School excursion

Kosciuszko keepers and seekers

Thredbo-Perisher area in Kosciuszko National Park

Affected by closures, check current alerts 

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Overview

Kosciuszko Keepers and Seekers invites Stage 3 (Years 5-6) primary students to delve into the Thredbo River area, Kosciuszko National Park. It helps them understand the delicate balance between human activity and the park's unique plants and animals.

Read more about Kosciuszko keepers and seekers

This Stage 3 Geography excursion illustrates the natural features of Kosciuszko National Park. Students gain insights into the ecological importance of the park and the challenges it faces. This includes the conservation of endangered Alpine skinks, which are essential for maintaining the alpine ecosystem's balance.

The excursion equips students with practical skills, like using a compass. Lessons on safety and sustainability give students a sense of stewardship of the park's future. They'll engage with the montane forest using all their senses, giving them a personal connection with this special and unique landscape.

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

Stage Stage 3 (Years 5-6)
Learning area Geography
Student outcomes

GE3-1. Describes the diverse features and characteristics of places and environments

GE3-2. Explains interactions and connections between people, places and environments

GE3-4. Acquires, processes and communicates geographical information using geographical tools for inquiry
Objectives

Students will:

  • Explore the natural features and characteristics of Kosciuszko National Park
  • Consider human impacts on natural places and how they can be managed to protect unique environments
  • Observe the plants and animals living in the park, and the relationships between them
  • Prepare for safe and responsible behaviour in an alpine national park
  • Develop basic field data collection and recording techniques

Excursion details

When

Weekdays all year.

Availability
Guided. Available on request.
Where
Thredbo River picnic area, Thredbo-Perisher area
Duration
2hrs
Grading
Easy. Guided tour and activities on an undulating paved pathway along the Thredbo River.
Price

$12 per student, minimum fee of $300.

Accessibility
Medium
Meeting point
Thredbo River picnic area, off Kosciuszko Road.
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-3-geography-kosciuszko-keepers-seekers-kosciuszko-national-park/local-alerts

Enquire now

Operated by

Park info

  • in the Thredbo-Perisher area of Kosciuszko National Park in the Snowy Mountains region
  • The Thredbo-Perisher area is open all year, but some roads and trails may close due to weather conditions or park management issues. Kosciuszko Road is closed between Perisher and Charlotte Pass in winter (June to October long weekends).

  • Park entry fees apply on Alpine Way and Kosciuszko Road

    Winter (June to October long weekends): $29 per vehicle per day (24hrs from purchase); motorcycles $12; bus passengers $11.45 per adult, $3.60 per child per day. Find out more about the winter entry surcharge.

    Rest of Year: $17 per vehicle per day (24hrs); motorcycles $7; bus passengers $6.60 per adult, $2.20 per child per day.

    Passes: Day passes, multi-day passes and annual All Parks Pass available from NPWS visitor centres, local agents and operating vehicle entry stations. Single and Multi-Day passes are also available via the Park'nPay app. Short Breaks Pass: $68 for 5 days park entry at price of 4 days (not valid winter).

    Read our Annual Pass FAQs for information.

    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 Kosciuszko keepers and seekers.

Program outline

  • Welcome, acknowledgement of Country and safety briefing 
  • Guided walk through Kosciuszko National Park
  • Australia’s alpine skinks and how they live in the cold environment
  • Hands-on orientation activity and being prepared for Kosciuszko National Park conditions
  • Sensory walk to develop a deeper connection with nature
  • Finding out about the unique, rare and endangered plants and animals that live in the park
  • Farewell and depart

Getting there and parking

Thredbo River picnic area is in the Kosciuszko Road precinct of Kosciuszko National Park. To get there:

  • Drive along Kosciuszko Road from Jindabyne towards Charlotte Pass
  • About 8km from the centre of Jindabyne, you’ll cross Thredbo River and take a left turn into the picnic area. The picnic area is 9.8km from Snowy Region Visitor Centre.

Road quality

All 2WD vehicles need to carry snow chains in winter, between June and October long weekends, on:

  • Kosciuszko Road (to Perisher)
  • Guthega Road
  • Alpine Way between Thredbo and Tom Groggin

Snow chains are recommended for all vehicles driving in the park, including 4WD and AWD, in the event of extreme weather. Read our snow driving in Kosciuszko tips.

Roads can close in extreme weather, so it’s a good idea to check weather and road conditions before setting out.

  • Sealed roads

Vehicle access

  • 2WD vehicles

Weather restrictions

  • Snow chains required after snow

Parking

Bus and car parking available.

What to bring

Please wear long pants, closed comfortable shoes and bring a hat, beanie and sunscreen. Be ready for cold weather conditions with a jumper and raincoat. Remember to bring food and 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

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

Assistance may be required to access this area. There is a paved pathway.