About our centre
Our centre is part of the NSW Department of Education’s Environmental Education Centres network. We help students and teachers learn about the environment, sustainability and nature through hands-on learning.
We are located on a 5000 acre rural property, known as the Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute (EMAI), allowing us to specialise in farm-based, heritage and environmental field work opportunities for Kindergarten to Year 12 students.
The property is used as the Department of Industry and Investments main research institute and is managed as a typical NSW grazing property. Eight different ecosystems have been identified on the property and include a number of natural communities, such as a 40 hectare wildlife conservation zone and Nepean Riverine bushland.
Our environment
Our centre uses the local natural area to make learning active, enjoyable and linked to real life. Outdoor learning helps students feel more connected to nature.
Working with schools
We work with all NSW public and non-government schools. Schools can book our centre for our co-curricular learning programs and teacher professional development.
Learning programs
We run hands-on programs for students from Kindergarten to Year 12. Our programs link to what students are learning in class and can be changed to suit their needs.
Many of our programs also include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives. Students learn about culture, Country and how to care for the environment.
Our staff are trained teachers who are experts in environmental education. They guide students through real-world learning experiences that are active and engaging. Students get to explore, ask questions and think about the world around them. We also give schools activities to do before and after the visit to help keep the learning going.
Our programs include:
- day trips to our centre or nearby bushland and wetlands
- visits to schools
Teacher support
We also support teachers with:
- workshops for professional learning
- helpful teaching resources
- support with planning lessons and programs
- spaces for staff meetings and student workshops.
Ready to visit?
Email us or fill out our online booking enquiry form to get started.