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School excursion

Environmental scientist

Thredbo-Perisher area in Kosciuszko National Park

Info for teachers

Everything you need to know about Environmental scientist.

Program outline

Welcome, acknowledgement of Country and safety briefing
Test 1 Habitat survey: Students record the living and non-living features of a natural site and a site changed for human use. They’ll learn how to demonstrate the repeatability of a good investigation.
Test 2 Canopy cover: After predicting their results, students measure the canopy cover of the forest. This helps them discuss how the structure of a forest can change the habitat and food available for animals.
Test 3 Bug hunt: Highlights ways to categorise living things and communicate results.
Test 4 Leaf damage investigation: Students help develop a test to answer a question about the forest.
Bush walk and Scientific Method reflection
Wrap up and depart

What to bring

Please wear long pants, 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 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.

Getting there and parking

Kosciuszko Education Centre is in the alpine area of Kosciuszko National Park, close to Perisher. To get there from Jindabyne:

Drive along Kosciuszko Road from Jindabyne towards Perisher Valley
The education centre is around 12km from Jindabyne

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.

Sealed roads

Vehicle access

2WD vehicles

Weather restrictions

Snow chains required after snow

Parking

Car, bus and off-street parking is available.

Maps and downloads

Environmental scientist 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 - medium

Assistance may be required to access this area.

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