School excursion

Journey to an ancient world

Stage 4 (Years 7-8), Geography, New England National Park

People on the New England Wilderness Walk, New England National Park. Photo: Barbara Webster

Overview

Journey to an ancient world is a school excursion for Geography in New England National Park for Stage 4 (Years 7-8) students. Journey back in time to the ancient rainforests of the Gondwana super-continent.

Read more about Journey to an ancient world

The journey provides a window into the ancient past when rainforests covered the land we now call Australia. Students gain an understanding of the evolution of rainforest over geological time and the geographical processes that form and transform environments.

Students will be guided through a diverse and unique high altitude environment of snow gums and cool temperate rainforests, with spectacular vantage points giving perspective to the processes that continue to shape this environment.

Students will acquire and communicate geographical information using geographical tools for inquiry through map reading and interpretation, the use of fieldwork instruments for weather information and field observations.

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

Stage	Stage 4 (Years 7-8)
Learning area	Geography
Student outcomes	GE4-1. Locates and describes the diverse features and characteristics of a range of places and environments GE4-2. Describes processes and influences that form and transform places and environments GE4-7. Acquires and processes geographical information by selecting and using geographical tools for inquiry
Objectives	Students will: Describe processes and influences that form and transform The Great Escarpment and Ebor Volcano Understand how the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia represent remnants of once widespread rainforest and the significance as World Heritage protected area Know how global climatic changes have a profound effect on Australia's vegetation and bio-diversity Acquire and communicate geographical information using geographical tools for inquiry through map reading and interpretation, the use of fieldwork instruments for weather information and field observations.

Excursion details

When: By arrangement.
Availability: Guided. Available on request.
Where: New England National Park in North Coast, Country NSW
Duration: 4hrs
Grading: Medium
Price: $520 per group (price includes GST). Maximum 30 students per group. For groups over 30 conditions apply.
Accessibility: Easy
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-4-geography-journey-to-ancient-world-new-england-national-park/local-alerts

Operated by

School excursion inquiries - North Coast
02 6657 5935
npws.northcoasteducation@environment.nsw.gov.au

Park info

in New England National Park in the North Coast and Country NSW regions
New England 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 Journey to an ancient world.

Getting there and parking

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

Journey to an ancient world 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 - easy

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