Program overview

Stage 4 students use a range of geographical tools in this excursion to investigate the natural processes and human activities that affect the health of the Hawkesbury-Nepean River and the strategies currently being used to manage this vital water Country.

Syllabus outcomes and content

Geography 7–10 Syllabus (2024)

Water in the world

Outcomes

  • GE4-MAN-01 explains the management and protection of places and environments
  • GE5-TAP-01 selects and uses geographical tools to acquire and process geographical information

Content

Thinking and working geographically

  • Use relevant geographical concepts
  • Engage in geographical inquiry using geographical information
  • Use relevant geographical tools

Water resources and their value

  • Hydrological processes that move water through a catchment area
  • Factors influencing water flows and the availability of water resources in different places
  • The economic, cultural, spiritual and aesthetic value of water

Water scarcity and water management

  • Strategies to manage catchment areas for sustainability
Program activities
1

Assessing water quality - the Hawkesbury River

Students examine water quality utilising a range of physical and chemical testing equipment. They interpret their results and draw links between water quality results and land use within the catchment.

2

Assessing water quality – biological indicators of health

Students catch and identify water bugs in the Brewongle ponds then draw conclusions about water quality based on fieldwork evidence.

3

Managing catchment areas for sustainability

Students use fieldwork equipment to conduct soil and vegetation tests to gain an understanding of the impact of vegetation and slope on water quality. They investigate current management strategies being used to manage stormwater in the catchment.

Activity social story coming soon!
Recommended timetable

Sample of a 1 group program

For multiple groups/classes, the same activities are run on an alternating schedule

9:45

Welcome to Brewongle

Safety briefing

10:00 Assessing water quality - the Hawkesbury River
11:00 RECESS
11:20 Assessing water quality – biological indicators of health
12:20 LUNCH
12:45 Managing catchment areas for sustainability
1:45 Reflection of activities / Wrap up / Toilets
2:00 Farewell
Worksheet and pre-excursion activities

Pre- and post-excursion lessons are available in the student worksheet

2025 - Water in the world worksheet

2026 - Water in the world worksheet

Teacher information
Location Brewongle Environmental Education Centre, Sackville North
Transport

Buses are booked by the visiting school.

A map to the bus parking will be sent with the schools confirmation email. Please ensure you print the map and give to the bus driver the morning of the excursion.

Program costs Program costs
Student numbers

Maximum student numbers are 30 students per class - up to 6 classes per day

No minimum student numbers (instead possible minimum costs)

Supporting teachers and staff Minimum requirement is one teacher per attending class
Program start and finish times

Brewongle arrival time is 9:45 am - departure time is 2 pm

* discuss prior to your visit if you require alternate times

Medical and welfare notifications

Using the Brewongle medical and welfare form (sent with the confirmation email), inform Brewongle staff of any medical conditions or special requirements prior to the visit

This program can be adapted for teachers and students with specific mobility requirements

Adverse weather

Visit our visitor information page to view our weather trigger points for program changes

On days where the weather is unsuitable, a Brewongle staff member will contact the organising teacher to discuss alternative arrangements

Booking and cancellation policy requirements

Brewongle booking and cancellation policy

Student attendance numbers confirmed 7 days prior to visit

Cancellation fees may apply

Inclusive learning support Visit our inclusive education website for further excursion support materials

Booking enquiries

Get in touch to ask a question, plan a visit or find out more about what we offer

Inclusive learning support

Brewongle EEC provides inclusive learning support through accessible, hands-on, and differentiated programs that cater to diverse learning needs, ensuring all learners can engage meaningfully with curriculum-based experiences in nature.