About the program

River Rangers is a voluntary program that is largely conducted outside classroom time. The program has been designed as a precursor to Parks and Wildlife’s Bush Rangers Cadet program, which operates in secondary schools throughout Western Australia. The River Rangers program currently engages 15 schools throughout the Perth metropolitan area.

River Rangers is part of the broader Cadets WA program coordinated and funded by the Department of Local Government and Communities with individual unit coordination provided by Parks and Wildlife.

River Rangers aims to increase primary school students' understanding of river science. It is based on an ongoing process of identifying an issue, planning, taking action and reflecting on the outcomes.

Program objectives

• Involve students in the protection of the rivers
• Establish recognition of local river systems
• Increase understanding and engagement with the importance of conserving European and Noongar cultural history

Outcomes

The training conducted by Cadet Units aims to ensure that cadets:

• Develop leadership and team building skills
• Improve their self-confidence
• Develop and improve their interpersonal skills
• Develop and improve their initiative skills
• Take an active role in the community and develop a sense of community service