School excursion

Places are similar and different

Royal National Park

Overview

Explore the features of different places and environments on this Stage 2 (Years 3-4) geography excursion with Ranger Jamie Tours. Observe the variations between bushland, sand and sea in the pristine coastal surrounds of Royal National Park.

Read more about Places are similar and different

With the Ranger Jamie team, you'll walk through this stunning coastal landscape, observing sandstone escarpments, sandy beaches, coastal heath and forest. Go dip net fishing in a freshwater creek, catch bugs, bushwalk to Wattamolla headland and build beach habitats for turtles and penguins.

As you explore, the Ranger Jamie team will help you investigate the ways people, places and environments interact. You’ll have the opportunity to consider how the protection of places is influenced by people’s perceptions of those places. You’ll also learn about different climates, settlement patterns and the demographic characteristics of the people who live here.

Ranger Jamie Tours is a licensed commercial tour operator with a Parks Eco Pass.

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

Stage	Stage 2 (Years 3-4)
Learning area	Geography
Student outcomes	GE2-1. Examines features and characteristics of places and environments GE2-2. Describes the ways people, places and environments interact GE2-3. Examines differing perceptions about the management of places and environments GE2-4. Acquires and communicates geographical information using geographical tools for inquiry
Objectives	Students will: Learn how and why are places similar and different Learn what would it be like to live in a neighbouring country Investigate Australia’s major natural and human features Investigate the climates and weather of different places Investigate the settlement patterns and demographic characteristics of places and the lives of the people who live there Investigate how the protection of places is influenced by people’s perception of places

Excursion details

When: Monday to Friday all year round.
Availability: Guided. Available on request. The Ranger Jamie team is also available to come to your school. Please contact Ranger Jamie Tours for more information.
Where: Royal National Park in Sydney and surrounds, South Coast
Duration: 4hrs
Grading: Easy. Activities and a guided tour will take place on sealed walking tracks. Students will walk up and down stairs, and along a beach.
Price: Contact Ranger Jamie Tours for pricing.
Accessibility: Medium
Meeting point: Wattamolla carpark level 1 in Royal National Park
Equipment provided: Yes
Booking: If you would like to organise a school excursion or incursion please use the 'Enquire now ' link or email or call Ranger Jamie Tours on 0432 851 574.

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-2-geography-places-similar-different-royal-national-park/local-alerts

Operated by

Park info

in Royal National Park in the Sydney and surrounds and South Coast regions
Royal National Park is open 7am to 8.30pm but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
Park entry fees:
$12 per vehicle per day. Payment options include Audley Visitor Centre, vehicle entry stations, pay machines and the Park’nPay app.
Vehicles over 8 seats: $4.40 per adult, $2.20 per child (per day). Students on educational programs: $1.10 per student. Teachers/educational supervisors: free (1 adult per 10 students).
Buy annual pass (//pass.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/).

See more info for teachers

Info for teachers

All the practical information you need to know about Places are similar and different.

Program outline

Interactive introductory presentation about native animals up-close, examining museum-grade taxidermy specimens.
Dip net fishing in a freshwater creek
Minibeast bug catching and camouflage face-painting
Bushwalk to Wattamolla headland
Habitat making sand sculptures on the beach

Getting there and parking

Enter Royal National Park via the Loftus, Waterfall or Otford entrances and drive until you reach Wattamolla Road.
Continue all the way down Wattamolla Road until you reach the carpark turning circle/island.

Parking

There is parking at Wattamolla carpark.

What to bring

Please wear closed comfortable shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen. Be ready for all weather conditions with a jumper and raincoat. And remember to bring food and water as well as any necessary medications. It’s a good idea to pack your belongings in a backpack rather than a plastic bag because we have some curious birds who may try to break in and share your lunch with you.

Maps and downloads

Places are similar and different factsheet

Safety messages

Pre activity briefing: participants will be briefed at the start of the activity/day.

Safety equipment: Ranger Jamie staff carry radios and first aid kits and are aware of emergency procedures.

Staff accreditation: Ranger Jamie staff 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. All staff have been screened for child-related employment and have completed a Working with Children Check.

Emergencies: Ranger Jamie 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

The team at Ranger Jamie Tours 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.

Upon booking you will be emailed a complete risk assessment that has been filled out for you.

Accessibility

Disability access level - medium

Pathways are wide and relatively flat, however there are some stairs and some of the activities take place on a beach. Assistance may be required for those with mobility restrictions.

Medium access presents some minor difficulties, such as a grassy surface. You may require a little assistance to get around in some areas.