Launched in 2023, the School Impact Program is a 10-year initiative designed to give South Australian schools access to grants of up to $20,000 for creative, wellbeing-focused, and educational projects. The program aims to ease the financial burden on families while helping schools develop engaging spaces for students to learn, play, and grow.

Now in its second year, the initiative has already made a big impact across both metro and regional areas, with projects like bike tracks, wellbeing wagons, and imagination spaces transforming how students learn outside the classroom.

Helping students learn beyond the classroom

At Woomera Area School, the outdoor learning space will give students a place to explore, connect with nature, and take their lessons beyond the four walls of the classroom. The new area will promote hands-on learning, teamwork, and wellbeing — key themes that align with the goals of Credit Union SA’s program.

Other schools also received funding for innovative ideas, including an Imaginarium inside a shipping container at Christies Downs Primary, a bike track at Orroroo Area School, and wellbeing wagons at Port Noarlunga Primary.

Kate from Orroroo Area School says, “Receiving the funding from Credit Union SA has played a vital role in helping bring this student-led project to life! Work has officially started on our bike track, and the students are proud to know this will be a wonderful space for our whole community to enjoy.”

Year 6 student Marlie from Christies Downs adds: “The Imaginarium is a safe place for us to connect with nature, a place where everyone’s imagination can thrive because your imagination can go with you anywhere.”

This year’s top funding recipients were Orroroo Area School and Booleroo Centre District School, both located near the Flinders Ranges — communities that have faced the ongoing challenges of drought. Their projects, along with those at schools like Woomera, reflect the spirit of innovation and community connection that the SIP program was created to support.

Each application is carefully reviewed by an independent panel made up of Credit Union SA team members and Department for Education representatives, ensuring that funds go where they will make the greatest difference.

Building brighter futures for SA kids

For schools like Woomera Area School, the School Impact Program is more than funding — it’s a chance to make learning more inspiring and inclusive for every child. Outdoor learning spaces like theirs encourage imagination, wellbeing, and a stronger sense of community.

Through this program, Credit Union SA remains committed to putting money back into South Australian classrooms — with a long-term goal of providing $1 million in funding over the next decade.

Families and educators can find out more about how to apply or get involved by visiting the Credit Union SA School Impact Program at creditunionsa.com.au/community/school-impact-program