Transitions – Small Schools Creative Arts Camp

Region: Rural South and West | Taronga Western Plains Zoo
Year 5 and 6 students from small schools
Program Dance Drama Film Music Visual arts
Tags: Circus arts, Dance, Disability, Inclusive opportunities, Media arts, Percussion, Teacher professional development (PD)

Pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! In 2026, the WILDarts – Transitions Small Schools Creative Arts Camp invites Year 5 and 6 students from small schools across regional and rural NSW to embark on a creative safari like no other. Designed to support students as they transition into the vast savannah of high school life, this camp is a chance to explore, create, and discover new strengths in a truly inspiring setting.

 

Enquiries

Sue Dawson
Arts Coordination Officer
Phone
0402 992897

Venue

Taronga Western Plains Zoo

Obley Road
Dubbo NSW 2830
Australia

Open Map

Resources

Gallery

Image
large group of students posing for a photo at camp

What is WILDarts?

Set among the sights and sounds of the wild, this one-of-a-kind camp is more than just an excursion – it’s a journey of self-discovery. Students will build teamwork, confidence, and resilience while working alongside industry-leading artists and fellow adventurers from other schools.

This includes the iconic ZooSnooz experience – a rare opportunity for students to be fully immersed in the magic of the zoo after dark!

The expedition culminates in a spectacular showcase performance, where students share the treasures of their creative journey with family and friends – a celebration of courage, imagination, and pride.

Throughout the camp, students will trek across a wide creative landscape, participating in art forms such as: dance, drama, musical theatre, circus arts, film making and photography, Aboriginal arts, visual and creative arts and more!

The 2026 WILDarts Creative Arts Camp promises an unforgettable adventure, equipping students with lifelong skills and sending them home ready to roar as they step into high school.

Camp dates

In 2026, schools can apply for three thrilling expeditions:

  • Camp 1: Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo – Wednesday 22 to Friday 24 July 2026 (Term 3 Week 1)
  • Camp 2: Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo – Tuesday 28 to Thursday 30 July 2026 (Term 3 Week 2)
  • Camp 3: Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo – Monday 3 to Wednesday 5 August 2026 (Term 3 Week 3)

🔎 Want the full safari map?

For comprehensive camp details, please visit the TSSCAC26 – WILDarts Google Site.

Schools

Applications are now closed.

Schools wishing to be considered as late submissions, please contact Sue Dawson to discuss.

Students – how to join the safari

Students will be nominated by their school principal.

Applications for selected students will open on Wednesday 4 March (Term 1 Week 6).

To secure your position in the herd at WILDarts 2026, a parent/carer will be required to complete the TSSCAC safari acceptance form by Friday 27 March 2026 (Term 1 Week 9). This form will be sent directly to selected families on Wednesday 4 March.

All Arts Units programs are inclusive. If support is required to participate in Transitions – Small Schools Creative Arts Camp, please email susan.i.dawson@det.nsw.edu.au so we can assist.