Welsh Water has marked a ground-breaking year for its Education Programme, reaching 94,000 learners in Wales between September 2023 and July 2024.
The education programme, which has grown since the launch of the strategy in 1998, offers a broad range of free and practical learning opportunities within classrooms. Led by the National Curriculum for Wales and tackling several topics, the not-for-profit company has expanded its provision across schools in its area – providing widespread access to teaching and learning resources.
The programme, which is aimed at formal education settings, encourages future generations to consider how much water they use, builds awareness of Dŵr Cymru’s role in the water cycle, and highlights the impact of disposing of items such as cotton-wool buds, wet-wipes and fat, into sewers.
It also inspires an early interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), an interest in the water industry and demonstrates the breadth of career opportunities available. Delivered both on school sites and at the company’s Education Centre at Cilfynydd Wastewater Treatment Works, it offers a broad range of immersive and practical learning.
The Education Team at Welsh Water has dedicated 1,350 hours to teaching pupils in Wales through almost 600 school visits, employing an industry-unique approach of annually seconding teachers for a professional development opportunity with the company for one year. The programme has continued to receive overwhelmingly positive feedback from schools, who have praised the efforts to broaden pupils’ experiences, knowledge, and skills. All sessions are aligned with the four purposes underpinning the National Curriculum for Wales and are offered free of charge, ensuring a valuable and accessible educational experience.
Mount Pleasant School, said of their visit in January:
“During assembly, every child was engaged and contributing – the pace was excellent and the information was accessible to all year groups – lovely participation opportunities. Workshops allowed teamwork, thinking skills, numeracy, oracy – fantastic!”
Llancaeach Junior School, said of their visit in March:
“The assembly and workshops were excellent! Very engaging and enthusiastic delivery. Great use of Welsh by Keith and references to the Four Purposes. Content, resources and teaching were all excellent Pupils (& staff) thoroughly enjoyed.”
Claire Roberts, Head of Community Engagement, said:
“We are thrilled to witness the remarkable reach of our Education Programme this year. Engaging with over 90,000 learners is a testament to our commitment to educating the younger generation about water efficiency and the environment. Our innovative approach, including the secondment of teachers, has been instrumental in delivering a rich educational experience that resonates with both pupils and teachers alike.”
Welsh Water’s commitment to educating the younger generation about the value of water has led to a long-standing reputation within schools across Wales and Hereford. Since the launch of its education strategy, the company has worked with 800,000 pupils. The education program continues to deliver to tens of thousands of pupils every year, ensuring that the next generation is well-equipped with the knowledge and skills required to protect our most precious resource.
