Gatsby Plant Science Education Programme

The Gatsby Plant Science Education Programme (GPSEP) supports the teaching and learning of plant science across all stages of education in the UK. We work with schools, colleges and universities to inspire the next generation of plant scientists and improve access to high-quality plant science education. The programme is core-funded by The Gatsby Charitable Foundation.

Main programmes

• Primary and secondary education
  • Science and Plants for Schools (SAPS)
    Develops curriculum-linked teaching resources and training for teachers to support plant science education in schools.
• Higher education and post-16 engagement
  • Gatsby Plant Science Summer School
    Supports undergraduate students with an interest in bioscience through a week-long summer school and higher education engagement activities.
  • Plant Science Futures
    Provides online careers information, student engagement activities and guidance for young people interested in plant science and bioscience.

Science and Plants for Schools (SAPS) works with teachers, schools and education partners to increase the presence of contemporary plant science in the curriculum and qualifications. The programme develops practical teaching resources, classroom activities and professional development opportunities for teachers.

SAPS supports plant science teaching across primary and secondary education and helps students explore how plant science connects to major global challenges, including food security, sustainability and biodiversity.

The Gatsby Plant Science Summer School supports post-16 undergraduate students who are interested in bioscience and plant research. The programme introduces students to current plant science research and university-level study through practical activities and engagement with researchers.

The summer schools help encourage talented students to consider further study and careers in plant science.

Plant Science Futures promotes opportunities in plant science for young people considering further study or careers in bioscience. The website highlights the wide range of careers available in plant science research, industry and related fields.

The project aims to inspire future scientists by showing how plant science research contributes to solving global challenges, including feeding a growing population and protecting biodiversity.