Youth courses

Bio-Science Holiday Course

The National Zoological Garden in Pretoria has a brand-new course for high school learners during the school holidays

What is this all about? To put it simply, by attending this course you will explore lots and lots of SCIENTIFIC things about LIFE on Earth – hence the name “Bio-Science”. We will discover these slowly but surely in a fun and participatory, exploring way, using our eyes, hands and brains to unfurl the intricacies of nature. Cool!! But this not where it ends.

We will also look at the applications of all this in our modern world. What does it take to become a veterinarian? Or would you rather like to become a geneticist? Or a zoo manager? What is the role of a biobank? Or a databank? How does an understanding of DNA contribute to improving people’s lives?

The Directorate Biodiversity Education and Public Engagement of the National Zoological Garden in Pretoria will offer this Bio-Science course during the school holidays.

The course is offered for learners from grade 8 – 12.

This course teaches learners about biodiversity, the environment, bioscience and conservation while giving the opportunities to have hands-on experiences and exploring the facilities in the zoo. The Bio-Science course aims to give learners a knowledge and especially an understanding of biodiversity and life sciences.

It also prepares them for possible careers in these fields. After successfully completing the course, learners may join the ZooClub, a group of young volunteers. This club meets regularly, undertakes excursions and participates in life science competitions.

The programme includes the following highlights:

Day 1