Year 10 to 12 History in the making
Day program for secondary HPGE History, History Extension and S6 Aboriginal Studies students
Special Guest Lecturer Emeritus Professor Grace Karskens
2026 dates released
Term 3 - Wednesday 9th September - 30 places available
Program
This one day program is specifically designed for History, History Extension and Aboriginal Studies students in years 10 to 12 wanting to delve deeper into the subject for their HSC.
Spend an incredible day with the esteemed Emeritus Professor Grace Karskens and dedicated Aboriginal Education Teacher, Lea Harlow, at scenic Gibberagong EEC.
Professor Karskens is the author of:
- The Colony: A history of early Sydney - 2009
- People of the River - 2020
Dive into the fascinating world of history as you learn about its narratives, the art of writing history, the significance of oral traditions, the impact of historical interpretation, and how history can be shaped over time.
This program is designed not just to challenge student understanding but to ignite individual enthusiasm for historical exploration!
Each student will have the unique opportunity to engage with guest lecturer Professor Grace Karskens and discover the profound connections to Country alongside Lea Harlow.
Don’t miss out on this inspiring journey into the past!
Special notes
- One day workshop (9.00am-2.00pm)
- Maximum 6 students per school (DoE schools only)
*Note: if your school has more than 6 students interested please email Gibberagong EEC:
gibberagon-e.school@det.nsw.edu.au - Teachers are NOT required to attend the workshop
- Teachers or carers/parents are required to drop off and pick up students from the venue
- Capacity of 30 students for this program
For more information about Prof. Karskens and her research:
- Hornsby Council - Meet the Author - Youtube Clip
- ABC Listen - Conversations: How Dyarubbin became the crucible of a colony
Booking link
Key information
Learning activities
Guest Lecture by Prof. Grace Karskens
We’ll start the day with icebreaking activities followed by an open discussion on the fascinating world of history.
These engaging encounters will lay a solid foundation of knowledge for everything that lies ahead!
Bush walk
As we venture through the picturesque park, students will explore various viewpoints that will spark their curiosity and deepen their understanding of the area.
This bush walk is a perfect chance for students to reflect on what they truly value about this landscape. Plus, they’ll have the opportunity to capture their thoughts in journal notes while pondering profound historical concepts.
Cultural site exploration
Students will embark on an enriching visit to significant cultural and historical sites, including an Aboriginal engraving site.
Here, students will delve into the cultural significance of the land and its features as understood by the traditional custodians of the area.
Collaboration
Participating students may submit any questions they’re thinking about before they attend. Email: gibberagon-e.school@det.nsw.edu
(Students are to include their school name, first name and question/s)
Suggested timetable
| Time | Activity |
| 9.00am | Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome, Overview of the day |
| 9.15am | Introduce Prof. Grace Karskens and student academic lecture |
| 10.30am | Morning tea (from home) |
| 10.50am | Oral history bushwalk and immersion with Lea Harlow |
| 12.30pm | Lunch (from home) |
| 1.10pm | Collaboration with Prof. Karskens and Lea Harlow about history and how history has shaped our knowledge |
| 2.00pm | Conclusion and depart |
Syllabus outcomes
Cost and details
| Transport |
Schools are required to organise transport for students to and from the location. Drop-off is available in the Bobbin Head carpark.. Map for access to venue will be sent with the confirmation. |
| Cost |
$40 per student - GST free This will be processed through the student's school NOTE: National Parks entry is included in the cost |
| Risk assessment | A complete risk assessment will be sent upon confirmation. |
| What to bring |
Backpack, medication, low-waste food, water bottle, sunblock, raincoat, hat, sturdy shoes, mask. Students may wear sports uniform. |
| Teacher support | If you have a student who requires additional support at school. Please ensure your student is supported at this program. |
| 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 notification | Notify Gibberagong EEC by completing and returning the medical form before the excursion. This form will be sent out upon confirmation of booking. |
| How to book |
Teachers are to complete the booking form for participating students. |
