Julia Willison

Julia Willison has significant work experience in the field of education and botanic gardens. Julia served as the Head of Learning and Participation at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, where they led a team in developing and providing various engaging learning and participation activities focused on plant science and the environment. This included formal learning programs for teachers and students, visitor learning activities during festivals, managing guides and volunteers, community outreach initiatives, and programs for people with additional needs. Prior to this, Julia was the Director of Education at Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI). In this role, they were responsible for the strategic direction of education, served as the editor of the education review "Roots," coordinated the INQUIRE project to promote inquiry-based science education, and led an international initiative aimed at engaging botanic gardens with their local communities.

Julia Willison's education history includes a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) with a focus on Primary Education with Science from Cardiff University/Prifysgol Caerdydd in 1984-1985. Julia also obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Swansea University in 1989-1992. Later, they pursued a Master's Degree in Education and Development Education from London South Bank University in 1995-1998. Additionally, they were a fellow of Cohort 6 at the Noyce Leadership Institute from 2013-2014.