School incursions are a fantastic way to enhance learning, inspire curiosity, and create memorable experiences for students without the logistical challenges of organising an excursion. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right incursion for your school? Here’s a practical guide tailored to Australian schools to help you make a confident, informed choice.
Understand Your Learning Objectives
Before diving into options, start by clarifying why you’re booking an incursion.
- Curriculum Alignment: Check if the program supports your current teaching units or upcoming assessments. For example, a science show might reinforce your term’s STEM focus, while a cultural workshop could align with humanities or language studies.
- Skill Development: Consider whether the incursion aims to develop practical skills (e.g., teamwork, problem-solving) or deliver specific subject knowledge.
- Student Engagement: Identify what will excite and motivate your students. A hands-on experience will differ from a theatrical performance in terms of learning style.
Consider the Age and Needs of Your Students
Not all incursions suit every age group.
- Primary Students: Younger learners often respond best to interactive, visually engaging programs with simple language and plenty of participation.
- Secondary Students: Older students may appreciate deeper content, real-world applications, or career-oriented workshops.
- Special Requirements: Factor in accessibility for students with additional needs, including physical, sensory, or cognitive support.
Check the Provider’s Reputation and Experience
A good incursion provider is not only knowledgeable but also skilled at engaging a school audience.
- Reviews and Testimonials: Look for feedback from other schools, especially those of similar size and demographics.
- Experience in Schools: Presenters who regularly work with schools understand classroom dynamics, behaviour management, and age-appropriate delivery.
- Safety and Compliance: Ensure they hold a current Working With Children Check (WWCC) and have public liability insurance.
Assess Practical Considerations
Even the best incursion can fall flat if the logistics don’t work.
- Space Requirements: Confirm if it can be run in a classroom, hall, or outdoor area and whether you have the right facilities.
- Group Size: Some programs work best with smaller groups, while others can cater to a whole year level.
- Timing and Flexibility: Check the duration and whether the provider can adapt to your timetable or split sessions if needed.
Balance Cost with Value
Budget is always a factor, but cheapest isn’t always best.
- Per-Student Cost: Break down the total fee to see what each student is effectively paying.
- Inclusions: Some incursions provide all materials, while others require you to supply certain items.
- Long-Term Impact: A high-quality incursion can have lasting educational benefits, making it worth a slightly higher investment.
Ensure Relevance and Cultural Sensitivity
In a diverse Australian school environment, relevance and respect matter.
- Cultural Accuracy: If the incursion relates to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories or other cultural topics, ensure the content is accurate and delivered with authenticity.
- Inclusivity: Choose programs that represent a range of perspectives and avoid stereotypes.
- Local Connections: Whenever possible, consider providers who can share insights specific to your community or region.
Get Student and Teacher Feedback
Involving both staff and students in the decision-making process can increase engagement.
- Pre-Incursion Survey: Ask students what they’d like to explore or which topics excite them.
- Teacher Input: Seek recommendations from colleagues who have previously booked incursions.
- Post-Incursion Reflection: After the event, review what worked well and what could be improved for next time.
Plan Ahead for Maximum Benefit
An incursion’s impact can be amplified through preparation and follow-up.
- Pre-Work: Introduce key concepts in class before the day so students arrive with context.
- Post-Activities: Reinforce learning through related projects, discussions, or creative tasks.
- Link to Assessment: Where possible, connect the incursion to assessment tasks or portfolios.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right school incursion is about more than ticking a box on the calendar. By aligning it with your learning goals, considering student needs, and ensuring quality and relevance, you can create an experience that’s both educational and inspiring. The right incursion will not only complement your curriculum but also leave your students talking about it long after the last bell rings.
