School excursion

Living world, wet and dry environments

NPWS guide dip-netting in shallow water, Merimbula. Photo: Barbara Allgaier © DPE

Overview

Living world, wet and dry environments explores the natural features of mangrove ecosystems. On this Stage 1, Science and Technology excursion at Merimbula Lake boardwalk students learn how organisms support each other in this unique environment.

This Stage 1 excursion in Merimbula on the far South Coast gives students a first-hand experience exploring mangrove ecosystems.

Students will investigate and examine how and why animals and plants live and support each other throughout their life cycle in this unique mangrove environment. Through observations, discussions and hands-on activities, they'll learn about the habitat of living things, and how they change and reproduce at certain times of the year.

Learning activities include:

Dip-netting to examine some of the organisms living in the wetlands
Using binoculars to observe waterbird species
Modelling sand habitats on the beach to develop an understanding of living things and their environment
Observing animals and plant features
Sensory experiences

The excursion has been designed to support the K-6 features of the Science and Technology Syllabus.

For program outline, safety and practical information about this excursion, see info for teachers

Stage	Stage 1 (Years 1-2)
Learning area	Science and Technology
Student outcomes	ST1-4LW-S. Describes observable features of living things and their environments ST1-2DP-T. Uses materials, tools and equipment to develop solutions for a need or opportunity ST1-1WS-S. Observes, questions and collects data to communicate and compare ideas and comparing what they and others know
Objectives	Students will: Learn about the different features of animals from wet and dry environments Observe insects and use dip-netting techniques to explore wet and dry environments View mangrove environments and discuss the birdlife they support Model sand habitats on the beach to develop an understanding of living things and their environment Observe animal and plant features Main a sensory connection to the environment

Excursion details

When: Monday to Friday during school term.
Availability: Guided. Available on request, subject to staff availability.
Where: Merimbula
Duration: 2hrs
Grading: Easy. Guided activities along a flat boardwalk, then down onto the sand exploring the high and low tide areas of Merimbula lake, and amongst the mangroves.
Price: $360 per group of 25 students (includes GST).
Accessibility: No wheelchair access
Meeting point: Meet at the start of Merimbula Lake boardwalk, at the carpark near the bridge.
Equipment provided: Yes
Booking: If you would like to organise a NPWS school excursion, please get in touch with local staff or use the 'Enquire' link for the online form.

Current alerts in this area

There are no current alerts in this area.

Local alerts

For the latest updates on fires, closures and other alerts in this area, see https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/education/stage-1-science-technology-living-world-wet-dry-merimbula/local-alerts

Operated by

School excursion inquiries - Far South Coast
02 6495 5000
npws.sapphirecoast@environment.nsw.gov.au

Info for teachers

All the practical information you need to know about Living world, wet and dry environments.

Program outline

Acknowledgement of Country, introduce activities, safety discussion
Boardwalk, woodland/mangrove interpretation
Low tide activity - dip-netting
Crab search
Habitat modelling/animal life cycles

Getting there and parking

Drive along Market Street from Merimbula to Pambula
Turn right into the carpark just before bridge

Parking

Parking is available on both sides of Merimbula Bridge.

Maps and downloads

Living world, wet and dry environments factsheet

Safety messages

Pre activity briefing: participants will be briefed at the start of the activity/day.

Safety equipment: NPWS staff carry radios and first aid kits, hold current first aid certificates and are aware of emergency procedures.

Staff accreditation: NPWS staff have current Senior First Aid accreditation. They are experienced in working with groups of students in the natural environment and have excellent knowledge of the specific areas they are visiting including potential hazards. NPWS is committed to a Child Safe and Friendly Environment. Our staff have been screened for child-related employment and have completed a Working with Children Check.

Emergencies: NPWS staff are trained to deal with emergencies and emergency procedures are in place. Ongoing supervision of a student following first aid treatment will be the responsibility of the visiting school.

Risk assessment and risk benefits

Our rangers and guides have the technical skill and experience to assess the risks and the benefits of a variety of activities delivered as part of our learning programs.

We believe in including opportunities that allow students to learn and experience for themselves through exploration in the natural environment.

Please make your own risk assessment based on the information provided. Detailed potential risks and controls are provided for the site to assist teachers in risk management planning. Teachers and carers should be aware of, and consider the needs, abilities and medical conditions of students when visiting this site. The supervision of students remains the responsibility of the teacher. The school must ensure an adequate number of adult supervisors are present.

Accessibility

Disability access level - no wheelchair access

Although most of this excursion is not wheelchair-accessible, the section along Merimbula Lake boardwalk is wheelchair-accessible.

If there is a wheelchair user in your group, call 02 6495 5000 to find out how the excursion may be adapted for your group.