SACE Stage 2 Outdoor Education exam-day guide
SACE Stage 2 Outdoor Education · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Provider-issued assessment and equipment list
Re-read the exact brief and bring only what is required or permitted. (needs_review: required and prohibited items vary by provider; confirm with your teacher/provider.)
Water and hydration plan
Bring the capacity your provider specifies and know whether refill points exist. (needs_review: confirm minimum water volume and refill arrangements with the provider.)
Food and energy snacks
Pack enough food for the duration and conditions, including an emergency snack. Follow any provider rules about food storage and allergies.
Weather-appropriate clothing layers
Bring insulating layers, rain/wind protection, and spare dry clothing as advised for the forecast and activity.
Sturdy, broken-in footwear
Use footwear suitable for the terrain and conditions; avoid new boots on assessment day.
Personal medication and first-aid items
Carry prescribed medication and any personal first-aid supplies, and tell the supervisor what you carry and how to use it.
Sun and insect protection
Bring sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and insect protection as appropriate for the environment and season.
Navigation and timekeeping tools if permitted
Bring map, compass, watch, or approved GPS only if the provider allows them. (needs_review: confirm the phone, GPS, and navigation-aid policy with the provider.)
Identification and assessment documentation
Carry your SACE student ID or photo ID if required, plus any permission or medical forms. (needs_review: confirm exactly which ID and forms the provider requires.)
Emergency contact and itinerary
Leave your route, timings, and emergency contact with a trusted person, and confirm the provider’s communication and emergency plan.
Notebook, pen, or approved recording method
Bring what you need to record observations or evidence if the assessment requires it, in a waterproof container.
Charged phone and power bank if permitted
Keep devices charged for safety communication only where allowed. (needs_review: confirm whether phones may be carried and used during the assessment.)
Plan the day
Re-read the assessment brief and equipment list; ask your teacher/provider about anything unclear, including ID, phone, and navigation rules.
Check the forecast, route conditions, and any closures or hazards; discuss contingency plans with your group or supervisor.
Inspect gear for damage and function, especially footwear, rain protection, first aid, and navigation tools; replace or repair anything doubtful.
Confirm meeting time, location, transport, group roles, and the provider’s check-in and emergency procedures.
Pack your bag and weigh it; lay out clothing and equipment so nothing is left behind.
Prepare food and water containers, charge devices, and download any permitted maps or information.
Recheck the weather and adjust layers, food, and water; prioritise sleep and hydration.
Eat a substantial breakfast, arrive early, and complete a final gear check against the provider list.
Attend the safety briefing, submit any required ID or forms, and confirm the emergency and communication plan.
Follow the safety brief and group plan; stay within the agreed group and route unless instructed otherwise.
Manage pace, time, food, and water; check in at agreed intervals and speak up early if conditions or your wellbeing change.
Record required observations or evidence accurately and honestly, without disturbing the environment or other groups.
Rules to check
Follow all safety instructions and provider rules; if you are unsure about an action or boundary, ask the supervisor before proceeding.
Carry and use the required equipment. Do not bring prohibited items unless the provider has confirmed an exception in writing.
Carry your SACE student ID or photo ID if required; confirm the exact identification policy with your provider before the day.
Use scheduled breaks for food, water, and rest; tell the supervisor promptly if you need an additional break or feel unwell.
Stay with your group and within sight or call of your supervisor; do not leave the route or activity area alone.
Use phones and electronic devices only for safety or assessment purposes where permitted; confirm the device policy with the provider.
Disclose relevant medical conditions, medications, allergies, or injuries to the supervisor before the assessment starts.
Ask your teacher/provider how the practical assessment is scored and weighted, and complete your own work without comparing or interfering with other candidates.