With students and teachers returning to the classroom, it is the perfect time to look at encouraging young minds to dive into the world of water with SA Water’s education program, The Well, providing free, hands on learning experiences.

Designed for primary, secondary and university levels, The Well offers a variety of excursions to a range of SA Water operational sites, incursions and educational resources, connecting young minds to the vital role water plays in their lives and the environment.

SA Water’s Manager of Brand and Community Connection Kellie McDonald said students have the opportunity to learn about water sources, the process of managing and delivering safe, clean water and reliable wastewater services to over 1.5 million South Australians.

“The Well helps foster a greater understanding of the water ‘life cycle’ and how we fit into it, the complexity of water treatment and supply, and the importance of water wise behaviours.” Kellie said.

“Students gain an insight into water management by engaging in hands-on workshops, presentations or site tours, and learning is extended into the classroom with our online resources.”

Excursions are available at several of SA Water’s operational sites:

• Adelaide Desalination Plant: Discover how seawater is transformed into fresh drinking water, providing a climate-independent water source for Adelaide.
• Happy Valley Water Treatment Plant: Gain an understanding of how reservoir water is treated to supply up to 60 per cent of metropolitan Adelaide’s drinking water.
• Glenelg Wastewater Treatment Plant: Uncover the science behind wastewater treatment and learn how renewable energy powers essential services.
• Reservoir reserves: Students can explore reservoir reserves, combining outdoor learning with biodiversity and sustainability education. Guided ranger talks and self-guided excursions provide a deeper understanding of the role reservoirs play in water delivery and environmental protection.

“For regional-based schools, who may be unable to travel to these sites, we offer an incursion program with flexible, curriculum-aligned presentations and support materials, delivered by our education team,” Kellie said.

“To support educators, The Well also offers a range of free digital resources aligned with the Australian Curriculum. These resources complement classroom learning and enhance understanding of water-related topics.”

To learn more about The Well, visit sawater.com.au.