Kristy, Education Officer

This week Taronga Western Plains Zoo staff were excited to announce the launch of the Taronga Teachers Association (TTA) with an event held at the Zoo. With over 40 teachers at the event from as far as Orange, Neville and Nyngan, it was a great way to launch a new professional forum for teachers interested in environmental education. The teachers were treated to animal encounters and a special night tour, after hearing from a guest speaker, Michelle Sanders from Australia Post Kids Teaching Kids. Teachers were provided information about how Kids Teaching Kids can support schools and students as they develop workshops and find solutions to environmental problems. The Taronga Western Plains Zoo Education team has already supported a number of regional Kids Teaching Kids events through their Zoomobile program and are looking to host an event at the Zoo later in the year.

The Taronga Teachers Association is committed to supporting and assisting teachers to become more effective environmental educators. The association will offer quality professional development and learning opportunities to teachers that will positively impact on their teaching and learning. In 2011 the TTA will run workshops, behind the scenes tours, guest lectures and animal encounters all with a view to inspire and empower teachers.