Think school incursions are basically just school field trips without the trip bit? Think again. Across NSW, some education providers are flipping the script and delivering hands-on learning experiences and activities that rely on the intimacy and format of a classroom or auditorium to deliver impact.

From interactive sustainability workshops that spark young imaginations to theatre performances that tackle real-life issues, these incursions are proving to be vital in shaping future generations. Whether it's Tomorrow Man redefining what it means to be a mate or Jollybops bringing science to life with explosive experiments, these five great school incursions will not only entertain but also empower students. Jump in to discover the best of what's out there (or in there?), making school incursions fun and impactful.

• Recommended reads:
• The 5 Best Sustainability School Excursions in NSW

Cool Kids First Aid is bringing important safety programs for primary school aged students aged 3 to 12 to schools across Australia. Their interactive sessions teach essential skills like recognising emergencies, calling ‘000’, and basic bleeding control. For younger kids, their program includes fun and friendly characters Lexi and Leo, making learning these necessary skills play-based and fun. Older children (5 to 13) benefit from longer sessions that introduce CPR principles and emergency response techniques.

With tailored resources and a focus on age-appropriate learning, Cool Kids equips students with vital skills that could save lives. Read more to see how they can help transform your classroom into a hub of lifesaving knowledge.

Tomorrow Man is redefining how young men engage with emotional expression, moving beyond outdated stereotypes. With 97% of participants recommending the program, it's clear these workshops make a real impact. Their holistic approach offers tailored programs for students, educators, and parents alike, creating a community-wide transformation.

For Year 9 students, the Connection Code workshop sets the stage for deeper emotional learning, while Years 10-12 can dive into a program that empowers young men to live purposefully. The In Her Shoes workshop promotes empathy by exploring women's experiences, and Middle Ground connects all genders, fostering dialogue about shared and unique experiences. Simply put, for Australian students the Tomorrow Man incursion is a powerful (and much needed) tool for emotional growth and connection.

Some teachers feel that school incursions can be more about entertainment than education; a distraction from the curriculum that lacks educational value. Jollybops proves that theory wrong. Since 2002, they’ve captivated over 700,000 students across NSW, QLD, VIC, and the ACT with STEM incursions featuring real-life science that’s as much a hands-on lesson as it is a show.

Their curriculum-linked performances feature interactive experiments that educate classes, and are a great watch for teachers. If you're looking for a high-value school activity, Jollybops might just change your mind about the whole incursion concept. Ultimately, the effectiveness of an incursion depends on how well it aligns with educational goals and engages students in meaningful ways – Jollybops is a masterclass in that.

If you’re looking for a fun way to teach your class about climate action, check out Be The Future. This Aussie program (also in the UK if you're heading across the pond) is the perfect educational activity, bringing hands-on, playful incursions to early learning centres and primary schools with a focus on sustainability through interactive storytelling and games.

Led by environmentalist Sally and educator Helen, the play-based workshops engage kids aged 2 to 12 in learning about eco-solutions while having a blast. Think digital floor games, treasure hunts, and imaginative play with recycled materials. It’s all about sparking curiosity and creativity, showing little ones how they can become eco-heroes without the doom and gloom. Sounds pretty great to us.

For the best school incursions, school excursions, school camps and school group accommodation check us out at www.edtripper.com