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Open Today: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. All Hours

School Programs: Grades 1 – 8

Elementary School Programs

Our Elementary programs aim to inspire curiosity, discovery, and connection in a natural setting. Through games, explorations, and discussions, students learn about the importance of healthy natural spaces, and their place within them!

About Our Programs

  • Two-hour outdoor programs
  • Up to 30 students per group
  • Grades 1 and up: 1 free adult per 5 students
Educational Field Trip

Grade 1 Programs

Through games and open exploration, students will discover the ways in which animals adapt and survive in nature. While exploring our trails, students will search for wild creatures and the signs they leave behind! 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B1.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.6 

All around the world plants grow, change, and are affected by the environment around them. This program uses interactive games and activities to explore characteristics of soil and the needs of plants. Students will discover Indigenous uses of plants and ways to protect the environment. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B1.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.6 

Using nature as both muse and medium, students unleash their creativity in this nature arts program. Following an inspirational walk on the trails, students will apply the Creative Process to create artwork which represents grade-appropriate curriculum connections. A hands-on, collaborative program that encourages social emotional learning to build personal connections to the natural world. 

Curriculum Connections: The Arts D1.1, 1.3, 1.4, 2.1, 2.2 

Whether taking in the fall colours, tracking deer through the snow, or discovering spring flowers, this program will allow students to connect with the forests, fields, and fauna in RBG’s forests and gardens. This half-day program can be tailored to complement desired curricula upon request. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology, Strand B 

Nature in winter might seem quiet, but there is more going on than you think! Put on your toque and mittens and head out for an exploration of RBG’s winter world. Explore the trails of the Arboretum to find out how plants and animals adapt and survive during Canada’s coldest months, then come sit by a campfire to listen to some animal stories. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B1.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.6  

For a limited time, enjoy two field trips in one! Explore the cosmos with Astronomy in Action’s through a 45 minute immersive journey into space, then return to RBG and Earth for curriculum-connected hands-on activities examining terrestrial plants and animals.

Come explore RBG’s gardens or trails with your class. The Arboretum offers trails through the forest down to the shoreline of Coote’s Paradise Marsh with great opportunities for birdwatching. 

Come explore the gardens with your class. Hendrie Park’s collections include a garden of healing plants, a spectacular rose garden, a wild plant garden, and plants from around the world. 

Grade 2 Programs

Through games and open exploration, students will discover the ways in which animals adapt and survive in nature. While exploring our trails, students will search for wild creatures and the signs they leave behind! 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B1.2, B2 

Using nature as both muse and medium, students unleash their creativity in this nature arts program. Following an inspirational walk on the trails, students will apply the Creative Process to create artwork which represents grade-appropriate curriculum connections. A hands-on, collaborative program that encourages social emotional learning to build personal connections to the natural world. 

Curriculum Connections: The Arts D1, 2.1, 2.2 

Whether taking in the fall colours, tracking deer through the snow, or discovering spring flowers, this program will allow students to connect with the forests, fields, and fauna in RBG’s forests and gardens. This half-day program can be tailored to complement desired curricula upon request. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology, Strand B 

The Wicked Witch may love poppies, but what pollinators would visit them? Journey through the magical land of Oz to uncover the fascinating relationships between flowers and their pollinators. Students will investigate how these connections sustain ecosystems then apply their discoveries to solve a pollination mystery, blending science with imagination in a world where nature meets fantasy.

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.5

Nature in winter might seem quiet, but there is more going on than you think.! Put on your toque and mittens and head out for an exploration of RBG’s winter world. Explore the trails of the Arboretum to find out how plants and animals adapt and survive during Canada’s coldest months, then come sit by a campfire to listen to some animal stories.  

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B1.2, B2 

Discover the vibrant connection between art and nature through the imaginative lens of Oz! This creative program invites students to explore color, character, and environment while expressing their artistic vision.

Curriculum Connections: The Arts D1, 2.1, 2.2  

For a limited time, enjoy two field trips in one! Explore the cosmos with Astronomy in Action’s through a 45 minute immersive journey into space, then return to RBG and Earth for curriculum-connected hands-on activities examining terrestrial plants and animals.

Come explore RBG’s gardens or trails with your class. The Arboretum offers trails through the forest down to the shoreline of Coote’s Paradise Marsh with great opportunities for birdwatching. 

Come explore the gardens with your class. Hendrie Park’s collections include a garden of healing plants, a spectacular rose garden, a wild plant garden, and plants from around the world. 

Grade 3 Programs

All around the world plants grow, change, and are affected by the environment around them. This program uses interactive games and activities to explore characteristics of soil and the needs of plants. Students will discover Indigenous uses of plants and ways to protect the environment. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B1, B2, E1, E2.2, 2.3

Using nature as both muse and medium, students unleash their creativity in this nature arts program. Following an inspirational walk on the trails, students will apply the Creative Process to create artwork which represents grade-appropriate curriculum connections. A hands-on, collaborative program that encourages social emotional learning to build personal connections to the natural world. 

Curriculum Connections: The Arts D1, 2.1, 2.2 

Whether taking in the fall colours, tracking deer through the snow, or discovering spring flowers, this program will allow students to connect with the forests, fields, and fauna in RBG’s forests and gardens. This half-day program can be tailored to complement desired curricula upon request. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology, Strand B 

Discover the incredible designs found in the natural world! In this interactive program, students explore different types of structures in nature, the materials that form them, and the forces they endure. A hands-on design challenge invites students to work in teams to build a shelter for an animal that can withstand natural elements. The experience continues outdoors with a guided nature walk, where students observe real-life examples—from towering trees to intricate nests and cozy burrows.

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology A1.3, 1.5, B2.2, C1.1, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, D1.2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.7

Nature in winter might seem quiet, but there is more going on than you think! Put on your toque and mittens and head out for an exploration of RBG’s winter world. Explore the trails of the Arboretum to find out how plants and animals adapt and survive during Canada’s coldest months, then come sit by a campfire to listen to some animal stories.  

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B1, B2 

The Wicked Witch may love poppies, but what pollinators would visit them? Journey through the magical land of Oz to uncover the fascinating relationships between flowers and their pollinators. Students will investigate how these connections sustain ecosystems then apply their discoveries to solve a pollination mystery, blending science with imagination in a world where nature meets fantasy.

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B1.1, 1.2, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4

Discover the vibrant connection between art and nature through the imaginative lens of Oz! This creative program invites students to explore color, character, and environment while expressing their artistic vision.

Curriculum Connections: The Arts D1, 2.1, 2.2  

For a limited time, enjoy two field trips in one! Explore the cosmos with Astronomy in Action’s through a 45 minute immersive journey into space, then return to RBG and Earth for curriculum-connected hands-on activities examining terrestrial plants and animals.

Come explore RBG’s gardens or trails with your class. The Arboretum offers trails through the forest down to the shoreline of Coote’s Paradise Marsh with great opportunities for birdwatching. 

Come explore the gardens with your class. Hendrie Park’s collections include a garden of healing plants, a spectacular rose garden, a wild plant garden, and plants from around the world. 

Grade 4 Programs

Through hands-on exploration and activities, students will discover and identify species that live in various habitats and determine how humans can have positive or negative impacts on the environment. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B1, B2 

The Niagara Escarpment provides a wealth of opportunities to learn about rocks, minerals and the natural processes that shape our landscape. Students will conduct a series of experiments to identify different minerals. During a nature walk, they’ll take part in an erosion activity and examine ancient fossils that are part of our local environment.

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology E1.1, E2 

Using nature as both muse and medium, students unleash their creativity in this nature arts program. Following an inspirational walk on the trails, students will apply the Creative Process to create artwork which represents grade-appropriate curriculum connections. A hands-on, collaborative program that encourages social emotional learning to build personal connections to the natural world. 

Curriculum Connections: The Arts D1 

Whether taking in the fall colours, tracking deer through the snow, or discovering spring flowers, this program will allow students to connect with the forests, fields, and fauna in RBG’s forests and gardens. This half-day program can be tailored to complement desired curricula upon request. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology, Strand B 

Nature in winter might seem quiet, but there is more going on than you think! Put on your toque and mittens and head out for an exploration of RBG’s winter world. Explore the trails of the Arboretum to find out how plants and animals adapt and survive during Canada’s coldest months, then come sit by a campfire to listen to some animal stories.  

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B1, B2 

The Wicked Witch may love poppies, but what pollinators would visit them? Journey through the magical land of Oz to uncover the fascinating relationships between flowers and their pollinators. Students will investigate how these connections sustain ecosystems then apply their discoveries to solve a pollination mystery, blending science with imagination in a world where nature meets fantasy.

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B1, B2

Step into the magical world of Oz while exploring the science of adaptation and ecosystems! This interactive program connects Ontario’s natural habitats to the fantastical landscapes of Oz, encouraging students to think critically about survival strategies and food webs.

Curriculum Connections: B2.1, 2.3, 2.4, 2.6

Discover the vibrant connection between art and nature through the imaginative lens of Oz! This creative program invites students to explore color, character, and environment while expressing their artistic vision.

Curriculum Connections: The Arts D1, 2.1, 2.2 

For a limited time, enjoy two field trips in one! Explore the cosmos with Astronomy in Action’s through a 45 minute immersive journey into space, then return to RBG and Earth for curriculum-connected hands-on activities examining terrestrial plants and animals.

Come explore RBG’s gardens or trails with your class. The Arboretum offers trails through the forest down to the shoreline of Coote’s Paradise Marsh with great opportunities for birdwatching. 

Come explore the gardens with your class. Hendrie Park’s collections include a garden of healing plants, a spectacular rose garden, a wild plant garden, and plants from around the world. 

Grade 5 Programs

Using nature as both muse and medium, students unleash their creativity in this nature arts program. Following an inspirational walk on the trails, students will apply the Creative Process to create artwork which represents grade-appropriate curriculum connections. A hands-on, collaborative program that encourages social emotional learning to build personal connections to the natural world. 

Curriculum Connections: The Arts D1, 2.2 

Whether taking in the fall colours, tracking deer through the snow, or discovering spring flowers, this program will allow students to connect with the forests, fields, and fauna in RBG’s forests and gardens. This half-day program can be tailored to complement desired curricula upon request. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology, Strand B 

Discover the incredible designs found in the natural world! In this interactive program, students explore different types of structures in nature, the materials that form them, and the forces they endure. A hands-on design challenge invites students to work in teams to build a shelter for an animal that can withstand natural elements. The experience continues outdoors with a guided nature walk, where students observe real-life examples—from towering trees to intricate nests and cozy burrows.

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology A1.3, 1.5, D1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4

The Wicked Witch may love poppies, but what pollinators would visit them? Journey through the magical land of Oz to uncover the fascinating relationships between flowers and their pollinators. Students will investigate how these connections sustain ecosystems then apply their discoveries to solve a pollination mystery, blending science with imagination in a world where nature meets fantasy.

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology 2 B1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.5; 3 B1.1, 1.2, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4; 4 B1, B2; 6 B1.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.5, 2.7

Discover the vibrant connection between art and nature through the imaginative lens of Oz! This creative program invites students to explore color, character, and environment while expressing their artistic vision.

Curriculum Connections: The Arts D1, 2.1, 2.2 

For a limited time, enjoy two field trips in one! Explore the cosmos with Astronomy in Action’s through a 45 minute immersive journey into space, then return to RBG and Earth for curriculum-connected hands-on activities examining terrestrial plants and animals.

Come explore RBG’s gardens or trails with your class. The Arboretum offers trails through the forest down to the shoreline of Coote’s Paradise Marsh with great opportunities for birdwatching. 

Come explore the gardens with your class. Hendrie Park’s collections include a garden of healing plants, a spectacular rose garden, a wild plant garden, and plants from around the world. 

Grade 6 Programs

Through hands-on exploration and activities, students will discover and identify species that live in various habitats and determine how humans can have positive or negative impacts on the environment. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B1, B2 

What better way to learn about animal survival than to become one? With the Arboretum as their playing field, students are challenged to think strategically as they take on the role of an animal seeking the necessities for survival. Students will apply social emotional skills to collaborate with teammates and learn first-hand about the natural and human obstacles animals face every day. This program pairs well with any other program. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B2.1, 2.3, 2.5, Health and Physical Education; Strand A 

Students will discover this sophisticated conservation tool in action with an up-close look at the fish that pass through the Fishway between Hamilton Harbour and Cootes Paradise. Our ecologists explain the function of the Fishway, and our interpreters take the students through the complex history and current restoration of Cootes Paradise Marsh. This program takes place at our Princess Point location. 

Curriculum Connections: B1, B2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7 

Using nature as both muse and medium, students unleash their creativity in this nature arts program. Following an inspirational walk on the trails, students will apply the Creative Process to create artwork which represents grade-appropriate curriculum connections. A hands-on, collaborative program that encourages social emotional learning to build personal connections to the natural world. 

Curriculum Connections: The Arts D1, 2.2 

Whether taking in the fall colours, tracking deer through the snow, or discovering spring flowers, this program will allow students to connect with the forests, fields, and fauna in RBG’s forests and gardens. This half-day program can be tailored to complement desired curricula upon request. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology, Strand B 

The Wicked Witch may love poppies, but what pollinators would visit them? Journey through the magical land of Oz to uncover the fascinating relationships between flowers and their pollinators. Students will investigate how these connections sustain ecosystems then apply their discoveries to solve a pollination mystery, blending science with imagination in a world where nature meets fantasy.

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B1.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.5, 2.7

Discover the vibrant connection between art and nature through the imaginative lens of Oz! This creative program invites students to explore color, character, and environment while expressing their artistic vision.

Curriculum Connections: The Arts D1, 2.1, 2.2 

Step into the magical world of Oz while exploring the science of adaptation and ecosystems! This interactive program connects Ontario’s natural habitats to the fantastical landscapes of Oz, encouraging students to think critically about survival strategies and food webs.

Curriculum Connections: B1.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.7

For a limited time, enjoy two field trips in one! Explore the cosmos with Astronomy in Action’s through a 45 minute immersive journey into space, then return to RBG and Earth for curriculum-connected hands-on activities examining terrestrial plants and animals.

Come explore RBG’s gardens or trails with your class. The Arboretum offers trails through the forest down to the shoreline of Coote’s Paradise Marsh with great opportunities for birdwatching. 

Come explore the gardens with your class. Hendrie Park’s collections include a garden of healing plants, a spectacular rose garden, a wild plant garden, and plants from around the world. 

Grade 7 Programs

Students will learn about the challenges and successes that our local wetlands experience due to climate change and human interactions. Hands-on components will include identifying aquatic invertebrates and assessing water quality while exploring Cootes Paradise Marsh. Students will consider Indigenous ways of thinking about environmental sustainability. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B1, B2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.8 

Designed in collaboration with Anishinaabe Elders, this program takes students on an interpretive hike that highlights the traditional and current uses of a variety of native plants. This cross-curricular experience will help you see the forest in a completely new way! 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology Strand B; History Strand A 

What better way to learn about animal survival than to become one? With the Arboretum as their playing field, students are challenged to think strategically as they take on the role of an animal seeking the necessities for survival. Students will apply social emotional skills to collaborate with teammates and learn first-hand about the natural and human obstacles animals face every day. This program pairs well with any other program. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B2.1, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, Health and Physical Education; Strand A 

Fishway school programs are available Monday-Thursday with groups scheduled from 12-2pm only. They are available from the last week of April through June.

Students will discover this sophisticated conservation tool in action with an up-close look at the fish that pass through the Fishway between Hamilton Harbour and Cootes Paradise. Our ecologists explain the function of the Fishway, and our interpreters take the students through the complex history and current restoration of Cootes Paradise Marsh. This program takes place at our Princess Point location. As there is no building (or bathroom!) onsite, the school bus is required to remain onsite for the duration of the program in case a sheltered space is required.

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology B1.2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.7 

Whether taking in the fall colours, tracking deer through the snow, or discovering spring flowers, this program will allow students to connect with the forests, fields, and fauna in RBG’s forests and gardens. This half-day program can be tailored to complement desired curricula upon request. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology, Strand B 

Explore the science of heat, energy, and climate change through hands-on experiments and outdoor ecological discovery. Students will investigate how heat moves through natural and built environments, examine the effect of climate change on biodiversity, and learn how sustainable choices can reduce environmental impact, empowering students to think critically and act responsibly for a greener future.

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology A1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, B1.1, 1.2, E1.1, 2.2, 2.4, 2.6

Discover the vibrant connection between art and nature through the imaginative lens of Oz! This creative program invites students to explore color, character, and environment while expressing their artistic vision.

Curriculum Connections: The Arts D1, 2.1, 2.2 

For a limited time, enjoy two field trips in one! Explore the cosmos with Astronomy in Action’s through a 45 minute immersive journey into space, then return to RBG and Earth for curriculum-connected hands-on activities examining terrestrial plants and animals.

Come explore RBG’s gardens or trails with your class. The Arboretum offers trails through the forest down to the shoreline of Coote’s Paradise Marsh with great opportunities for birdwatching. 

Come explore the gardens with your class. Hendrie Park’s collections include a garden of healing plants, a spectacular rose garden, a wild plant garden, and plants from around the world. 

Grade 8 Programs

Students will learn about the challenges and successes that our local wetlands experience due to climate change and human interactions. Hands-on components will include identifying aquatic invertebrates and assessing water quality while exploring Cootes Paradise Marsh. Students will consider Indigenous ways of thinking about environmental sustainability. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology E1, E2.1, 2.4, 2.6 

Designed in collaboration with Anishinaabe Elders, this program takes students on an interpretive hike that highlights the traditional and current uses of a variety of native plants. This cross-curricular experience will help you see the forest in a completely new way! 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology Strand E, History Strand B 

What better way to learn about animal survival than to become one? With the Arboretum as their playing field, students are challenged to think strategically as they take on the role of an animal seeking the necessities for survival. Students will apply social emotional skills to collaborate with teammates and learn first-hand about the natural and human obstacles animals face every day. This program pairs well with any other program. 

Curriculum Connections: Health and Physical Education Strand A 

Fishway school programs are available Monday-Thursday with groups scheduled from 12-2pm only. They are available from the last week of April through June.

Students will discover this sophisticated conservation tool in action with an up-close look at the fish that pass through the Fishway between Hamilton Harbour and Cootes Paradise. Our ecologists explain the function of the Fishway, and our interpreters take the students through the complex history and current restoration of Cootes Paradise Marsh. This program takes place at our Princess Point location. As there is no building (or bathroom!) onsite, the school bus is required to remain onsite for the duration of the program in case a sheltered space is required.

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology E1.1, 1.3, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.6, 2.7 

Whether taking in the fall colours, tracking deer through the snow, or discovering spring flowers, this program will allow students to connect with the forests, fields, and fauna in RBG’s forests and gardens. This half-day program can be tailored to complement desired curricula upon request. 

Curriculum Connections: Science and Technology, Strand B 

For a limited time, enjoy two field trips in one! Explore the cosmos with Astronomy in Action’s through a 45 minute immersive journey into space, then return to RBG and Earth for curriculum-connected hands-on activities examining terrestrial plants and animals.

Discover the vibrant connection between art and nature through the imaginative lens of Oz! This creative program invites students to explore color, character, and environment while expressing their artistic vision.

Curriculum Connections: The Arts D1, 2.1, 2.2 

Come explore RBG’s gardens or trails with your class. The Arboretum offers trails through the forest down to the shoreline of Coote’s Paradise Marsh with great opportunities for birdwatching. 

Come explore the gardens with your class. Hendrie Park’s collections include a garden of healing plants, a spectacular rose garden, a wild plant garden, and plants from around the world. 

School Program Fees

RBG accepts cash, cheque, debit, VISA, MasterCard, and American Express. Invoicing is available upon request.