Learning activities

Team challenges

Students will work in small groups to complete a series of challenges. Each of these activities is designed to assist students to understand and develop leadership qualities, teamwork and resilience and include the plank walk, cannonball run and magic carpets

On completion, students will reflect on each activity and the qualities they thought were important in providing an effective outcome.

Shelter building

Working as a small team, students must construct a shelter using a tarp, ropes, pegs and any natural resources around them. Students must work together to design and build their shelter, using the skills of the whole group.

Wellbeing walk to nature spot

Students will work in teams to navigate their way through the bush during a walk to the rainforest. On arrival at their destination, they will participate in a silent challenge encouraging positive connections with nature and developing skills in reflection, relaxation and resilience.

OR

Kayak/canoe challenge

Depending on the program location, the students will undertake a kayak/canoe activity on either the Cowan Creek (at Bobbin Head) or in the waters of The Basin (at Pittwater). During their activity, students will need to work in a coordinated way to solve problems, requiring effective teamwork, communication and critical thinking skills. There will be a discussion after each challenge to help develop students’ skills in reflection and critical thinking.

Suggested timetable

Time	Class A, B	Class C, D
9.30am	Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome, Overview of the day
9.40am	What is a good team member?
9.50am	Team building challenge	Shelter building challenge OR Kayak/canoe
11.00am	Morning Tea
11.20am	Wellbeing walk to nature spot	Team building challenge
12.30pm	Lunch
12.50pm	Shelter building challenge OR Kayak/canoe	Wellbeing walk to nature spot
2.00pm	Reflection
2.15pm	Conclusion and depart

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

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	2025 DoE $20 per student - GST free 2025 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 NOTE: $10 per student additional for canoe/kayak - GST free
Class numbers and size	Canoeing - max. 60 students No canoeing - max. 90 students 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.
Canoe information (only applicable to those who book a canoe experience with their excursion)	Please refer to the DoE policies for canoe activities to ensure your students meet the requirements before attending: Canoeing recreational