Children's program comes to Newcastle

Thursday, 24 September 2015

Children participating in a new program will get to explore the world of medical and science research this Friday during the Hunter Medical Research Institute's (HMRI) Open Day.

Children's University Newcastle logo

Children's University Newcastle is being implemented by the University of Newcastle (UON) and allows students from across the region to take part in extra-curricular activities and have this learning validated.

The program is designed to develop confidence and aspiration in children outside school hours.

Children's University Newcastle encourages children aged between 7-14 and their families to access a variety of extra learning opportunities at local learning destination providers.

Each participating student receives a Passport that is stamped to validate their learning. When a certain number of hours have been reached, students are invited to a formal graduation ceremony to celebrate their achievements.

A number of learning destinations across the Hunter, Newcastle and Central Coast regions have come on board to support the initiative including museums, libraries and art galleries.

"The University of Newcastle is one of only three universities offering this program in Australia," said Children's University Newcastle Program Coordinator, Selina Darney.

"We are very excited to bring Children's University to Newcastle for families to access a myriad of educational opportunities within the local community, and to encourage children to be curious learners. HMRI Open Day is a great example of what children and their families will have access to. Those with their passports will receive a stamp on the day for a number of activities including demonstrations, workshops and special lectures," she added.

Five schools are currently piloting Children's University Newcastle, which will be open to all school aged children from next year.

Children's University Newcastle is a member of Children's University Australia.

For more information visit childrensuniversity.com.au


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