Centennial Park is one of Sydney's most important and historic sites. Children will learn about the history of 'The People's Park' from pre-colonial times to present-day.
Stage 2 History
Learn about Australia’s natural and human history by journeying through time and place in Centennial Park. Discover the pre-colonial importance of Centennial Park's landscape to the local Indigenous people, the Gadigal and Bidjigal Peoples. Find out about the importance of fresh water to the survival of colonial Sydney and visit the site of the signing of the Federation document in 1901.
In the People’s Park, students will hear stories, create drama and participate in activities centred around the local Indigenous Peoples, the construction of Busbys Bore and the vision of Sir Henry Parkes. This program includes a trip to the Federation Pavilion.
The People's Park activities:
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Journey through Lachlan Swamp and investigate how it was used and cared for by the Aboriginal People
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Learn about how pre-colonial Aboriginal shelters and housing was used within the Park landscape
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Enjoy nature games that examine the daily life of free settlers and convicts in the early colony and the digging of Busbys Bore
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Re-enact Federation Day on the site of the original event
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Investigate the role that Sir Henry Parkes and James Busby played in shaping the Parklands and the City of Sydney.
Curriculum outcomes and syllabus indicators:
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CCS2.1 Describes events and actions related to the British colonisation of Australia and assesses changes and consequences
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ENS2.5 Describes places in the local area and other parts of Australia and explains their significance.