About the project
The Auburn Botanic Gardens Virtual Site Study brings rich geographical fieldwork directly into primary classrooms. Designed specifically for Stage 2 educators and students across New South Wales, this digital resource transforms inquiry-based learning through accessible, immersive technology.
Connecting students with places and environments
Auburn Botanic Gardens in Western Sydney presents an extraordinary geographical setting where students investigate how people, places, and natural systems interact. Featuring distinct environments including the Japanese Garden, Australian Rainforest, Fauna Reserve, Native Garden, and wetland billabongs, the gardens offer a dynamic context for examining habitats, natural and human-altered features, and environmental management. This project bridges physical boundaries so every classroom can explore this significant space.
Curriculum-Aligned inquiry for Stage 2 Geography
Structured specifically around the NSW HSIE K–6 Syllabus for Years 3 and 4, this study engages learners in real-world geographical inquiry. Students analyse how humans modify landscapes, examine how environments sustain living things, and reflect on custodial care. Through digital observation sheets, interactive mapping exercises, and habitat surveys, students gain practical fieldwork capabilities without leaving their desks.
Flexible teaching tools for prep or remote fieldwork
Whether acting as an interactive pre-excursion briefing or serving as an independent remote fieldwork project, this site study provides complete flexibility. Teachers gain access to a curated 5-stop fieldwork trail, comprehensive data collection templates, and environmental care challenges that foster deep critical thinking and collaborative problem-solving.
"A virtual site study allows teachers to prepare students, access diverse places safely from the classroom, and catch a glimpse of the wider world through purposeful technology."
HSIE primary fieldwork curriculum framework