Education Programmes

We have education programmes for all ages, suitable for schools, learning organisations and home educators. You can either bring your students to us, and/or have an online session via Zoom, MS Teams, Google Meet, etc.

Distance Learning

Book an online session with astronomy educator Space Dave and/or help yourself to our other resources. Learn more or book a session now...

LEOTC: School Visits / Field Trips

A trip to Te Awamutu Space Centre is an experience your students won't forget. The venue is full of interesting displays and interactive activities to fire the imagination for all ages (including adults). It's truly immersive and children are always eager to share what they find and learn. You'll probably hear them talking about it long after they have returned to school.

Schools travel from around the Waikato and even farther to visit us. It's worth the effort!

We also host visits by homeschool groups (click for details).

How it Works

You should allow two to three hours for your visit. The exact format is flexible but it normally works like this...

PART 1: Presentation
Dave Owen (AKA "Space Dave") delivers an audio-visual presentation for up to about an hour. This includes plenty of time for audience participation and questions.
PART 2: Exploration
60–90 minutes of exploration and activities, during which students explore the displays and interactive activities, and optionally complete paper-based challenges (quizzes, etc).

You can take a break at any stage for a run around outside, have some food, etc.

Cost: $7 per student.

Teachers and adult helpers are free (but please note the limit on adult numbers below).
If you can't afford our standard rates, we have some subsidies available for schools or students in high need. Please ask if you'd like to apply for a subsidy.
You can pay in advance, on the day of the visit, or we can invoice you after the visit.

Numbers: We can accommodate up to 80 students at a time. We recommend the following adult/student ratios:

Year 0–3: 1/5
Year 4–6: 1/6
Year 7–8: 1/7
Year 9+: 1/15

IMPORTANT: We need adult helpers who are able and willing to supervise and assist students. Please only bring adults who have agreed to this, and please only bring as many adults as you need. For more information see preparing for your visit.

Wheelchair access: The venue is wheelchair-accessible (click here for access details).

Preparing for your trip: Before you plan your trip it is very important that you read our page about preparing for your visit.

Dates: Click the booking button to see available dates:

"Totally recommend this to all you teachers out there... Our kids love Spaceman Dave."
- Kim Tautari-Scott, Teacher, Te Awamutu Primary School

"The passion, enthusiasm, and knowledge that Dave had when speaking about the Solar System had students spellbound. They were full of questions and wanting more. He is an outstanding educator who instills a passion for learning."
- Tracy Ellis, Teacher, Te Awamutu Intermediate

TE AWAMUTU SPACE CENTRE