Community Learning Programme

From creative writing to music making and knitting, we offer a range of accessible opportunities for you to learn more about our science, history and horticulture.

Our Community Learning Programme is open to groups and individuals who are members of the Community Access Scheme (CAS) at Kew Gardens, and those who might otherwise face physical, sensory, psychological or social barriers to visiting Kew.

All sessions are free, and do not require any equipment or previous experience. If you would like to join a session, please email communitylearning@kew.org.

Knitting nature

Learn about Kew's science and rare plants through a friendly and engaging knit and natter group. All abilities welcome and materials will be provided.

Grow your knitting skills with our online activities

Seasonal sounds

Explore musical styles from around the world and learn about Kew's rare and endangered plants along the way. Take part in hands-on learning activities and explore the wellbeing benefits of collective music making. All abilities welcome, no musical experience necessary.

These sessions are for organisations and charities that focus on illness, recovery support and mental health.

To book, email communitylearning@kew.org.

Plant poets' corner

Immerse yourself in new styles of poetry and creative writing through prompts linked to Kew's collections and their stories, and discover new ways to express yourself.

Explore online poetry activities

Nature journalling

We run monthly Nature Journalling sessions with community groups to help people creatively connect to plants and fungi, all while exploring Kew.

Participants learn about plants from all over the world while being gently guided through arts activities to document observations in the Gardens.

Please get in touch with communitylearning@kew.org if you'd like to know more.

Botanical Art

Learn to look at plants differently in these inclusive, gentle and creative sessions.

Led by Kew's expert botanic artist, Lucy Smith, these workshops are slowly paced and suitable for all skill levels, giving participants the foundations needed to begin a botanic art journey.

Made possible by the generosity of Lise Spargo and JR Seeger.

Knitted version of the Victoria boliviana giant waterlily and its flower — Knitting Nature - *Victoria boliviana* © RBG Kew

Colourful knitted blanket with different squares, some spelling "Kew & food security" and some with knitted pictures of food — Knitting Nature - Kew and Food Security © RBG Kew

Knitted versions of colourful pot plants, against a garden backdrop — Knitting Nature pot plants © RBG Kew

Close up on knitted versions of colourful pot plants, against a garden backdrop — Knitting Nature Plants of the World © RBG Kew

Colourful crocheted string bags on a table in front of a garden bed — Knitting Nature recycled string bags © RBG Kew

Blue and red knitted baskets on a table in front of a garden bed — Knitting Nature recycled baskets © RBG Kew

Colourful fabric wall hanging with text "Wellbeing Woodland" above three different trees and illustrations of leaves — Knitting Nature - Wellbeing Woodland © RBG Kew

Knitted versions of fruit and vegetables including rhubarb, strawberries, carrots, parsnips, beans, peas and mushrooms — Knitting Nature edible garden © RBG Kew

Community Open Week 2021 group leader workshop © RBG Kew

Community Connectors

We want to hear from you!

Community Connectors are individuals who work in or with community groups and are interested in helping us develop our learning opportunities and resources. They represent various sectors of the community and assist our team as volunteer advisors.

We have quarterly meetings at Kew, providing a forum for networking, feedback, and informing what we do in the Gardens. All members are eligible for free CAS membership for their group.

Interested in becoming a Community Connector?

Fill out our expression of interest form

Get involved

If you are interested in volunteering for the Community Learning programme, please contact Communitylearning@kew.org

Get in touch to book

For more information and to book one of our activities please email us at communitylearning@kew.org.

If you would like to get involved in our Community Learning Programme, but are not currently a member of the Community Access Scheme at Kew Gardens, please get in touch.

All our activities are subject to our Community and Families booking Terms and Conditions

Read Kew's Outreach Strategy

Find out how we are connecting and engaging communities to protect nature, together.

Discover more