Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

What will students see and do?

Kew Gardens is London’s largest UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its collection of plants is the most diverse anywhere in the world.

With its world-famous research centre on-site too, it’s the perfect place for school science trips, and ideal for helping students understand the natural world.

Visitors to Kew Gardens can expect to see plants from across the planet and will have the unique opportunity to experience ten of the world’s climatic zones.

There are different greenhouses, each with the right climate for their diverse flora to thrive.

Other exciting aspects about a visit to the garden include an 18-metre-high treetop walk, from which students will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the gardens below.

These are just some of the highlights on offer. You can book a self-led visit or opt for an education session with an expert, who will guide students through the wonders of the science behind Kew with a focus on outdoor learning.

How does the trip link to the curriculum?

Book an education session at Kew Gardens and you’ll get an expert guide who will tailor the workshop to your learning objectives. All sessions link directly to the curriculum, as students get a deep insight into the scientific work that takes place at Kew. Maths, English, geography and art are also all covered.

The teachers who lead the education sessions are all highly experienced and focus on enquiry-based learning. Students are encouraged to develop a sense of curiosity for the natural world, and to actively participate in sessions.

The sessions have a different focus depending on the Key Stage of your group.

EYFS children use hands-on play to explore the magical world of plants. They learn how they grow and why each part of the plant is essential. You can also choose a ‘story explorers’ session for younger children.

Key Stage 1 children explore habitats and minibeasts, and play plant hunters and plant scientists. They also learn about the effect of the seasons and the weather on the plant life at Kew. Another great session for KS1 is ‘Maths in the Great Outdoors’.

Key Stage 2 sessions inspire pupils to become more curious about plants, the world and its people. They learn about evolution and adaptation as well as art in nature, and can also investigate historical botanists and naturalists.

Key Stage 3 sessions focus on science and geography. Students learn all about geosystems, plant structures, adaptations, photosynthesis, microclimates and biodiversity.

Key Stage 4 sessions are mapped to the GCSE biology curriculum. Students learn about plant pathogens, pests and diseases, and plant reproduction, plus topics such as food security and natural resources.

Key Stage 5 sessions align with A-level curriculums, focusing on conservation and biodiversity, energy and recycling in ecosystems, and water and carbon cycles.

Subjects covered

Details of risk assessment

It is the responsibility of school leaders to complete a risk assessment prior to visiting, as the needs of each group are different. There is an example risk assessment available on the Kew Gardens website.

You will also need to brief your students before the trip not to partake in risky activities such as climbing trees or going too close to lakes and ponds.

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