About this project
A dedicated digital learning resource developed in Sydney, New South Wales, bringing the vibrant landscapes and rich geography of the Auburn Botanic Gardens directly into primary school classrooms across Australia.
Connecting classrooms to significant places
This virtual site study was designed to ensure every primary student has access to an authentic fieldwork investigation, regardless of geographic or logistical barriers. By exploring the unique habitats, public spaces, and flora of the Auburn Botanic Gardens online, teachers can lead engaging inquiries safely from the classroom or thoroughly prepare learners before setting foot on site.
Aligned with the NSW HSIE K-6 syllabus
At the heart of this project is Stage 2 Geography, targeting syllabus outcome HS2-GEO-01: "explains how people care for Australia’s environments and participate in Australian society, using geographical information" (NESA, 2024). Students interpret detailed site maps, analyse photographic evidence, explore how public botanical spaces serve diverse communities, and propose sustainable actions to protect local environments.
REFERENCE LIST
Cumberland City Council. (n.d.-a). Auburn Botanic Gardens. https://www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/auburn-botanic-gardens
Cumberland City Council. (n.d.-b). Auburn Botanic Gardens map: Showing the location of various areas [Map]. https://www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/inline-files/auburn-botanic-gardens-map-location-areas_0.pdf
NSW Education Standards Authority. (2024). Human Society and its Environment K–6 Syllabus (2024): Content. https://curriculum.nsw.edu.au/learning-areas/hsie/hsie-k-6-2024/content
NSW Education Standards Authority. (2024). Human Society and its Environment K–6 Syllabus (2024): Outcomes. https://curriculum.nsw.edu.au/learning-areas/hsie/hsie-k-6-2024/outcomes
"A virtual site study empowers educators to open doors to historically and geographically significant places, giving young learners a vital window into environmental care and the wider world."
NSW HSIE teaching and site study framework
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