50 Years of
Open Foundation
Celebrating 50 years of building pathways to brighter futures
The University of Newcastle's Open Foundation program is celebrating 50 years. That’s 50 years of transforming lives and opening doors to education for all.
Since 1974, Open Foundation has grown to become the largest enabling program of its kind in Australia and is recognised as the industry benchmark.
Gionni
Gionni completed Open Foundation in 1995. Gionni went on to study a Bachelor of Arts (Classics) at the University of Newcastle (2004) and a Graduate Diploma of Info Sciences (Archives and Records) at Edith Cowan University (2008).
Angela
Angela completed Open Foundation in 2023. Angela is currently studying a Bachelor of Pharmacy at the University of Newcastle.
Malalay
Malalay completed Open Foundation in 2022. Malalay is currently studying a Bachelor of Biomedicine at the University of Newcastle.
Isabel
Isabel completed Open Foundation in 2021. Currently studying a Bachelor of Arts (History) at the University of Newcastle.
Patrick
Patrick completed Open Foundation in 2017. Patrick went on to study a Bachelor of Science (Marine Biology) (Hons) at the University of Tasmania (2021).
A legacy of impact
For five decades, Open Foundation has been a beacon of hope and opportunity for people of the Hunter and Central Coast regions. The first pathway program in Australia, Open Foundation has seen tens of thousands of students set out on their educational journeys, helping them to realise their dreams and achieve their goals.
Charlotte's story 1:41
Hear about Open Foundation graduate Charlotte Kilminster's journey to study a Bachelor of Nursing.
Peter's story 1:57
Iglal's story 1:46
A proud part of our community
“The Open Foundation program has not only provided pathways to university but has also become an integral part of the local community. The program is committed to supporting the educational aspirations of individuals in our region, both now and into the future.”
Associate Professor Anna Bennett
Join the celebration
We invite to you to join us as we celebrate 50 years of empowering dreams and changing lives. Together, we can continue to create pathways to education, inspire success, and strengthen our communities.
Winter Ball 2024
A magical Winter is upon us, which makes this the perfect time to present the University of Newcastle’s Winter Ball of 2024! We're inviting all upcoming graduates, current students, as well as alumni to a night of glamour and fun. The evening will also celebrate 50 years of the Open Foundation program building pathways to brighter futures.
Read more
50 Years-50 Stories Exhibition
The 50 Years-50 Stories Exhibition showcases 50 former Open Foundation students and shares their stories about the transformative power of the program.
Read more
50 Years-50 Stories Exhibition Launch and Book Launch
The 50 stories that make up this exhibition, and accompanying commemorative book, capture just some of the transformative experiences our students have experienced through Open Foundation.
Read more
Study with us
If you are looking for a pathway into university, considering a career change or simply chasing your passion, Open Foundation can make it happen.
Find out more
Make a gift
By supporting Open Foundation students, you become part of a legacy of transformation.
Find out more
Join our alumni community
Update your details to stay connected with our 174,000-strong global alumni community.
Find out more
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.