From classroom to canopy
Hands-on field biology experiences at Hidden Vale Research Station (HVRS)
The Hidden Vale Research Station offers engaging, curriculum-aligned day trips for Senior High School Biology Students. Guided by UQ science professionals, students take part in immersive field workshops designed to support Biology Unit 3 and the IA2 assessment. Activities include professional sampling methods, ecological surveying, and data analysis across a variety of ecosystems at a working research station located south west of Brisbane between Ipswich and Lockyer Valley.
Package includes:
- Full-day program of field and classroom activities aligned with QLD Senior Biology curriculum
- Hands-on experience using professional scientific equipment and survey techniques
- Diverse ecological data collection in woodland, wetland and grassland habitats, designed to support IA2 student experiments
- Customised student workbooks and teaching resources
- Interactive lecture on formulating research questions and analysing field data, aligned with the latest Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) syllabus requirements
At the conclusion of the program, students will return to the classroom with:
- An authentic and diverse set of environmental data, from which an equally diverse variety of research questions can be developed, with scope for each student to design a unique investigation
- A thorough understanding of survey design and how workshop methods directly relate to practicals completed in the classroom (based on former mandatory practicals)
- A clearly formulated research question
- Guidance on statistial analyses and how to interpret results
- Background and contextual knowledge about HVRS and the study sites to inform discussions and reporting
Availlability:
Hidden Vale Research Station offers IA2 Collection Days during the first 3 weeks of February (weeks 2-4 of term 1)
Spots fill quickly—book early to secure your preferred date. Alternate dates may be available on request.
Pricing:
- $850 for the first class (up to 25 students)
- Additional $450 for each subsequent class (up to 25 students per class)
- Maximum of 3 classes per day
If your class is small, we may be able to pair you with another school.
Transport to and from the property is your school's responsibility. All necessary permits and equipment are included in your package.
For more information or to make a booking, please contact us at:
