Learning activities

Forest exploration

Students explore different forest environments within Ku‑ring‑gai Chase National Park or Muogamarra. They observe and record a range of plants and animals, noting features of the forest and connections to Aboriginal history and use of bush resources.

Bush walk and fieldwork

During a guided bush walk, students use fieldwork tools to gather and record observations in a fieldwork journal. Activities include sketching, mapping, scratch-art, and investigating invertebrates. Students also practise environmental care by staying on paths and taking all rubbish home.

Aboriginal connections

Students explore Aboriginal connections to the land by identifying bush resources, learning local plant uses, and understanding some aspects of cultural practices connected to the bush.

Mangrove and coastal ecosystems (Kalkari to Bobbin Head location only)

The walk concludes with an exploration of mangrove or coastal areas within the park. Students observe animals such as fish, crabs, and birds, learning why these ecosystems are important and how they can be protected during visits.

Suggested timetable

Time	Classes A, B, C, D
10.00am	Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome, Overview of the day
10.10am	Morning tea
10.30am	Bushwalk and activities
12.30pm	Lunch (classes in separate locations)
1.00pm	Bushwalk and activities continued
1.30pm	Bobbin Head mangroves (Kalkari to Bobbin Head location only)
2.00pm	Conclusion and depart

* Please call the centre if you have more than 4 classes.

Syllabus outcomes

Geography K-10 Syllabus (2017)

Outcomes

• GE2-1 examines features and characteristics of places and environments
• GE2-2 describes the ways people, places and environments interact
• GE2-3 examines differing perceptions about the management of places and environments
• GE2-4 acquires and communicates geographical information using geographical tools for inquiry

Content

Significance of environments

Students investigate the importance of natural vegetation and natural resources to the environment, animals and people, for example: (ACHGK021, ACHGK022, ACHGK024)

identification of types of natural vegetation e.g. forests, grasslands, deserts

• explanation of the importance of natural vegetation to animals and the functioning of the environment e.g. provision of habitats, production of oxygen
• discussion of the importance of natural vegetation and natural resources

Science and Technology K-6 Syllabus (2017)

Outcome

• ST2-4LW compares features and characteristics of living and non-living things

Content

Survival of living things

Students describe how living things depend on each other and the environment to survive, for example (ACSSU073)

Cost and details

Bus access map	Map for access to venue will be sent with the confirmation. Please ensure you print a copy and provide it to the bus driver on the morning of the excursion.
Cost	2026 DoE $20 per student - GST free 2026 Non-gov school cost $25 per student - GST free, minimum charge $750 per class NOTE:  National Parks entry is $1.10 per student in addition - GST free
Class numbers and size	Up to 4 classes Max. 30 students per class Please contact the centre if you have more than 4 classes.
Risk assessments	A complete risk assessment will be sent upon confirmation.
What to bring	Backpack, medication, low-waste food, water bottle, sunblock, raincoat, hat, sturdy shoes. Students 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. Please check your bus company’s cancellation policy.
Medical notifications	Notify Gibberagong EEC by completing and returning the medical form before the excursion. This form will be sent out upon confirmation of booking.