Students will explore coastal ecosystems, mountain habitats, and marine reserves while learning how biodiversity, conservation, and Indigenous knowledge intersect to shape resilient landscapes. Through fieldwork, citizen science, hands-on workshops, and cultural immersion, students not only study pressing environmental challenges—they become part of the solution.

As they journey from the urban core to sacred lands and living reefs, students collaborate on real-world sustainability projects designed to create lasting impact in their own communities.

Australia offers a one-of-a-kind environment for exploring climate resilience and ecological innovation, where ancient wisdom and cutting-edge science meet. From snorkeling in protected marine zones to learning bushfire management from Aboriginal rangers, students gain direct access to experts, ecosystems, and tools that foster a deep understanding of our planet’s interconnected systems. Australia Environmental Innovation with Florida Film and STEM Academy equips students with critical thinking, global awareness, and the confidence to lead as young environmental changemakers—making it not just a trip, but a transformative experience.

Students arrive at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport and are greeted by the FFSA team. After transferring to their accommodation in central Sydney, students settle in, unpack, and enjoy a group lunch.

In the afternoon, the program begins with a Welcome to Country ceremony led by a local Aboriginal Elder. This traditional greeting honors the land’s custodians and introduces students to the importance of Indigenous knowledge in environmental stewardship.

Afterward, students participate in an orientation session and team-building games to set the tone for the week ahead. Dinner follows, with evening downtime to rest and adjust.

After breakfast, the group visits Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden for an Urban Ecology Workshop. Students explore the relationship between green space and urban biodiversity, learning how native plants and pollinators contribute to ecosystem services.

In the afternoon, students tour Barangaroo Reserve, a restored waterfront site built with Indigenous consultation. Guided by sustainability educators, they learn about recycled materials, native plant reintroduction, and climate-resilient design.

Evening: Students return to the hotel for dinner and a creative mapping activity: sketching a timeline of Sydney’s transformation from ancient landscape to smart sustainable city.

This day explores Sydney’s world-famous coastline. The group begins with a guided Coastal Health and Marine Debris workshop at Bondi Beach, analyzing wave patterns, erosion, and plastic pollution.

After lunch, students hike the Bondi to Coogee trail, stopping at key environmental zones to discuss marine ecosystems, coastal vegetation, and cultural significance.

Back in the city, students participate in an interactive session to launch their Student Sustainability Projects, identifying themes like marine protection, water access, or urban greening.

Today, the group travels west to the Blue Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Area. Guided by local park rangers, students explore the delicate mountain ecosystems, learning about eucalypt forest regeneration, fire ecology, and endangered species.

In the afternoon, students visit a conservation nursery or research station to understand how replanting and habitat restoration projects are planned and executed.

In the evening, return to Sydney for dinner and group reflection. Students journal what they learned from highland biodiversity and consider parallels to their home regions.

The group spends the day at Taronga Zoo to see how zoos support wildlife health, research, and rewilding efforts.

After lunch, students meet a conservation specialist and participate in a hands-on session about species tracking, captive breeding, or vet care. They’ll also explore the role of zoos in climate adaptation and species resilience.

Dinner is followed by project group meetings, where students select focus topics and divide tasks.

Students head north to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, one of the most culturally significant natural reserves in Australia. Led by Aboriginal guides, students hike sacred trails and visit rock engravings while learning about bush medicine, native firestick practices, and land care traditions.

The experience emphasizes the deep ecological wisdom embedded in Aboriginal culture and its vital role in sustainable land management.

Evening: Back in Sydney, students regroup for a fireside-style storytelling session. They reflect on how Indigenous perspectives can inform their project design.

Students meet marine biologists for a session at Watson's Bay, contributing data to ongoing reef health studies.

They explore seagrass meadows, mangroves, and reef zones, observing species like dolphins, sea dragons, and rays. Post-snorkel analysis includes identifying indicator species and water clarity metrics.

In the evening, students enjoy a weather-dependent group barbecue by the beach, followed by a guided nocturnal walk to spot native wildlife.

The day begins with a student-led beach cleanup, where groups log and analyze their findings for inclusion in a real conservation database (like Tangaroa Blue’s AMDI project).

After breakfast, the FFSA team facilitates a sustainability storytelling workshop: how do we communicate environmental problems—and solutions—to others?

The group prepares for final project presentations. Evening includes dinner and downtime or optional creative working sessions.

Students spend the morning finalizing their Sustainability Innovation Projects, applying feedback, and preparing their visuals, models, or pitches.

In the afternoon, they present their work in a “Shark Tank” or showcase format—celebrating creative solutions ranging from school-wide recycling schemes to digital marine awareness campaigns.

The evening ends with a farewell dinner and certificate ceremony by Sydney Harbour, where students reflect on what they’ve learned, contributed, and created together.

After breakfast, students pack up, say goodbye, and transfer to the airport for departure. With strengthened eco-literacy, cultural insight, and teamwork skills, they leave ready to apply their learning to the real world.

1. Who supervises the students during the trip?
Our programs are led by experienced educators and trained facilitators who accompany the group throughout the entire trip. We maintain a low student-to-staff ratio to ensure safety, guidance, and personalized attention.

2. What kind of accommodations are provided?
Students will stay in a centrally located, secure hotel. Rooms are shared by gender, and all accommodations are supervised. The location is chosen for safety, accessibility, and proximity to major learning sites.

3. How is student safety handled during city travel and excursions?
Student safety is our top priority. We use private transport when needed and always travel in groups. Students are briefed on safety expectations and emergency procedures, and our team maintains close communication with all participants.

4. Will there be free time, and how is it managed?
Yes, students will have some structured downtime, always under supervision or within clearly communicated boundaries.

5. What meals are included?
All breakfasts, lunch and dinners are included. We accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences with advance notice. Meals are a mix of group dining experiences and opportunities to try local cuisine.

6. What educational value does this trip offer?
This program blends meaningful learning with global citizenship, cultural awareness, innovation, and critical thinking. Students will explore how communities address real-world challenges—and they’ll apply these ideas through hands-on activities and projects that inspire new perspectives.

7. What does a typical day look like?
Each day includes a balance of expert-led sessions, hands-on activities, cultural exploration, and group collaboration. Evenings often include reflection, guest talks, or interactive challenges that reinforce learning.

8. What happens if a student gets sick or there’s an emergency?
We have detailed health and safety protocols in place, including access to local healthcare providers. Parents are contacted promptly in the event of any health concerns. Staff are trained in first aid and emergency response.

9. What is included in the program cost?
The cost typically covers accommodation, meals, activities, entrance fees, local transport, staff supervision, and educational materials. Flights and travel insurance may be arranged separately unless otherwise noted.

10. What do we pack?
We’ll provide a full packing list, travel guidelines, and pre-trip resources to help students arrive informed and ready to learn.