Over 9,000 young lives transformed as Children’s University turns 10

More than 1,100 children from 48 schools across the region will don their cap and gowns as they graduate from the University of Newcastle’s Children’s University (CU) program this week, marking 10 years of the initiative.

_{Students from Elermore Vale Public School throw their hats to celebrate this special milestone.}

Since its launch 10 years ago, CU Newcastle has partnered with 100 schools and engaged more than 9,300 students, logging over half a million hours of learning across Newcastle, the Hunter, Central Coast, Mid-North Coast, and as far west as Central Darling.

University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO says the program encourages students to try new experiences, helping to build a lifelong love of learning while opening their eyes to future possibilities.

“We couldn’t be prouder of what Children’s University Newcastle has delivered in its first decade. It’s a vital part of our sector-leading Pathways and academic support programs, showing young people that learning happens everywhere – not just in the classroom,” Professor Zelinsky said.

“The impact speaks for itself. Almost three-quarters of current University of Newcastle students who took part in the program say that it significantly influenced their decision to go to university. These results are particularly important given that many of the students come from regional and low socio‑economic areas, where higher education participation has traditionally been lower.

“CU Newcastle is helping to change that narrative. When you empower young learners to be confident in making decisions about their own education, the benefits ripple through their communities. Families become more connected and informed about learning opportunities, and the doors of possibility are opened for everyone.”

The program has a strong focus on equity. In 2025, 22 percent of students who participated in the university’s program identified as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, with 72 percent of those students graduating this year.

By enabling students to choose their own learning experiences and get involved outside the classroom, the program helps them become more engaged in their local and regional community. They also become comfortable being in a university campus setting.

Earlier this year, 1,400 children and families attended more than 344 workshops over six On-Campus Discovery Days across our Newcastle and Central Coast campuses.

For Asenaca Leweniqila, a Bachelor of Education (Primary) student, being a part of CU Newcastle in primary school was a catalyst for her decision to study at the University, showing her that she could take learning into her own hands.

“Children’s University planted a love of learning early on and made the idea of university more exciting than intimidating. It helped me to see that learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom, and that mindset has really stuck with me, shaping my confidence and career goals,” Asenaca said.

“I’m now studying Primary Education at the University of Newcastle, and I am passionate about creating inclusive and engaging learning spaces for all students, particularly those with diverse learning needs and disabilities. I hope to become a teacher who inspires curiosity and confidence in young learners – the same way CU did for me.

“The excitement of choosing my own learning activities during the school holidays gave me a sense of ownership over my learning that felt really cool. Wearing a cap and gown as a primary school student was so memorable and inspired the drive that I have now. It was the first time I saw university as something I could be a part of.”

The University of Newcastle will host six graduation ceremonies from 24 November to 4 December at our Newcastle and Central Coast campuses.

About Children’s University (Newcastle)

Participating children, between 7 and 14 years, are encouraged to discover new learning experiences outside of the classroom, in their local and regional community and on campus. The children build their own learning program by engaging in extracurricular activities throughout the year, recognising that learning happens everywhere and doesn’t have to be constrained by curriculum.

Participants that reach 30 hours of learning, collected in their Children's University Passports, are invited to attend a formal graduation ceremony to celebrate and acknowledge the children (and their supporters) and their commitment to learning.

Learn more about the program, and how to get involved here.

Contact

• Elizabeth Olivier
• Email: Elizabeth.Olivier@newcastle.edu.au

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