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Incursions

Whittling – Risky Play

This creative and hands-on experience uses technology and techniques from long ago to forge modern masterpieces. Students will be amazed to find that the simplest of natural materials can reveal layers of surprise. Students explore historical links to design and technology while mastering new skills demanding self-control and persistence.

Our Whittling program is ideal for groups of up to 30 learners per session. Multiple sessions can be scheduled throughout the day.

Duration:
90 minutes
Cost (per student):
$20 [+GST]
Target Audience:
Year 1 to Year 6
Conditions:
Minimum spend of $400 and travel surcharge may apply.
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Testimonials

Our year 5/6 students absolutely loved the whittling incursion. They were focused and engaged during the session and so proud of the creations they got to take home. I highly recommend this program!

Whittling - Hallett Cove South Primary School

Feedback from parents:
"This was the best thing we've done these holidays."
"We will be buying whittling tools, thank you for organising this."

Whittling - Gawler Libraries

Whittling FAQ's

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.

Whittling: 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.

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 Whittling 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.

Whittling sessions run for 90 minutes, and three sessions can be accommodated in one school day.

We cater to groups of up to 30 students per session.

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 Whittling 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 FAQ's

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.

What are the adult to child ratios that we need to provide?

All programs are led by experienced NPSA educators; however, they do not count towards the required adult-to-child ratio for your excursion or incursion.

Your school/site-based policies and procedures will dictate the appropriate adult-to-child ratio for your program. We encourage the presence of adult helpers for excursions. According to DfE guidelines:

  • 1:6 for preschool to year 2
  • 1:10 for years 3 to 6
  • 1:15 for years 7 to 12

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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