There is growing interest in the use of low enthalpy geothermal (LEG) energy schemes, whereby heated water is extracted from sandstone aquifers for civic heating projects. While prevalent in countries with volcanic activity, a recently proposed scheme for Manchester offered the perfect opportunity to engage students in the viability of this form of energy capture. This article details how second-year advanced-level physics students (A2, age 17-18) were given the freedom to design their own experiments and analyses of the proposed LEG scheme. The project provided opportunities for the students to improve their understanding of thermal physics and the "How science works" sections of the A2 syllabus, while building their teamworking skills.