Expanding the Colony

About the program

Students explore the former farm and examine a range of sources to learn about the expansion of NSW in the 19th century and investigate its impacts on the environment, the people of the Boorooberongal clan and the colonisers. They examine displays and artefacts to investigate Indigenous land management, and farm structures and technologies as evidence of European farming practices and the challenges of irrigation.

A walk through the ground floor of the house offers a glimpse into the privileged world of the Rouse family. Working in small groups, students discuss documents, objects and images relating to local people who helped shape the colony, including free settler Richard Rouse and convict servant Margaret Catchpole.

356 Annangrove Road, Rouse Hill NSW 2155. Phone +61 2 9627 6777

Rouse Hill Estate

356 Annangrove Road, Rouse Hill NSW 2155. Phone +61 2 9627 6777
  • Wheelchair accessible
Cost (GST free)
From $200 for up to 20 students

See page for cost scale details

Duration
90 minutes
Session offered
Monday to Friday
Maximum students
60 per session
Supervision ratios

The supervision ratio is 1:10 for primary groups and 1:15 for secondary groups. Teachers and parents attend free of charge at these ratios. One carer per student with special needs will be admitted free of charge

Additional visitor costs

Each additional visitor will be charged at the concession rate of $12

Browse all
Students sitting on the hillside, creating a watercolour painting of the view towards the Blue Mountains.
Onsite

A Colonial Eye

Students investigate the role of artists during the early colonial period and consider how they contributed to the development of the colony

Onsite

Bailed Up!

Students explore the impact of the gold rush on law and order in the colony of NSW, and of bushrangers on the Australian identity

Two girls in school uniform making string in exhibition space with other students behind.
Onsite

Garuwanga Gurad (stories that belong to Country)

During this program at Museum of Sydney, on the site of first Government House, students have a unique opportunity to explore links between Indigenous and European histories, cultures and perspectives in the expanding Sydney colony of the 1800

Two girls dressed in costume in large dormitory style room.
Onsite

Home: Convicts, Migrants and First Peoples

What was it like to be a convict living at the Hyde Park Barracks?