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Incursions

Natural Elements – Sensory Play

Natural Elements incursion is a multi-sensory, play-based learning experience that inspires creativity and joyful connections with nature. Students explore and create with natural materials and loose parts with a focus on developing STEM thinking dispositions and affordances in nature.

Our Natural Elements Incursion is ideal for groups of up to 50 learners per session. Multiple sessions can be scheduled throughout the day.

Duration:
90 minutes
Cost (per student):
$18.50 [+GST]
Target Audience:
Kindy to Year 2
Conditions:
Minimum spend of $400 and travel surcharges may apply.
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Testimonials

Nature play was so much fun. The educators brought so much enthusiasm and positive energy and the kids loved it! We switch up between activities and shook out our silly’s in between! This kept the kids very engaged the whole time! Would definitely recommend.

Natural Elements Sensory Play - Renmark Primary School

Our children were so engaged the entire time they were at the centre. We loved all of the resources they brought with them and the educators engaged so beautifully with the children.

Natural Elements Sensory Play - Emali Underdale

We had such an amazing morning. The students were so engaged and great to see lots of collaboration, negotiation, creativity and imagination being used in a simple, yet effective way. Will definitely be using this program again.

Natural Elements Sensory Play - Mitcham Primary School

A wonderful opportunity for children to engage at all levels in a way that is meaning to each individual- thank you !

Natural Elements Sensory Play - St Therese School

What a rewarding experience! The children shone as they worked collaboratively to create, build and explore natural elements. Thankyou for such a positive experience.

Natural Elements - Trinity College South

Very well organised and engaging program for our kindergarten children. It was a wonderful introduction to loose parts play and has inspired the educators for future planning/provocations. Thank you!

Natural Elements - Klemzig Kindergarten

Natural Elements Incursion FAQs

Is there a minimum charge?

As a not-for-profit organisation, our programs do have minimum spend amount to cover costs. The minimum charge will be applied at the time of invoice. If your school or site would like to run a program that doesn’t meet the minimum spend amount, please contact [email protected] to discuss options.

Natural Elements: Minimum $400 spend

Where do we meet you on the day?

Please meet your NPSA educator at the school’s office upon their arrival to sign in and set up. Your educator/s will arrive approximately 60 minutes before the first session to prepare.

If possible, allocate a space with vehicle access for easier unloading and packing up. Please ensure someone is onsite to unlock any necessary access points and inform us of this space’s location so that we can plan our resources accordingly.

What do we need to provide?

It would be ideal if you have access to a green space, school garden, or school oval (preferably with shade). The minimum space required for a Natural Elements Incursion is typically about half the size of a tennis court. We prioritise connection and positive interactions with both learners and educators. We encourage everyone to wear a name tag (even masking tape with names is acceptable) during the program.

Will you work within our timetabled blocks?

Yes. There are three scheduling options based on the structure of your school day: before recess, after recess, or after lunch.

Natural Elements sensory play sessions run for 90 minutes, and three sessions can be accommodated in one school day.

We cater to groups of up to 60 students per session. Whole school programs can be tailored to your needs; please contact our team at [email protected] to find out more.

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.

In the event of inclement weather, a Natural Elements Incursion can be conducted undercover in a school gym, COLA, or other suitable indoor space if feasible. In the case of extreme weather, we may need to reschedule the incursion, providing a minimum of 24 hours’ notice.

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 do we have to provide?

We prioritise connection and positive interactions with both learners and educators. We encourage everyone to wear a name tag (even masking tape with names is acceptable) during the program.

The Teacher-in-Charge is responsible for all pastoral care and first aid for students according to DfE guidelines. Please ensure you have all necessary documentation and resources in line with school-based policies and procedures.

The setting of the incursion significantly influences children’s engagement in nature play. If available, a green space, school garden, or school oval (ideally with nearby trees) would be optimal. The minimum space required is typically about the size of a tennis court.

Is there a travel charge for your incursion program?

Due to the wide-area we service, there is a small travel fee for incursions and programs delivered outside of the Adelaide Metro area (including regional and country SA.) As a not-for-profit organisation, we keep these costs to a minimum.

Fees are determined by your location and distance from our headquarters in Blackwood, SA, using Google Maps to calculate travel kilometres from our office in the Wittunga Botanic Gardens.

Travel fee Schedule

0 to 24km – no charge
26 to 50km – If your site is within this range, there is a one-off travel fee of $80 applied to your final invoice.
51 km and over – fee will be negotiated with the booking

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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