Back to previous page
Print factsheet

School excursion

Grand Canyon: Environmental change and management

Stage 5 (Years 9-10), Geography, Blackheath area in Blue Mountains National Park

Open, check current alerts 

Info for teachers

Everything you need to know about Grand Canyon: Environmental change and management.

Program outline

  • Welcome, acknowledgement of Country and safety briefing 
  • Walk the iconic Grand Canyon track  
  • Collect and record geographical data from the ecosystem using a variety of techniques
  • Identify a range of geographical issues relating to the environment, including land and water management, biodiversity and tourism.
  • Explain the interaction of the physical and human elements of the environment
  • Break for self-packed lunch along the way 
  • Understand why and how environmental park issues are managed 
  • Recognise the government's responsibility to manage the national park

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

Get driving directions

Get directions

    This excursion begins at Neates Glen carpark, 3km down Evans Lookout Road, Blackheath. It finishes at Evans lookout, a 1.3km drive from Neates Glen.

    Coaches are required to park in the Grand Canyon loop carpark. Students will need to walk a further 20 minutes to the loop carpark from Evans lookout to return to their bus after the excursion concludes.

    Parking

    Parking is available at Grand Canyon carpark.

    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

    There is a wheelchair accessible carpark, picnic area, interpretive signage and public toilets at Evans lookout. Please let us know in advance if you are bringing someone with special needs so that we can plan accordingly.

    Grand Canyon: Environmental change and management Enquire now

    Park info