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School excursion

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Crossing the Blue Mountains

Stage 2 (Years 3-4), History, Blue Mountains National Park

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Overview

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This Stage 2 (years 3-4) History excursion immerses students in the History of the Mount York area. We examine the remains of the early Cox’s Road, walk in the foot-steps of explorers and First Nations people and consider how significant individuals, groups and events contributed to changes over time.

Read more about Crossing the Blue Mountains

We describe and explain the effects of British colonisation in Australia and implications of Crossing the Mountains.

In this excursion students recall Australia’s colonial days of early European exploration and this momentous event which changed our history.

As well as exploring the physical sites, students will use their imaginations to consider the diverse experiences of explorers, convicts and Indigenous Australians. How did the mountain crossing impact these people and the broader development of Australia?

On a scenic walk through the pagodas of Mount York, we will see evidence of carriages and livestock passing over the mountain to establish farms in the west country below. Students will look at the lives of local Indigenous people both before, and after the mountain crossing, and consider the ethics of our country’s history.

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

Stage Stage 2 (Years 3-4)
Learning area History
Student outcomes

HT2-2. Describes and explains how significant individuals, groups and events contributed to changes in the local community over time

HT2-4. Describes and explains effects of British colonisation in Australia

HT2-5. Applies skills of historical inquiry and communication
Objectives
Students will:
  • Learn about the early exploration of the Blue Mountains - the myths, the risks and those who dared to enter the wilderness
  • Examine the culture and lifestyle of both Indigenous and colonial Australians prior to the crossing
  • Hear the story of the successful crossing itself, and consider it from different perspectives
  • Look at the impacts of the crossing on the colony, the development of Australia and the lives of local Indigenous people
  • Explore the historical evidence of the site of the early Cox’s road and Mount York area
  • Consider the role and experience of explorers in local and global history.

Excursion details

When

Monday to Friday during school term.

Where
Blue Mountains National Park in Sydney and surrounds, Country NSW
Duration
2-4 hr
Grading
Easy. Short 1km ranger-guided bush walk and activities, includes uneven surfaces in the bushland environment.
Price

Prices start from $395 incl GST per group (up to 20 students).

Accessibility
Medium
Meeting point
Mount York Lookout.
Equipment
provided
No. We can provide teachers a selection of student worksheet questions prior to excursion.
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
Enquire now

Operated by

Park info

  • in Blue Mountains National Park in the Sydney and surrounds and Country NSW regions

  • Blue Mountains National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger. Some parts of the park close overnight; details are provided for specific attractions.

  • Park entry fees:

    $8 per vehicle per day applies only at attractions in the Glenbrook area.

    Buy annual pass

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