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School excursion

Special Offer

Bound for Botany Bay

Stage 2 (Years 3-4), History, La Perouse area

Overview

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In 1770, James Cook and his crew aboard the Endeavour were bound for Botany Bay. Their 8-day stay would have a dramatic impact on the future of Australia. This Stage 2 (Years 3-4) history excursion explores the first British landing on Australian soil.

Read more about Bound for Botany Bay

Your guide will share European and Aboriginal stories from this period on location around the bay, and in some of the original European buildings. 

We'll discuss the fascinating life of British convict escapee William Buckley who inspired the saying 'Buckley's chance', meaning 'no chance'. Students will learn how Buckley befriended the Aboriginal Wathaurung People from whom he learned important survival skills. We'll discover why they came to think of him as a revered spirit within their tribe. 

This deep dive into the rich history of the area will have students looking at Botany Bay through a whole new lens. 

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

Stage Stage 2 (Years 3-4)
Key learning area History
Student outcomes

HT2-1. Identifies celebrations and commemorations of significance in Australia and the world

HT2-2. Describes and explains how significant individuals, groups and events contributed to changes in the local community over time

HT2-3. Describes people, events and actions related to world exploration and its effects

HT2-4. Describes and explains effects of British colonisation in Australia

HT2-5. Applies skills of historical inquiry and communication
Objectives

Students will:

  • Explore the point of first contact between Aboriginal people and white settlers 
  • Learn how Aboriginal people survived in their environment
  • Examine a collection of preserved Australian animals and Aboriginal artefacts
  • Learn about the European history of the site through stories and original architecture 
  • Identify some of the consequences of the British arrival for Aboriginal people

Excursion details

When

Weekdays all year.

Availability
Guided. Available on request.
Where
La Perouse area in Kamay Botany Bay National Park
Duration
3hrs 30min
Grading
Easy. Guided tour and activities along an unsealed walking path including a board walk, grassed area and stairs.
Price

$16 per student. Minimum of 20 students. GST included.

Accessibility
Hard
Meeting point
Meet at Bare Island gate. La Perouse is located at the northern headland of Kamay Botany Bay National Park. You can't access it from the southern end of the park at Kurnell.
Equipment
provided
Yes
Booking
To organise this school excursion please contact the local NPWS office or use the ‘Enquire now’ button. Find out if your school is eligible for the Unlocking Heritage travel subsidy.
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Operated by

Park info

  • in the La Perouse area of Kamay Botany Bay National Park in the Sydney and surrounds region

  • 7am–8.30pm November to March. 7am–7.30pm April to October

    Areas may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

  • There are no park entry fees in La Perouse area but you'll need to pay to tour Bare Island. Park entry fees apply in the Kurnell area of Kamay Botany Bay National Park, only.

    Buy annual pass
See more visitor info

Links

Henry Head track, Kamay Botany Bay National Park. Photo: John Spencer