During the recent September school holiday period, Tonsley Innovation District hosted 55 enthusiastic school children from years 3-7 as part of Renewal SA's Works Program sponsorship of the Children's University program. Now in its third year, these events are designed to engage children and young people in exciting, out-of-school learning opportunities and aim to increase their chances for educational achievement and rewards them for taking responsibility for their own learning.

Shown around the precinct by Precinct Director, Philipp Dautel, students were immersed in the rich history and fascinating present of Tonsley. They were excited to discover the 'power of change' as they explored the MAB and learned about it's past as a former car manufacturing site. The schools involved in this session were Morphett Vale Primary School, Reynella South Primary School, Reynella Primary School and Lonsdale Heights Primary School.

A highlight of the tour included discovering the trades of TAFE SA where students were invited to try their hand at gilding. They also explored and took part in a scavenger hunt at Tonsley Forests and played some serious squash at Squash SA's onsite courts.

A highlight of the tour included discovering the trades of TAFE SA where students were invited to try their hand at gilding. They also explored and took part in a scavenger hunt at Tonsley Forests and played some serious squash at Squash SA's onsite courts.

Other activities included a tour of robotics lab at the Flinders New Venture Institute, flexing their artistic skills during a painting session at TAFE SA and breaking a sweat using the MAB's outdoor gym.

"I enjoyed doing the scavenger hunt because I liked working with students from different schools. It was fun to work with new people while discovering the forest" – Sara, Morphett Vale Primary School

“I liked the forest because it was really peaceful. I also enjoyed the scavenger hunt because it challenged our minds” – Mikayla, Morphett Vale Primary School

Wrapping up another great year, Tonsley was proud to host students from the Children's University. It was an exciting, engaging day that showed the versatility of what can be achieved at Tonsley. Thanks to Renewal SA and the Works Program, these tours continue to delight and inspire the imagination and young minds of tomorrow.