Expanding the colony
About the program
Students explore the former farm and examine a range of sources to learn about the expansion of NSW in the 19th century and investigate its impacts on the environment, the people of the Boorooberongal clan and the colonisers. They examine displays and artefacts to investigate Indigenous land management, and farm structures and technologies as evidence of European farming practices and the challenges of irrigation.
A walk through the ground floor of the house offers a glimpse into the privileged world of the Rouse family. Working in small groups, students discuss documents, objects and images relating to local people who helped shape the colony, including free settler Richard Rouse and convict servant Margaret Catchpole.
Stage 3 History
The Australian Colonies
Key inquiry questions:
- What do we know about the lives of people in Australia’s colonial past and how do we know?
- How did an Australian colony develop over time and why?
- How did colonial settlement change the environment?
HT3-1 Describes and explains the significance of people, groups, places and events to the development of Australia
HT3-2 Describes and explains different experiences of people living in Australia over time
HT3-5 Applies a variety of skills of historical inquiry and communication
Cross-curriculum priorities
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures
Sustainability
Complementary programs: A Colonial Eye; Life at the Barracks: Convicts and Migrants
Up to 20 Students: $200
Up to 40 Students: $385
Up to 60 Students: $575
Up to 80 Students: $760
Up to 100 Students: $905
Up to 120 Students: $1,055
Up to 140 Students: $1,130
Up to 160 Students: $1,230
You can alter your booking numbers up until 7 days prior to your visit. We will call you a week before your booking to confirm final numbers and requirements. You will be invoiced for the full cost of your program a week prior to your booking. Payment can be made by Credit Card, EFTPOS or cheque (payable to Historic Houses Trust of NSW). Cancellations made within 7 days of a booking will incur the full cost for the program. Cancellations made within 2 weeks of your visit will be invoiced for 50% of the total booking. Cancellations must be made in writing.
- Please plan to arrive before the start time of your booked program to allow for cloaking, toilet visits and/or a refreshment break for the students. If you arrive late, some elements and activities may need to be cut from the program to keep to the scheduled finish time.
- Large groups will be divided up into smaller groups for activities in the museums.
- Bags, food and drinks are not permitted in the museums and cloaking facilities are provided.
- Photography policies vary between the museums so please ask a member of staff for details.
- Teachers and carers are required to remain with their groups at all times.
- Disciplining students remains the responsibility of teachers and carers accompanying the group.
- Please let us know before your visit if any of your students have special needs or learning difficulties so we can plan to accommodate their needs during the visit.
Key information
Location
Rouse Hill Estate
356 Annangrove Road, Rouse Hill NSW 2155
Bookings +61 2 8239 2211
Cost (GST free)
From $200 for up to 20 students
Duration
90 minutes
Session offered
Monday to Friday
Maximum students
60 per session
Supervision ratios
The supervision ratio is 1:10 for primary groups and 1:15 for secondary groups. Teachers and parents attend free of charge at these ratios. One carer per student with special needs will be admitted free of charge
Additional visitor costs
Each additional visitor will be charged at the concession rate of $12
Complementary program
Onsite
A colonial eye
Students investigate the role of artists during the early colonial period and consider how they contributed to the development of the colony