The education programme was formally founded in January 2007 with the help of a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. During 2008. We are also very grateful to The Ernest Cook Trust, their support has helped to ensure the continued provision of an Education Officer on a full-time basis. Full details of all of those who have supported the Education Programme, as well as details of projects for which sponsorship is still required, can be found on our Sponsors Page .

The programme is being developed with help from Kew Gardens, Wakehurst Place and local primary and secondary school teachers.

The aims of the education programme are:

• To encourage interest in the natural environment and promote understanding of the importance of conservation.
• To encourage an understanding and appreciation of trees.
• To work with school groups to provide high quality learning outside the classroom meeting national curriculum objectives.
• To establish The Arboretum Trust as a centre for the interpretation and teaching of practical ecology, conservation, biodiversity assessment and arboretum management.
• To network effectively with leading universities, colleges, schools and other botanical/horticultural institutions to develop relevant plant science education.

Meet a tree