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Cockatoo Island

FAQs

When are programs available?

Programs are offered on weekdays and are subject to availability. Late afternoon and weekend sessions can also be arranged for schools that are camping on the island.

How long are the Education programs?

The duration of the Education programs are 2 hours 45 minutes.

How many students can we bring?

Excursion programs can cater for groups of 10 - 100 students. Groups with less than 10 students can be accommodated, however the minimum fee for 12 students will be charged. Schools wishing to bring larger groups should book two or more separate excursion dates. Alternatively, schools can attend the program in half-day sessions.

What is the required student/teacher ratio?

The Harbour Trust's safety policy requires the following supervision ratios:
Primary 1:10 Secondary 1:20 Special needs 1:1

How much does the excursion cost?

Most Cockatoo Island education programs cost $16 per student. Accompanying teachers and supervisors are free. Please note that travel to and from the island is not included in this cost. An invoice outlining payment options will be sent after the day of your visit.

What should we bring?

Every student should bring a hat, sunscreen, a drink bottle, packed lunch, wet weather gear and appropriate walking footwear.

Is food available on the island?

There is a cafe on the island, The Canteen, however school groups should bring a packed lunch with them. Lunch breaks are scheduled during the tour, but due to the size of the island it is not possible to access the cafe while the program is underway. Students are welcome to make purchases at the cafe before and after the program if time allows. Please note that chewing gum is not allowed on the island.

How do we get to the island?

Public ferry:

Harbour City Ferries (formerly Sydney Ferries) service Cockatoo Island with the Parramatta Rivercat service and Balmain/Woolwich service. Depending on the service, schools can board from Circular Quay, Darling Harbour and a variety of other locations.

For timetable information, please visit the 131500 website.

For information on how to get to Circular Quay and other wharves, please visit the Transport Infoline website.

Schools need to arrange and pay for their ferry tickets directly through Harbour City Ferries. Please contact the Harbour City Ferries School Group Coordinator on (02) 8113 3011 or (02) 8113 5424 or email Kirio on groups@harbourcityferries.com.au for more information or visit the Harbour City Ferries website.

Click for more information on Getting to Cockatoo Island

Is there a Risk Assessment?

What is the Cancellation Policy?

Excursions will run regardless of wet weather conditions. It is essential that students have appropriate wet weather clothing and bring umbrellas as most of the excursion is conducted outdoors. In the event of extreme weather conditions where vessel operators advise against travel, the Harbour Trust will contact the school to arrange an alternative date. Please be advised that the Harbour Trust requires 24 hours notice of cancellations. If a school chooses to cancel an excursion without providing 24 hours notice, the Harbour Trust will invoice the school for the cost of the Educators booked to run the excursion.

Can I visit the island if I am not taking part in an Education program?

Schools are welcome to visit Cockatoo Island in a self-directed capacity. The teacher organising the self-directed visit should still complete an online booking form.

Can schools camp on the Island?

School camping packages are available. For more information, please contact the Cockatoo Island Accommodation Office on (02) 8898 9774 or email camp@cockatooisland.gov.au.

Click here for more information on camping on Cockatoo Island.

How do we book a program?

To book a program, please complete an online booking enquiry form. The Harbour Trust will then contact you to confirm your booking.

Where can I get more information?

Contact the Harbour Trust Education Team
Tel: (02) 8969 2181
Email: education@harbourtrust.gov.au