School excursion

Ecosystems at risk

Stage 6 (Years 11-12), Geography, Dorrigo National Park

Open, check current alerts 

Enquire now

Overview

Ecosystems at risk is a school excursion in Dorrigo National Park for Stage 6 (Years 11-12) students focusing on geography as a KLA and is designed to complement a case study of a particular ecosystem at risk.

Read more about Ecosystems at risk

Geography: Ecosystems at Risk

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

Stage Stage 6 (Years 11-12)
Learning area Geography
Objectives
  • Observe a highly diverse rainforest ecosystem, its geographical location and extent, altitude and the effects on it of biophysical interactions, human impacts and contemporary management practices.
  • Question a representative of the management authority about the global significance of the site, possible future impacts, and strategies for managing these.

Excursion details

Availability
Guided. Available on request.
Where
Dorrigo National Park in North Coast
Duration
4hrs
Grading
Easy
Price

$370 per group (includes GST). Maximum 30 students per group. For groups over 30 conditions apply.

Accessibility
Medium
Meeting point
Dorrigo Rainforest Centre
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.
Enquire now

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-6-geography-ecosystems-at-risk-dorrigo-national-park/local-alerts

Enquire now

Operated by

Park info

  • in Dorrigo National Park in the North Coast region

  • Dorrigo National Park is open daily (except Christmas Day) 9am to 4.30pm 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 Ecosystems at risk.

Program outline

  • Group meets at Dorrigo Rainforest Centre - welcome by Discovery Rangers.
  • Presentation by Discovery Ranger, summarising main natural and human impacts which put the ecosystem at risk, and management strategies and plans to combat threats.
  • Morning tea and toilet break
  • Guided walk from Rainforest Centre to Crystal Shower Falls and return to The
  • Glade Picnic Area (4.6km) for lunch.
  • Optional addition of role-play exercise. (3 hrs)

Getting there and parking

Get driving directions

Get directions

    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

    Sloping sections and steps on walking track. Not suitable for wheelchairs. Please let us know in advance if you are bringing someone with special needs so that we can plan accordingly.