Volunteer With Us

The Bush Kinder Volunteer Support role assists the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) to deliver engaging, nature‑based learning experiences for kindergarten‑aged children (3–5 years). Volunteers play a vital role in helping children build confidence in outdoor environments, develop an early connection to nature, and enjoy meaningful intergenerational experiences.

Volunteers will attend sessions alongside NTAV staff and other volunteers, supporting program delivery, encouraging curiosity and exploration, and helping to create a welcoming and safe garden environment for young children. In short creating an intergeneratoinal opportunities for kids to be out in nature, with nice people learning.  The tasks are simple, such as weeding, racking and mulching, and the focus is on engagement rather than efficiency. 

Location: Como House and Gardens, Kitchen Garden
Department: Public Programs
Reports to: Site Supervisor and Stephanie Robinson, Public Programs Coordinator

Program dates & commitment:

• Ongoing during school terms (the program does not run during school holidays)
• Every second Tuesday, 8.30am – 12.00pm
• Commencing 19 May and running through to December 2026
• (Times subject to confirmation depending on kindergarten bookings)

Minimum commitment:

• Approximately 2 hours per week, with a minimum commitment of twice per month

Volunteer Duties & Key Responsibilities can include : 

• Supporting the Public Programs team to prepare age‑appropriate gardening and nature‑based activities (with guidance from supervisors)
• Interacting positively and respectfully with kindergarten‑aged children
• Assisting staff to guide children through garden‑based activities
• Supporting simple gardening tasks such as planting, raking, and mulching
  (Activities focus on children’s experience and exploration rather than efficiency)
• Supporting garden scavenger hunts and supervised free play
• Helping ensure children can explore the garden safely and confidently

Skills, Experience & Attributes (Desirable)

• Gardening experience
• Interest in sharing a love of gardening and nature, particularly with young children
• Experience working with kindergarten‑aged children (3–5 years)
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
• Friendly, patient, and supportive approach

Benefits to Volunteers

• Opportunity to share a love of gardening and nature with the next generation
• Meaningful intergenerational connection
• Wellbeing benefits of spending time outdoors
• Hands‑on involvement in a nature‑based learning program
• Free entry to Como House and Gardens, including guided tours, events, and exhibitions (on application)
• Joining a vibrant volunteer community with access to meetings, events, and NTAV outings

Training provided:

• NTAV standard volunteer induction
• Bush Kinder program‑specific training

Required documentation:

• Working With Children Check (WWCC)
• Police Check