In 2010 a group of museum educators established the Western Cape Museum Educator (WCME) Group out of a need for professional development and networking opportunities. Since then the Group has group met regularly to share experiences with peers, learn about new ideas and discuss common issues related to our field.
Currently, we have over 90 individual members from 40 institutions across the Peninsula. Anyone doing experiential education programmes is welcome to join – environmental educators, science educators, those working at heritage sites etc. Membership is free.
Meetings are held three times a year with topics generated by the group. Meetings are hosted by members of the group and are rotated. They always include a taster of site’s programmes so we get a chance to see what others do. A Google Groups listserve allows us to communicate between meetings. Administration is done by volunteers from within the group.
For more information contact: Helen Joannides h_joannides@hotmail.com
In 2015, the WCME Group, with the generous support of SAMA Western Cape, held the first Fieldtrip Fair at The Chavonnes Battery Museum, V&A Waterfront. Teachers were invited to pop-in and see exhibitors from museums; heritage sites; environmental and science sites etc. showcase what they offer schools. We had food, speakers, draw prizes and a fun, festive atmosphere. Since this first Fair we have had two more in 2016 and 2018 and have made it a bi-annual event.
In 2018, the Fair was hosted by the Western Cape Education Department, Metro North. We had 35 exhibitors and over 250 teachers from 80 different schools attend. We have formed a good relationship with key Education Department
