What’s New at Sydney Zoo?

Sydney Zoo just launched two new high school science programs:

Stage 4 – Aboriginal Astronomy

Outcomes: SC4-OUT-01 explains how observations are used by scientists to increase knowledge and understanding of the Universe.

Overview: This workshop introduces students to Aboriginal knowledge of astronomy, focusing on how Aboriginal peoples use the stars to predict seasonal changes and followed the moon’s phases for time keeping and sustainability. Through storytelling, students will develop an understanding of the deep scientific knowledge embedded in Aboriginal cultures and leave with a broader appreciation for how First Nations knowledge of space continues to thrive today.

Stage 5 Evolution and Biotechnology

Outcomes: SC5-14LW analyses interactions between components and processes within biological systems; SC5-15LW explains how biological understanding has advanced through scientific discoveries, technological developments and the needs of society.

Overview: Running for just under 2 hours, this extended program can be an introduction or extension of the topic. Students will learn about natural selection and evolution focusing on the adaptations of large carnivores at the zoo and predation success. They will also learn about prey species and adaptations for avoiding predators as well as reproductive pressures and how the ability to reproduce can impact the evolution of a species.

Students will meet live education animals and take part in observations across parts of the zoo. Biotechnology case studies are introduced and students will take a dive into the world of genome studies, cryogenics and cloning as a conservation tool for species around the world.

ADDITIONAL OPTION: schools can add a VR session where they are introduced to the concept of technology connecting people to nature. This VR experience will look at the oceans and importance of sharks and can be included as a component of the workshop for an additional $2 a student.

Science Week 2025

Unlock the secrets of the natural world at Sydney Zoo this Science Week!
Dive into "Decoding the Universe: Exploring the Unknown with Nature’s Hidden Language", where students will uncover the science behind animal communication, patterns in nature, and the hidden codes that shape life itself. From the mathematical precision of a spider’s web to the secret signals between bees, this hands-on adventure will ignite curiosity and bring science to life!

When: August 11th to 15th

What to expect? School excursions to Sydney Zoo during Science Week will include the following:

• An exciting workshop included in your science week excursion*
• Science Week Discovery Trail map and activity sheet for every student
• Discover how to become a citizen scientist
• Free activities and displays all day from Monday to Friday at the Decoding Hub

*Workshop topics will include animal adaptations, communication, zoo of poo, investigating nature, caring for Country and more. They will be delivered by qualified Zoo teachers as well as experts from a range of other agencies and education institutions. The timetable will be confirmed soon.
Workshops can be booked for any stage and will be adjusted to the level of the students attending on the day.

On Wednesday 13th August Science Week Sydney Zoo will be hosting the Zoo of Poo Conference, students can attend workshops and presentations by students from other schools who have been completing microbiome assessments of the hindgut fermenters at Sydney Zoo. Learn all about the zoo within poo!

Find out more and book here.