Local walking tour business, Newcastle Afoot, has announced the launch of a new mural and school education program providing immersive student tours that explore Newcastle’s rich history, geography and visual arts.
The learning experience has been developed with the support of a major sponsor, Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC), which plays a key role in delivering revitalisation projects across the city.
The new experiences will include hands-on dress-up activities that students complete on their walking tour, helping them imagine themselves as convicts or key people in history.
With the HCCDC sponsorship, Newcastle Afoot has also recruited an excursions program coordinator to consult with schools and ensure students can meet important syllabus outcomes.
Additionally, the introduction of the new program comes a change for a new meeting place for Newcastle Afoot tours.
A colourful ground mural has been painted by street artist, Inari, at The Station in Newcastle East, exploring Newcastle’s culture and history.
Director of Newcastle Afoot, Becky Kiil, said they were proud to create fun and informative primary and high school excursions that would help teachers meet student learning outcomes.
“This is a great city to explore on foot with its unique history, colourful street art, heritage spaces and stunning waterfront,” Kiil said.
“With the city’s transformation continuing, it’s only getting better.
“We think Newcastle is just as unique as The Rocks in Sydney in its value to learning about Australia, our history and how we are changing.
“We envision this city becoming the preferred excursion location for schools from our region and beyond.”
Chief Executive of the HCCDC, Valentina Misevska, said they were excited to be a part of the initiative.
“We’re thrilled to support this fantastic education initiative and congratulate Newcastle Afoot on developing this innovative program,” Misevska said.
Newcastle Afoot is celebrating its fifth birthday by adding the excursions program to their regular business of walking tours, corporate events, scavenger hunts and placemaking events.
Hayley McMahon