Learning activities

Mindfulness and wellbeing in nature

Guided mindfulness practices: grounding, deep breathing, sound mapping, and silent sit spots.

Body scan reflection: noticing bodily tension and using mindful breathing to release stress.

Discussion prompts: how to apply these techniques during exams or social challenges.

Nature journalling and creative reflection

Students engage in nature journalling, observing sights, sounds, textures, and patterns.

Gratitude prompts:

• Three things in nature I am grateful for today
• A moment that helped me feel calmer or more focused
• Something in this place that supports my wellbeing

Art-based reflection: visual patterns inspired by natural forms (leaves, water, rocks)

Metaphor drawing: using natural elements (trees, rocks, animals) to explore resilience and personal strengths.

Outdoor learning and resilience

Bushwalking on varied terrain, promoting cardiovascular fitness, balance, and coordination.

Reflection on how movement impacts mood, stress, and energy.

Optional movement mapping activity: students draw lines or shapes in their journals representing how their body moved and felt on the walk.

Aboriginal connections to Country

Visit an Aboriginal rock engraving site and learn about bush foods and traditional practices.

Students create reflective art or journal entries linking connection to Country with wellbeing and cultural respect.

Reflection circle

Small-group sharing of insights from the day.

Students discuss strategies they could use to manage stress or maintain wellbeing in school or daily life.

Integration of nature connection, gratitude, and mindfulness strategies into personal wellbeing plans.

Suggested timetable

Time	Class A, B	Class C, D
10.00am	Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome, Overview of the day
10.10am	Morning Tea
10.30am	Mindfulness & Aboriginal connection to Country	Nature journalling & Outdoor learning
12.00pm	Nature journalling & Outdoor learning	Mindfulness & Aboriginal connection to Country
1.2.45pm	Lunch
1.15pm	Reflection circle	Reflection circle

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

Syllabus outcomes

PDHPE – NSW K–10 Syllabus (2024)

Outcomes - Stage 4

• PH4‑SHP‑01 plans for and uses strategies to participate in activities that encourage safety, health and lifelong physical activity
• PH4‑SMI‑01 refines and applies self‑management and interpersonal skills to manage complex situations
• PH4‑SHW‑01 assesses the influence of contextual factors on attitudes and behaviours to propose strategies that enhance safety, health and wellbeing
• PH4‑RRL‑01 explains and applies strategies for promoting safe and respectful relationships in a range of contexts
• PH4‑IBC‑01 investigates and explains factors that shape identity and sense of belonging

Outcomes - Stage 5

• PH5‑MSS‑01 Movement Skills & Concepts: Refines and transfers movement skills in dynamic movement environments
• PH5‑SMI‑01 Self‑Management & Interpersonal Skills: Evaluates and adapts self‑management and interpersonal skills to manage complex situations
• PH5‑SHW‑01 Health & Wellbeing Analysis: Analyses the interrelationship between contextual factors, attitudes and behaviours to promote safety, health and wellbeing
• PH5‑RRL‑01 Respectful Relationships & Contexts: Evaluates and applies strategies for promoting and maintaining safe, respectful relationships in a range of contexts.
• PH5‑IBC‑01 Identity, Belonging & Wellbeing: Analyses how identity and a sense of belonging contribute to the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities

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 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, mask. 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.