Over the last few years, the botanical section of the Argotti Gardens has been undergoing extensive renovations. Considerable changes have been made including a purpose built herbarium to house the collection of dried plants.

To continue promoting the educational value of the gardens, an invitation is again being extended to schools for organised tours during the scholastic year. One-hour visits will comprise a short talk, a tour of the gardens and some hands-on practical exercises.

Groups should not exceed 25 students and must be accompanied by a teacher. Two groups from the same school can visit on the same morning. Talks and tours will be adapted to different age groups. Year 3 primary to Fifth and Sixth Form students are welcome. Separate arrangements can be made for biology, ecology and geography teachers who would be most welcome to bring their groups for botany related

lectures and practical exercises.

The tours will be held every Thursday and Friday morning and are strictly by appointment. These school visits are a joint initiative between the University of Malta and the Curriculum Department (Education Division) in the Ministry of Education, Youth and Employment.

This year all primary and secondary school students visiting Argotti Botanic Gardens will be eligible to participate in a drawing competition and the best works will be exhibited at a future date. Primary and secondary school students (two categories) are asked to draw a colour poster with the theme “My Visit to Argotti Gardens”. Book tokens will be awarded to winners of the two categories.

A special award will also be given to schools. The school with the greatest number of entries in each category will be rewarded with 10 indigenous trees or plants to be used on the school premises.

Further information can be obtained from Argotti Botanic Gardens (University of Malta Section). e-mail: [email protected]. Tel: 2124 8984 / 2123 3485