Little bird's day

Stage 1 - High potential and gifted education program

A student using binoculars
Investigating the behaviour of birds in their natural habitat
A student using a microscope
Examining the waterproof features of bird feathers
Weather instruments
Observing and recording weather conditions using scientific equipment
Students building a bird's nest
Building bird shelters and choosing locations of nests based on scientific weather observations
Resources used to teach Aboriginal seasons including a book, plants and animal footprints
Exploring how Dharug people use various local plants and animals as seasonal indicators

Program

This program focuses on the Intellectual Domain and is designed to develop student knowledge, skills and understanding in the natural world. After reading 'Little Bird's Day' (Sally Morgan & Johnny Warrkatja Malibirr), students participate in a range of hands-on, exploratory activities and experiments to investigate weather changes. Students explore Australia's First People's seasonal calendars.

Important information

Activities

Students will:

  • read Little Bird’s Day and observe local bird behaviour, using binoculars to act as ornithologists and record bird sightings
  • investigate feathers under microscopes to explore their structure, waterproof properties, and the adaptations that help birds survive in various weather conditions
  • conduct hands-on weather experiments using scientific instruments such as thermometers, lux meters, compasses, canopy density boards, and anemometers to measure temperature, sunlight, shelter, and wind
  • work collaboratively to design and build model bird nests, selecting suitable locations based on weather data and explaining reasoning using scientific evidence
  • learn about Dharug seasonal knowledge by interpreting natural clues—such as animal tracks, flowering plants, and animal scats.
2026 program dates

This program will be delivered three times throughout 2026:

  • Thursday 11 June 2026 (Term 2, Week 8)
  • Wednesday 9 September 2026 (Term 3, Week 8)
  • Tuesday 1 December 2026 (Term 4, Week 8)
Booking information

Contact us to make a booking.

This program is designed to cater for students from multiple schools. Please note that program capacity is capped at 24 students in total. Each school is able to nominate a maximum of 6 students per date.

Additional information
Vehicle access

Address: 59 Whitmore Road, Maraylya

Minibuses and visitors arriving by private car can enter the gates on Whitmore Road and drive part way down the drive to the signposted 'Visitor parking' area near the mud brick shed. It is a short 100m walk from the visitor parking area to the classroom and office area. We kindly ask that visitors do not drive beyond this point in order to ensure the safety of our students.
Student numbers

Students from multiple schools will attend and participate collaboratively.

The program can accommodate a total of 24 students, with each school able to nominate up to 6 students per date.
Visiting teachers Teachers are welcome to accompany students, however this is not mandatory. Parents are welcome.
Adverse weather On days where the weather is unsuitable, a Longneck Lagoon EEC staff member will contact the organising teacher to discuss alternative arrangements.
Medical notifications Notify Longneck Lagoon EEC by completing and returning the student welfare form at least one week before the excursion. This form will be sent out upon confirmation of booking.
Further information Welcome to Longneck Lagoon EEC