Fieldwork & Planning Guide
A complete Stage 2 HSIE Geography framework for exploring Auburn Botanic Gardens. Prepare your primary students in the classroom, facilitate purposeful virtual investigations, or structure an immersive on-site fieldwork excursion.
Fieldwork learning sequence
Follow our structured three-phase teaching model to guide Stage 2 students through inquiry-based geographical learning before, during, and after exploring the gardens.
(Japanese Garden, Auburn Botanic Gardens. Photograph by author, 2026.)
1. Prepare
Activate prior knowledge using site maps, aerial imagery, and pre-visit inquiry prompts. Students establish inquiry questions and explore local geography concepts prior to investigation.
(Japanese Garden, Auburn Botanic Gardens. Photograph by author, 2026.)
2. Explore
Engage with the environment either virtually or on-site. Students record sensory observations, take photographs, track plant species, and map key features across different garden zones.
(Japanese Garden, Auburn Botanic Gardens. Photograph by author, 2026.)
3. Investigate
Synthesise findings back in the classroom using data tables and graphic organisers to evaluate human interactions, environmental management, and sustainability at the site.
Supporting flexible inquiry in the classroom
Whether conducting an excursion to Cumberland City Council's Auburn Botanic Gardens in Western Sydney or delivering a remote virtual field trip, this guide ensures comprehensive syllabus coverage and deep student engagement.
(Japanese Garden, Auburn Botanic Gardens. Photograph by author, 2026.)
On-site excursion organisation
Teachers planning an on-site visit should also consider school excursion procedures, supervision requirements, transport, amenities, accessibility and wet-weather arrangements.
Virtual fieldwork integration
Bring the diverse environments of Auburn Botanic Gardens directly into your classroom. The interactive photographic virtual tour allows learners to observe the Japanese Garden, native fauna enclosure, and rainforest trails safely and affordably, unlocking rich geographical analysis for all schools across New South Wales.
(Japanese Garden, Auburn Botanic Gardens. Photograph by author, 2026.)
Risk Management Consideration
Teacher note: If this virtual site study is extended to an on-site excursion, teachers should complete their school's required excursion approval and risk-management procedures prior to the visit. Risk assessment should consider the specific student group, planned activities, transport, venue conditions, environmental hazards, medical requirements, supervision and emergency procedures.
Further planning: Teachers undertaking an on-site excursion should complete their school's required excursion risk-management procedures. Refer to the NSW Department of Education Risk Management Process and Proforma for guidance.