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School excursion

Explore a national park

Katoomba area in Blue Mountains National Park

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Info for teachers

Everything you need to know about Explore a national park.

Program outline

  • Welcome, acknowledgement of Country and safety briefing 
  • 30-45 minute guided bushwalk to explore a variety of ecosystems and local wildlife, incorporating sensory activities along the way. 
  • Create a nature map using found, natural and local resources.
  • Discuss threats to the local environment and the role NPWS plays in mitigating these   
  • Farewell and depart on bus 

What to bring

Please wear long pants, closed comfortable shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen. Be ready for all weather conditions with a jumper and raincoat. Remember to bring extra food and water, and any necessary medications. Please bring your belongings in a backpack rather than a plastic bag.

Getting there and parking

The following information lists directions to the 3 Blue Mountains locations from Sydney:

Three Sisters walk

The Three Sisters and Echo Point are in the Katoomba area of Blue Mountains National Park. To get there:

  • Take Great Western Highway (M4 and A32) towards Katoomba
  • At Katoomba, turn left off the Great Western Highway at the traffic lights, then follow the signs to Three Sisters and Echo Point. 

Wentworth Falls track 

Wentworth Falls track starts from Wentworth Falls picnic area in Blue Mountains National Park. To get there:

  • Take Great Western Highway to Wentworth Falls
  • Turn onto Falls Road at the traffic lights and follow the sign to the national park
  • Continue to the end of Falls Road to reach Wentworth Falls picnic area.

Fairfax Heritage walking track 

Fairfax Heritage walking track can be accessed from the Blue Mountains Heritage Centre, located in the Blackheath area of Blue Mountains National Park.

  • Take the Great Western Highway to Blackheath. Turn right at the Blackheath traffic lights into Govetts Leap Road. 
  • Drive for 2.5km. After passing through the park entrance, take the second exit from the roundabout.

Parking

Three Sisters walk

  • Parking is available near Echo Point. Please note that time limits and parking fees apply. 
  • Designated coach parking is available next to Lilianfels Park, at the end of Echo Point Road, Katoomba.

Wentworth Falls track 

  • Parking is available at Wentworth Falls picnic area including designated disabled spots and coach parking. 
  • Overflow parking is available on Falls Road.

Fairfax Heritage walking track 

  • Parking is available at the Blue Mountains Heritage Centre, including several designated disabled spots. 
  • Bus and coach parking is available. 

Maps and downloads

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 - hard

The Wentworth Falls excursion is not wheelchair-accessible. The excursions at the Three Sisters and Blue Mountains Heritage Centre at Blackheath are wheelchair-accessible.

Please let us know in advance if you are bringing someone with special needs so that we can plan accordingly.

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