MEGALONG Education Excursion Information

	What do students do at Megalong Bush Farm ? Tours and activities are curriculum-aligned and are led by the venues team of guides.  Students are taken on a discovery experience tour, encouraged to dress up,  and depending on the focus of the group, complete all/some of the following:   dress up in era costume inspect heritage styled bush buildings model-making, view historical footage complete worksheets participate in a quiz and artifact treasure hunt   There is also a scheduled short break in between activities.

What audiences do the excursions cater for?

Any group interested in learning about Sydney’s convict and  bushranging past and investigating how the environment has been transformed over time. You  also have the opportunity for the children to discover a wide range of Australian educational and history activities that can complement the basic school curriculum across all years.

From a curriculum perspective,  MEGALONG school excursions are most compatible with

Primary HSIE Stages 2 and 3

Secondary HSIE Stage 5.

The story of  living in the bush and the  Blue Mountains illustrates several key Civics and Citizenship themes. Visual Arts and Design and Technology groups would also find much in the way of inspiration and applicable themes. COGS related Integrated Learning Packages are offered, with particular attention to the year 5-6 curriculum on Gold, Australiana, Environment and Aboriginal Culture.

How long is the excursion?

Progamme runs for  2 hours. Shorter sessions are available for schools with time restrictions. This programme can compliment other aspects of curriculum and excursions to the Blue Mountains

Which days/times are available?

Excursions are offered on weekdays and are subject to availability. Most excursions run from approximately 10.00 am to 2.00 pm, however timeframes are flexible. Late afternoon sessions can be arranged for schools travelling from remote areas.

How do students get to  Megalong Valley Bush Farm? Where do groups meet?

Return travel from the  city is arranged by the  participating bus company as part of your booking and can be included in the cost. Depending on group size,  buses depart from  the City at nominated collection points.  

For information on how to get to Megalong via bus or train please visit www.megalong.cc

Should we do any preparation before our excursion?

It is strongly recommended that teachers provide some preliminary background lessons prior to visiting  Megalong Bush Farm, to ensure students gain the most from their experience. Suggested activities are included in the teacher kit which will be sent to you once your booking is confirmed.

Students are divided into subgroups on the day. It is recommended that teachers plan the division of groups before the excursion as it saves a lot of time on the day. Please refer to your confirmation letter for the number of groups required.

How much does the excursion cost? 

The cost is $19 per student and includes all activities.

Camping fee per night is $10pp

Accompanying adults within the required ratios  attend free of charge for the programme but would be required to pay the $10 camping fee if staying overnight. 

Extra accompanying adults pay $19 per person and are encouraged to dress up with the students. For FOC ratio  please enquire.

What is the required student/teacher ratio?

The   Megalong Bush Farm Safety Policy sets the following requirement for accompanying adults. It is essential that accompanying adults play an active role in student supervision both during the excursion and on the vessel journey.

• Primary (Year 2 upwards) - 1 adult : 10 students

• Secondary – 1 adult : 20 students

• Special needs – 1 adult : 1 student

What is the minimum and maximum number of students?

The minimum number is 30 students. Groups with less than 30 students can be accommodated, however the minimum fee for 30 students will be charged. The maximum number is 120. Schools wishing to book larger groups can book two or more separate excursion dates. Alternatively, schools can attend in alternate half-day sessions incorporating a visit to another nearby venue.

Do excursions go ahead in wet weather?

Yes. Students must bring appropriate wet weather gear.

Are refreshments available?

Students and accompanying teachers/adults must bring their own refreshments. There  is a small bistro   at Megalong Bush Farm  and a small  kiosk with drinks. 

Has a risk assessment been done?

The Megalong Bush Farm  has completed a risk assessment for excursions     Please download the Risk Assessment form

What resources are available?

Teacher Kits containing maps, resources and worksheets are sent to schools after booking an excursion to allow teachers to undertake pre and post visit sessions to enhance the excursion and familiarise students with the site.

What do we bring? Is there storage for school bags?

Hat, sunscreen, refreshments, wet weather gear, pencils, cameras (optional). 

Are there toilets?

There are plenty of toilet facilities at Megalong Bush Farm.