Frog Lab HPGE program
Stage 2 and 3 Science and technology
Program
Frog lab: Science in the Wetlands is a one-day enrichment program for high potential and gifted Stage 2 and 3 students, held at the Kalkari Discovery Centre in the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.
Students will meet a frog expert, observe live native frogs, and apply scientific methods to investigate wetland health through habitat surveys and water quality testing. Designed to extend curious and capable learners, the program fosters critical thinking, environmental awareness, and real-world STEM skills in a unique and inspiring natural setting.
Learning intentions
Students are learning:
- how to identify frog species
- the adaptations of a variety of frog species
- to use scientific equipment to measure what frog need to survive
Special Notes
- One day workshop (9.15am-2.20pm)
- Maximum 6 students per school (DoE schools only)
- Teachers are NOT required to attend the workshop
- Teachers or parents are required to drop off and pick up students from the venue
- Capacity of 42 students each day
2026 Dates
2026 dates coming soon
Key information
Learning activities
Frog expert workshop
Students will undertake an exciting hands-on workshop led by a visiting frog expert. In this session, they will observe and learn about live native frog specimens, exploring fascinating features such as adaptations, calls, life cycles, and the vital role frogs play in wetland ecosystems. The workshop encourages deep questioning and scientific curiosity, offering students a unique opportunity to interact directly with a specialist in the field of herpetology and gain insight into real-world science careers.
Habitat walk
Students embark on a guided habitat walk through the bushland and water environments of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Along the way, they investigate the key elements of frog-friendly habitats, including shelter, moisture levels, vegetation, and the presence of predators or pollution. As they observe the landscape, students reflect on the impacts of human activity and consider how habitat quality influences frog populations in the wild.
Water quality testing
In this practical, science-focused activity, students become field scientists as they test water samples from a local creek using real scientific equipment. They then link their findings to the needs of amphibian species, gaining insight into the connections between environmental conditions and biodiversity.
Suggested timetable
| Time | Group A | Group B |
| 9.15am | Arrival | |
| 9.30am |
Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome, Overview of the day Explore Kalkari |
|
| 10.00am | Morning Tea | |
| 11.10am | Frog expert workshop | Habitat walk and water quality testing |
| 12.00pm | Lunch | |
| 12.30pm | Habitat walk and water quality testing | Frog expert workshop |
| 2.10pm | Wrap up | |
| 2.20pm | Conclusion and depart | |
Cost and details
| 2025 Cost |
$40 per student - GST free This will be processed through the student's school NOTE: National Parks entry is included in the cost |
| Transport |
Schools are required to organise transport for students to and from the location. Drop-off is available in the Kalkari Discovery Centre carpark. |
| Class numbers and size |
Max. 6 students from each school Please contact the centre for more information |
| Risk assessments | A complete risk assessment will be sent to the school upon confirmation. |
| What to bring |
Backpack, medication, low-waste food, water bottle, sunblock, raincoat, hat, sturdy shoes, mask. Students may wear sports uniform. |
| Adverse weather | On days where the weather is unsuitable (see risk assessment), a Gibberagong staff member will contact the organising teacher to discuss alternative arrangements. |
| Medical notifications | Notify Gibberagong EEC by completing and returning the medical form before the day. This form will be sent out upon confirmation of booking. |
| How to book |
Teachers are to complete the booking form for participating students. |
