Zoo experiences can have a powerful impact on student learning, and knowing how to use these experiences to the greatest effect in the school environment can add value to your visits.

Zoo education staff present a number of professional development programs throughout the year that can be used to fulfil the Victorian Institute of Teaching requirements.

1. Teacher Previews

Teacher previews are conducted for many programs with an emphasis on curriculum support possibilities and how to best incorporate our zoo programs within the VELS and your school curriculum.
Teachers and educators are invited to these previews for free.

2. Teacher Professional Development

Sessions can include learning theory and its application to zoo experiences, practical activities for use in the classroom and pathways to link to other elements of the curricula or extra curricula activities.

Costs

2 hour sessions – $25 pp including entry
Includes: staffing (1), resources, Behind the Scenes, morning / afternoon tea
Minimum – 15 people

Half-day sessions – $45 pp including entry
Includes: staffing (2), resources, Behind the Scenes, morning / afternoon tea
Minimum – 15 people

Full day sessions – $85 pp including entry
Includes: staffing (2), resources, Behind the Scenes, morning / afternoon tea (Catering can be provided at an extra cost)
Minimum – 15 people

Delivery of Professional Development Sessions Off-site
Half day – $150 (minimum)
Full day – $300

To be undertaken on a need basis inclusive of staff member's time, preparation and travel involved.

3. Customised Professional Development

Zoos are amazing places for learning. Whether studying the characteristics of a particular animal (say its teeth) to describing its behavioural adaptations, or using the zoo setting as inspiration for writing and drawing, the zoo has something for everyone. 

Education staff can customise training to suit many different needs and topics. Some examples are:

• Dental students from a university looking at the different dentition patterns and diets of many of the Zoo’s fascinating creatures
• Masters of Leadership programs using metaphorical learning techniques focusing on human and animal behaviours
• TAFE tourism students examining the zoo visitor experience
• Drama students using animal movements as inspiration for performances