School excursion

Aboriginal culture

Stage 2 (Years 3-4), Geography, Hunter Wetlands National Park

An Aboriginal guide with a group of students on an Aboriginal culture school excursion in Hunter Wetlands National Park. Photo: Adam Hollingworth © DPIE

Overview

Experience Ash Island in Hunter Wetlands National Park through the eyes of an Aboriginal person on this Stage 2 (Years 3-4) Aboriginal culture Geography excursion.

Read more about Aboriginal culture

Hunter Wetlands National Park is an internationally significant (Ramsar-listed) wetland consisting of Kooragang and Shortland wetlands and a wildlife corridor connecting Ironbark Creek, the Hunter River and Ash Island. On this school excursion, students will go on a bushwalk, hear Dreamtime stories and take part in Aboriginal cultural activities. Through engaging with Aboriginal culture, students will learn why this place is important.

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

Stage	Stage 2 (Years 3-4)
Learning area	Geography
Student outcomes	GE2-1. Examines features and characteristics of places and environments GE2-2. Describes the ways people, places and environments interact GE2-3. Examines differing perceptions about the management of places and environments GE2-4. Acquires and communicates geographical information using geographical tools for inquiry
Objectives	Students will: Recognise that Aboriginal people are the first Australians Investigate the connections that the Aboriginal People have to the land, sea and animals of this place Hear stories to understand why this place is important to Aboriginal People and how it can be cared for Find out how Aboriginal People describe the weather and the seasons Locate the places they know to create a sense of place Engage with Aboriginal culture through fun learning activities.

Excursion details

When: Weekdays all year.
Where: Hunter Wetlands National Park in North Coast
Duration: 4hrs
Grading: Medium. Guided activities in a suburban national park, on formed and uneven bushwalking tracks, and on a grassed picnic area.
Price: $380 per group (includes GST). Maximum 30 students per group. For groups over 30 conditions apply.
Accessibility: Medium
Meeting point: Ash Island Schoolhouse carpark, Ash Island.
Equipment provided: No. All equipment is provided.
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-2-geography-aboriginal-culture-hunter-wetlands-national-park/local-alerts

Operated by

School excursion inquiries - Newcastle Hunter
02 4927 3267
discovery.newcastlehunter@environment.nsw.gov.au
Hunter Wetland Centre, Sandgate Road, Shortland NSW

Park info

in Hunter Wetlands National Park in the North Coast region
Hunter Wetlands National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

See more visitor info

Info for teachers

All the practical information you need to know about Aboriginal culture.

Program outline

Welcome, introductions, safety briefing and acknowledgement of Country.
Bushwalk – environment and culture
Morning tea
Aboriginal cultural activities. Cultural activities can include weapons and tools, bush foods or art.
Local Dreamtime stories
Conclusion and farewell

Getting there and parking

Travelling toward Newcastle on the Pacific Highway turn left and cross the Ash Island bridge. Take the first right turn and the school house is the next turn on the right.

What to bring

Please wear fully enclosed shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen, wet weather gear, and lunch which should be low waste with a refillable water bottle. Students should bring gear in a backpack or similar (not plastic bags).

Maps and downloads

Aboriginal culture 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 - medium

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