At NI Water, we’re calling on primary school pupils across Northern Ireland to take on a truly mighty mission-help us battle the stinkiest, slimiest sewer monsters lurking below our streets!
Fatbergs and wet wipe monsters grow in our sewers when the wrong things are flushed down toilets or poured down sinks. These grim creatures thrive on wipes, fats, oils, and grease, turning our underground network into their own monster playground. But with your creativity and imagination, you can help us stop them for good.
Become a Sewer Superhero
We’re inviting pupils to take part in our What Lies Beneath schools art competition and show us their best monster‑busting ideas:
Foundation Stage & Key Stage 1
Pick one of our Wipezilla colouring sheets and bring it to life with your brightest colours and funniest ideas. (Sheet 1, Sheet 2)
Key Stage 2
Design your own A3 WANTED poster. Create a unique sewer monster and tell us:
- Who they are
- How they were formed
- How everyone can prevent them from causing chaos
We’re looking for entries filled with imagination, humour, and creativity.
Instructions for teachers.
Inspiration for teachers.
Key Dates
- Entry deadline: Friday 1st May 2026, 5pm
- Awards ceremony: Friday 12th June 2026
Prizes will be awarded for each primary school year group, plus a dedicated category for Special Needs Schools.
Why We Need Your Help
Our Education Officers, see the results of monster mischief every day. Wet wipes, grease, and leftover cooking fats turn into huge fatbergs and wet wipe masses that block our pipes, cause sewage floods, and create terrible smells.
When this happens, our teams must put on protective gear and head underground to break down these sewer beasts. It’s a tough job and one we’re determined to prevent with your help.
How to Keep Sewer Monsters Away
Here’s how pupils and families can help protect our sewers:
- Flush only the 3 Ps: Pee, Poo, and (toilet) Paper
- Bin wet wipes, nappies, and cotton buds—never flush them
- Pour leftover fats and grease into a container instead of the sink
- Spread the word at home—bonus points for monster voices!
Take Part Today
Are you ready to help us defeat the monsters lurking beneath our feet? Grab your crayons, markers, and wildest ideas and get involved in the What Lies Beneath art competition.If you have any questions, you can contact our Education Officer, Anna Killen, at education@niwater.com.
Let’s work together to keep our sewers clear, clean, and monster‑free!
