Here at Birmingham Botanical Gardens, we offer a `school trip` like no other. You can explore our unique glasshouses and experience an authentic rainforest adventure! Then, walk straight from experiencing hot and humid tropical conditions, through the Mediterranean House and into a desert climate, and observe the adaptations the different plants have made. Then, wander down to the Alpine Yard and Rock Garden to marvel at the `otherworldly` flora found on the Tundra.
Why book Birmingham Botanical Gardens for School Trips and Educational Visits?
The Gardens contain over 7,000 different plants from all around the world. Experience the humidity and smells of the Tropical House, look (but don’t touch!) with wonder at the carnivorous plants in the Subtropical House, admire the fruits and flowers of the Mediterranean House, and marvel at the bizarre and fascinating ways that cacti have developed to protect themselves in the harsh environment of the world’s deserts (Arid House). Don’t forget to allow plenty of time, in addition, to wander around the stunning grounds seeing the giant Koi Carp and Victorian Cascade in the Rock Garden, stop and smell the many herbs in our Herb Garden, be fascinated by our exotic bird collection from all over the world and play on our amazing new Treetops Adventure playground (if you've been good)!
What activities are available during group visits?
We have over 20 cross-curricular teaching sessions to choose from, that are specifically aimed at the different key stages, and all of which link to the new National Curriculum. As examples, there is `Tree Fun` for EYFS, `Food Chains` for KS1, `Growth` for KS2, `Natural Art` for KS3 and `Animal Handling` for KS4. Furthermore, we are happy to organise bespoke teaching sessions that match any subject or topic.
New for 2019 – Sensational Science (duration: 1 hour)
Have your students ever seen plant DNA? Have they ever used a potato to tell the time? What’s special about cabbage? Are leaves really green? Here at the Gardens, we obviously think plants are amazing. So, have your students don their lab coat and safety glasses (provided), and investigate for themselves just how amazing in our new practical, laboratory-style teaching session. Indoor session.
You can also choose to visit on a self-guided basis, where teachers can plan and lead their own day.
What size groups do you cater for?
Up to 6 classes per day (180 children).
Do you offer on-site classroom facilities?
Our teaching sessions take place in our dedicated classrooms, but also outside in the Gardens or within our Glasshouses. A covered lunch space will be provided for visiting groups (if requested). `Picnics` are also permitted anywhere in the grounds, if you can trust the weather!
Is there first aid on site?
We do have trained first aiders onsite, but because of the size of the Gardens, we ask educational parties to bring their own first aider. First aid equipment is located within easy reach, though we recommend bringing your own first aid equipment too.
Do you offer access for visitors with disabilities?
Of course. Our teaching spaces, lunch rooms, Glasshouses and outdoor Gardens are all wheelchair accessible.
Do you cater for visitors with Special Educational Needs (SEN)?
Of course. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.
Anything else?
We offer a wide range of free resources (e.g. trails, quizzes, activity packs), which are available to download from our website, and can be used on the day of the visit, or in the classroom beforehand or afterwards.
Our Shop is available for children (and adults) to purchase a souvenir of their visit. Goody bags can also be arranged if teachers prefer not to visit the shop but still want to make a purchase.
Our Pavilion Tea Room is available for children and adults to purchase drinks, lunches and snacks.
The Gardens hold regular school holiday events, which can be visited independently, or with your school if it has different term dates.
Please feel free to take as many photos as you want, and share as freely as you like.
Reviews from Schools visiting Birmingham Botanical Gardens!
Online Resources for School Groups
Educational Resources Available..
A huge range of free educational resources covering subjects including Art, Science, Geography, Maths, English and Sustainable Development.
https://www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk/education/educational-resources/
Teacher Checklist 
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| LOtC Quality Badge |
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follow on InstagramBiology and Wildlife at Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Your class can explore climatic-themed glasshouses and 15 acres of landscaped gardens exploring a range of biology and wildlife topics.
