Gibberagong Environmental Education Centre

Wonder, Engage, Inspire

Telephone02 9457 8245

Emailgibberagon-e.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Bush Safari

Science: Living World

Overview

The day centres around an exploration of the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park during a walk through the bush. During the bush walk, the students will engage in a variety of engaging, hands-on learning activities to observe, describe and recreate the features of living things.


Inquiry questions

What plants and animals live in the local bushland?

What are the features of these plants and animals?

What do they need to survive in their environment?

What can we do to help local living things to survive?


Excursion locations

This program is offered at the following locations. Click on an image to find out more.

Bushwalk

Students will investigate the features of the plants and animals in the local bushland through a variety of hands-on and sensory learning experiences which includes using plant ID charts and magnifiers. Students will learn about Aboriginal Peoples use of plants and animals to understand the importance of country for Aboriginal Peoples. Students will listen to a story and participate in a magic spot activity to facilitate a sense of wonder of the natural world, helping students to feel.

Invertebrate Survey

Students will work in groups to conduct an invertebrate survey in a bush habitat. Together the class will negotiate a code for caring for ethical and safe handling methods. They will also collect a tally of the total number of that species found in their area. Students will use ID charts and keys to correctly identify the invertebrate species.

Create a Bug

Students will use some of the natural materials around them to recreate their invertebrate. Through this process, the students will be able to describe some of the external features of invertebrates.

NOTE: Variations to timetable based on specific location, group size and weather

Time Classes A, B Classes C, D
10.00am Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome, Overview of the day
10.10am Morning Tea
10.30am Invertebrate Survey Bush walk
11.30am

Bush walk

Invertebrate Survey
1.00pm Lunch
1.30pm Create a Bug
2.00pm Conclusion and depart

Download the program flyer

Excursion locations

Bobbin Head

West Head

Kalkari Discovery Centre

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

Class numbers and size

Up to 4 classes 

Max. 30 students per class

Risk Assessments

View the sample risk assessment

A complete risk assessment will be sent upon confirmation.

Social Stories

Bobbin Head

West Head

Kalkari Discovery Centre

Supporting Resources
Student activities
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 arrangments.
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.

Science and technology K-6 Syllabus 

Outcomes

A student:

> observes, questions and collects data to communicate and compare ideas ST1-1WS-S

> describes observable features of living things and their environments ST1-4LW-S

> identifies how plants and animals are used for food and fibre products ST1-5LW-T

Content

Working Scientifically

Students:

  • explore and answer questions through participation in guided scientific investigations
  • compare observations with those of others
  • make safe choices when using materials and equipment

External features of living things

Students:

  • describe the external features of a variety of living things (ACSSU017)
  • Identify and group plants and animals using their external features

Living things live in different places

Students:

  • identify that living things live in different places that suit their needs (ACSSU211)

Plants and animals used for food and fibre

Students:

  • explore the plants and animals used in customary practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples 

 

Science and Technology K-6 Syllabus © NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) for and on behalf of the Crown in right of the State of New South Wales, 2017