School excursion

The earth's environment at Lane Cove

Stage 2 (Years 3-4), Geography, Lane Cove National Park

Native banksia flower, Lane Cove National Park. Photo: Michael van Ewijk

Overview

Did you know that over 9 per cent of NSW is a national park? That's over 7 million hectares. This Stage 2 (Years 3-4) earth's environment geography excursion is delivered at Lane Cove National Park.

Read more about The earth's environment at Lane Cove

Students will learn about the critical role national parks play in preserving our unique native plants, animals and rich cultural heritage

They'll explore the significance of the environment at Lane Cove and examine the important interrelationships between humans and the environment.

The man-made fish ladder on the Lane Cove River is a purpose-built structure designed to support the survival of river bass. It's a great first-hand example of supportive interventions at work.

We'll discuss the features of freshwater vs saltwater environments, and how native species adapt to thrive in one, the other, or both.

We'll look at some of the key threats to native species and places including urbanisation and domestic pests. This invokes a strong sense of the role students – our future environmental leaders – can play in preserving these important places for the future.

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: Identify the native animals and plants that live in Lane Cove Explore and discuss the threats to plants and animals, including urbanisation and introduced species, that threaten their survival Investigate sustainable practices that protect and support the natural environment Witness the positive impact supportive environmental interventions have on native species survival rates

Excursion details

When: Weekdays during school term, 10am to 2pm, including meal breaks.
Availability: Guided. Available on request.
Where: Lane Cove National Park in Sydney and surrounds
Duration: 4hrs
Grading: Easy. Guided tour and activities along an unsealed walking path including a board walk, grassed area and stairs
Price: $17 per student. Minimum 20 students. GST included.
Accessibility: Easy
Meeting point: Entrance to Lane Cove National Park, off Lady Game Drive.
Equipment provided: Yes. All field equipment including basic first aid kits are provided.
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-2-geography-the-earths-environment-at-lane-cove-national-park/local-alerts

Operated by

School excursion inquiries - Sydney Harbour
02 9668 2006
02 9337 7012
sydney.discovery@environment.nsw.gov.au

Park info

in Lane Cove National Park in the Sydney and surrounds region
Lane Cove National Park is open 9am to 7pm during daylight savings (until 6pm at other times). The park may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
Park entry fees:
$8 per vehicle per day. Day passes are available from on-park pay machines that accept coins and credit cards, and you can also pay for your visit via the Park’nPay app.
Bus: $4.40 per adult, $2.20 per child (per day). Prior payment may be required, please phone the Lane Cove National Park Office for more information.
Group bookings:
Under the National Parks and Wildlife Regulation 2009, prior written approval is required for organised groups of 30 or more people planning to visit the park. Contact the park office prior to your visit.
Buy annual pass (//pass.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/).

See more visitor info

Info for teachers

All the practical information you need to know about The earth's environment at Lane Cove.

Program outline

Welcome, acknowledgement of Country and safety talk
Introduction to the site and overview of what the excursion will entail
Walk to the shore of the Lane Cove River, morning tea, toilet break
Identify the living environments of various animals and plants and how they survive within the riparian zone
Investigate the structural features of some Australian native plants
Conduct a field sketch of the park
Lunch
Explore the park environment and the potential impacts of urbanisation
Discuss sustainable practices and people-powered restoration of the Lane Cove River through bush regeneration projects, including the Friends of Lane Cove
Return to park entrance. Farewell and depart on bus.

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

The earth's environment at Lane Cove 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

Picnic area can accommodate a wheelchair and the toilet is wheelchair accessible.