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Excursions

Mini-Beasts and Water Bugs @Wittunga Gardens

This exciting bespoke excursion is hosted in the stunning grounds of the Wittunga Botanic Gardens. The Mini-Beasts theme is weaved though all activities, with particular focus on native caterpillars & butterflies; spiders; moths; and macro invertebrates (water bugs).

During this experience, learners explore the grounds of the Wittunga Gardens in search of the mini-beasts that call it home. They will discover unseen worlds by identifying macro invertebrates from the central lake, and use their artistic expression to create mini-beast inspired artworks to take home.

Note: This excursion can also be hosted in Glenthorne National Park – Ityamaiitpinna Yarta.

Duration:
90 minutes – 2 hours
Cost (per student):
$18.50 [+GST]
Target Audience:
Our Mini-Beast and Water Bug Excursion is perfect for years K-6. Groups of up to 100 (or five classes) can be accommodated in a bespoke experience.
Conditions:
Minimum spend of $400
Make Your Booking

Testimonials

The staff were all fantastic! They were super engaging and spoke very well to our year 2’s. They were organised, knowledgeable and fantastic to work with. I can’t thank your team enough for having us and the time and effort that goes into your programs. We loved it! We will definitely be back. Thanks!

Mini-Beasts and Water Bugs @Wittunga Gardens - Prescott College Southern

Nature Play SA provided highly engaging learning experiences for our Years 3-6 students. Their workshops were well structured, highly engaging and provided students with opportunities to be both curious and creative about their local landscapes. The staff had a high level of knowledge and were able to provoke inquiry in our students.

Mini-Beasts and Water Bugs - Old Noarlunga Primary School

An amazing experience for any age!

Mini-Beasts and Water Bugs @Wittunga Gardens - Whitefriars Catholic school

This set up at the Reservoir was engaging, extremely educational and Jason with his wealth of knowledge was incredible. All three staff interacted with the students, assisted in behaviour management when I was busy and we are already discussing another Nature Play adventure.So Thank you all for providing a sense of wonder, a love of the natural world and rich learning!

Mini-Beasts and Water Bugs @Wittunga Gardens - Myponga Primary School

Our students thoroughly enjoyed their time at Wittunga Gatdens today. The Nature Play SA staff were knowledgeable and engaging. We were particularly impressed with the effort which was put into adapting the program to make it inclusive for a student with additional needs.

Mini-Beasts and Water Bugs - King’s Baptist Grammar

Our students thoroughly enjoyed their time at Wittunga Gatdens today. The Nature Play SA staff were knowledgeable and engaging. We were particularly impressed with the effort which was put into adapting the program to make it inclusive for a student with additional needs.

Mini-Beasts @Wittunga Botanic Gardens - King’s Baptist Grammar AH

Mini-Beasts and Water Bugs FAQS

Where do we meet you on the day?

The safest bus drop-off for Wittunga Gardens is via the gate at the corner of Sherbourne Road (A12) and Fern Road. Please refer to the map below for additional information.

Handy hint – If using a GPS unit to navigate on the day, enter ‘Sherbourne Road’ as your destination.

Our staff will be on hand to greet your group (A12) and guide you to our ‘home base’ for the day located on the main lawns by the toilets and gondola (F4).

What do we need to provide?

The Teacher-in-Charge is responsible for all pastoral care and first aid for students (as per DfE guidelines), so please ensure you have all necessary documentation and resources in line with school-based policies and procedures. NPSA will have a first aid kit on site.

What should learners wear?

Please ensure students are dressed for a day of all-weather, outdoor play based on the expected weather conditions. Encourage learners to wear hats, sunscreen, SunSmart clothing, sturdy shoes in warmer months. In the event of predicted wet weather, we suggest students have a spare pair of socks/clothing at school to enable them to change out of wet clothing before going home.

What will learners be doing?

A Mini-Beasts theme is weaved though all activities, with particular focus on native caterpillars & butterflies; spiders; moths; and other invertebrates. Classes will rotate through 4 experiences which promote curiosity, mindfulness, connection and play. These activities may include a biodiversity walk, investigating water bugs (macro invertebrates), creating clay creatures and constructing bee hotels.Afterwards, you may wish to stay for lunch, explore the gardens or use the play space.

What happens if there is inclement weather?

We aim to work outdoors whenever possible, but there are times when rain, wind, or heat may affect the experience. If there is to be a cancellation due to severe weather or warnings, where possible, schools will be notified by 4:00pm the day before the event. In this instance, we will work with you to reschedule your program.

General FAQS

What ages do you work with?

Our education programs are designed for children in Kindergarten to Year 12. We can tailor programs to suit the learning and curriculum needs of your site/school and the students in your care. Our advertised age ranges are simply there to guide you.

Do you provide all of the materials?

Yes, NPSA will provide all materials for the program you have booked.

What happens if we have to cancel our session?

A $200 cancellation fee applies if you cancel your confirmed booking without rescheduling. If cancellation is due to hazardous weather, NPSA will strive to notify you by 4 pm the day before your scheduled program offering (no cancellation fee applies in this case). In the event of severe or hazardous weather conditions leading to cancellation, we will collaborate with you to reschedule programs for a mutually agreeable time.

When will you invoice and require payment?

An invoice will be promptly sent to you following your excursion for payment within 14 days. Attendance numbers will be recorded on the day to ensure accurate invoicing. Charges for in-term programs are based on the children present on the day, while OSHC and vacation care programs are charged based on predicted numbers at the time of booking.

Policies and procedures

Risk Assessments: Upon booking confirmation for all programs, a risk assessment is provided for your review. Please carefully review this document and ensure that all staff (and volunteers where applicable) are aware of their roles and responsibilities on the day.

Insurance: NPSA holds public liability insurance and possesses a certificate of currency, which can be provided upon request.

Staff Clearances: All NPSA staff possess current DHS Working with Children Checks, Catholic Education clearances, and/or Teacher Registration, along with up-to-date first aid and RRHAN-EC training. These clearances can be provided upon request, and staff also carry hard copies on program days.

Our Partners

Green Adelaide

Green Adelaide is a South Australian Government supported organisation that is working towards a vision of a cooler, greener, wilder and climate-resilient metropolitan South Australia. The Green Adelaide area spans from the hills to the sea, encompassing 17 metropolitan council areas and about 1.3 million South Australians. Nature Play SA is funded by Green Adelaide and contributes to Adelaide National Park City.

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Our Partners

Department for Education

The Department for Education aims to ensure South Australia’s public education system can unlock every child’s potential now and in the future. Educators and staff work in partnership with families and communities to empower all children and young people with the knowledge, skills, and capabilities they need to become fulfilled individuals, active, compassionate citizens, and lifelong learners.

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Our Partners

The Department for Environment and Water

The Department for Environment and Water aims to help South Australians conserve, sustain and prosper. Their work in managing, conserving, and sustaining our environment and cultural resources is vital for the wellbeing of all South Australians.

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