While controversy remains over the extent and attribution of climate change in the political realm, water resource professionals and educators are aware of the need to develop tools and improve knowledge to asses and address risks in a changing climate. We report on the development, delivery and evaluation of a climate change and risk assessment tool which provides a method for assessing risks and alternative pathways for identifying and adapting to the impacts of climate change. The tool adopts a collaborative approach and is of particular use to manage water risks within the agricultural sector. Professional water-planners doing postgraduate studies from a range of countries, from both highly developed to emerging economies were involved in using this climate change risk management tool. Our approach integrates the elements of theory and practice involving exercises that include quizzes, mind-mapping, group discussion, case studies and risk matrices. Results show that the materials developed met the needs of the students from across 5 regions of the globe, allowing these students to incorporate their previous learning and adapt this new package of materials and approaches for use in their home countries. Analysis of evaluations show that the tools and materials are particularly useful and emphasizes the value of sound learning materials and tools, funding to deliver training, and policy support to accelerate adoption of authentic climate change adaptation practices. The expected benefits of improved education and learning for water planners about climate change will be translated into improved socio-economic and environmental outcomes.