The University of Malta is promoting the educational value of the botanic gardens at the Argotti in Floriana with an invitation to schools for guided educational tours during the scholastic year, with 60-90 minute visits being envisaged.

The aim, the university said, is to make this an outdoor lesson with a difference. A tour of the gardens relates the plant displays to everyday classroom situations and to the general curriculum. A special emphasis is made on observations and explanations related to plant growth. Some hands-on practical exercises are also included.

The talks are adapted to different age groups. The visits cater for students from Year 1 primary to Fifth and Sixth Form students. Separate arrangements can be made for biology and geography teachers who are welcome to bring their groups for plant biology and ecology-related lectures and practicals. Groups should not exceed 25 students and must be accompanied by a teacher. Two or more groups from the same school may be accommodated in the same morning, although this would entail the second group having to wait for the first group to finish.

The history of Argotti Gardens is intricately linked with the study of botany, natural history and various medical sciences. Argotti Gardens have also been connected with the study of medicine and surgery. The university has had possession of these gardens since 1855, although the connection goes back to 1805.

The tours are to be held every day of the week, mornings only and are strictly by appointment. These school visits are a joint initiative between the University of Malta and the Curriculum Department (Education Division) of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Employment.

Further information and application forms are available at http://www.um.edu.mt/docs/argottischoolvisits07-08.pdf