Victorian Challenge and Enrichment Series
Free extension opportunities for high-ability students supported by the Department of Education’s Student Excellence Program.
Exciting news! VCES funding has been confirmed for 2027-2028!
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is delighted to announce that we have successfully secured funding through the Victorian Challenge and Enrichment Series (VCES) for 2027–2028!
Supported by the Department of Education's Student Excellence Program, we will continue to offer free, nature-inspired STEM learning opportunities for high-ability students in Victorian government schools through two exciting programs:
The Biomimicry Project – STEM Connections (Years 3–10): Inspiring students to explore nature's remarkable designs and apply creative thinking, science and innovation to real-world challenges.
Nature Did It First – STEM Foundations (Foundation–Year 2): Introducing our youngest learners to nature-inspired STEM through curiosity, discovery and hands-on exploration.
Expressions of Interest are now open!
Further program details and booking information for 2027–2028 will be available soon.
Teachers and parents interested in these opportunities are encouraged submit an Expression of Interest to receive updates and information about upcoming program bookings.
We look forward to inspiring the next generation of curious thinkers, creative problem-solvers and nature-inspired innovators!
2026 VCES Programs – Final Places Available
Our 2026 VCES programs, Young Botanists and The Biomimicry Project, are wrapping up for the year, with only a limited number of student places remaining.
Interested schools are encouraged to enquire soon to secure one of the final opportunities for 2026.
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is a proud partner of the Victorian Challenge and Enrichment Series which provides opportunities for high-ability Victorian Government School students to participate in the creative Young Botanists Art Series (Years F-2) and nature-based STEM program, The Biomimicry Project – Student Design Challenge (Years 3-10).
If you are a teacher or parent/carer of high-ability Victorian Government School students, apply today!
Please Note: The Department of Education has Terms and Conditions as a requirement of VCES registration.
