Bringing Geography to Life: Year 9 Explore the Havant Thicket Reservoir

Adult presenter points to a classroom screen showing an aerial image and diagrams of the Havant Thicket Reservoir, with pupils seated facing forward.

Our Year 9 pupils took part in workshops exploring a major local infrastructure project and the role it plays in protecting our environment.

Connecting classroom learning to real-world environmental challenges

Adult presenter stands at the front of a classroom, gesturing while speaking to pupils seated at desks. A screen beside them shows a slide about water use in the UK, including images and bullet points, with a whiteboard visible behind.

We were delighted to welcome Amy Rushton, Communications and Engagement Officer from Portsmouth Water, to Swanmore College today for a series of workshops with our Year 9 pupils.

Amy led three engaging sessions focused on the Havant Thicket Reservoir, a major infrastructure project being built right on our doorstep. The workshops gave pupils a real world look at water scarcity, climate resilience, and how vital local chalk streams are protected, helping them see how the Geography they learn in the classroom applies beyond school.

Wide view of a classroom with rows of pupils seated at desks, facing an adult presenter at the front. A large screen displays a slide related to the Havant Thicket Reservoir project, while classroom posters and resources are visible around the room.

Exploring careers and future pathways

The sessions also highlighted the wide range of careers involved in projects like this, from engineering and environmental roles to communications and project delivery. Pupils were encouraged to think about how they could play a part in tackling future environmental challenges.

A big thank you to Amy and the Portsmouth Water team for an inspiring and informative visit.

Close-up of a classroom display screen showing a presentation slide titled about economic benefits, with bullet points and figures alongside a photograph of construction workers wearing protective clothing and helmets.

Tagged Geography Class of 2028