagdad, Brighton, Goodwood, Austin's Ferry and Rokeby - was among the school holiday programs being offered to members this week.
Dinosaur rEvolution, which continues until May 5, features animatronics, 3d models, close to life-sized murals, fossil casts and interactive displays.
The TMAG Children's Festival, which continues until Wednesday, offers everything from pottery to origami activities.
Peter Underwood Centre Director, Professor Natalie Brown, said it was tremendous to see the children and their families so engaged with learning.
"There are few things that spark interest and wonder in children - and adults for that matter - more than the ancient world of the dinosaurs," Professor Brown said.
"The excitement levels here today are palpable, and to hear children and parents discussing ideas and sharing knowledge, just brings a smile to my face.
"TMAG has supported Children's University Tasmania as a Learning Destination virtually since its inception in 2015, and the activities it offers for children and young people are a perfect fit for the program."
The TMAG Children's Festival, now in its fourth year, is designed to provide opportunities for young people to actively participate in the museum's activities and present what's important to them.
TMAG Deputy Director, Engagement, Andy Baird, said the museum was a great venue for younger visitors to be inspired and awed by the possibilities of the world around them, and opened the door to a diversity of art, science, history and culture in a free, accessible manner.
"TMAG and Children's University share the desire to provide all children, from whatever background, opportunities to explore the wonders of the world," Mr Baird said.
"TMAG is a natural place for learning, and a place of enjoyment."
The University of Tasmania is an education partner for the Dinosaur rEvolution exhibition.
