School excursion

Aboriginal identity

Stage 3 (Years 5-6), HSIE, Tumut area in Kosciuszko National Park

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Overview

Aboriginal identity is a school excursion for Stage 3 (Years 5-6) students in Kosciuszko National Park which focuses on HSIE. Many images and icons associated with Australia come from the identity, culture and life of Aboriginal people - like the boomerang, didgeridoo, art, music and bush tucker.

Read more about Aboriginal identity

Students learn how local plants, animals and materials are used in traditional culture. Hands-on activities may include making rope from tree fibres, baskets from local grasses or reeds, or a stone tool.

Aboriginal people have been walking the earth for thousands of years and continue to have a strong connection to country. Traditional practices, dreaming stories and spiritual beliefs play an important part in modern day life. 

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

Stage Stage 3 (Years 5-6)
Learning area HSIE
Student outcomes

HT3-1. Describes and explains the significance of people, groups, places and events to the development of Australia

HT3-2. Describes and explains different experiences of people living in Australia over time

GE3-2. Explains interactions and connections between people, places and environments
Objectives

Students will:

  • Explore gender-appropriate artefacts and displays
  • Use natural resources to create their own artefacts
  • Taste seasonally available local bush foods and learn how they were collected
  • Compare the shelters traditionally used in summer and winter
  • Understand that these practices, customs and traditions illustrate Indigenous life and identity.

Excursion details

When
Weekdays all year.
Availability
Guided. Available on request. Subject to staff availability.

Aboriginal rangers from Kosciuszko National Park are also available to come to your school. Please phone (02) 9995 5142 for further details on in-school visits.

Where
Tumut area in Kosciuszko National Park in Snowy Mountains
Duration
3-5 hr
Grading
Easy. Discovery ranger guided walk and activities on bush tracks and in the amphitheatre.
Price

$275 per group for a half day (3 hours), $375 per group for a full day (5 hours). Prices include GST. Maximum 25 students per group. For groups over 25 conditions apply.

Accessibility
Medium
Meeting point
Birrimal Waga Amphitheatre, Sydney Street, Tumut.
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.
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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-3-hsie-aboriginal-identity-tumut-kosciuszko-national-park/local-alerts

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Park info

See more visitor info

Info for teachers

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

Program outline

Activities: axe grinding, basket weaving, rope making, boomerang and spear throwing, firestick, boomerang painting.

Demonstrations: bush tucker and glue, net making, dilly bags, traditional shelters, artefacts display.

Activities and displays for your program may be varied seasonally or to suit desired learning outcomes.

  • Half day (3 hrs)
  • Introduction 
  • Activity 1 – group activity 
  • Activity 2 – gender appropriate activity
  • Recess 
  • Hands on Artefacts display
  • Conclusion 
     
  • Full day (5 hrs)
  • Introduction 
  • Activity 1 – group activity 
  • Recess 
  • Hands on Activity 
  • Lunch 
  • Activity 2 – gender appropriate activity 
  • Activity 3 - group activity 
  • Hands on Artefacts Display 
  • Conclusion 

 

Getting there and parking

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    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

    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