More than 1,100 children from 48 schools across the region donned their cap and gowns as they graduated from the University of Newcastle’s Children’s University (CU) program last week, marking 10 years of the initiative.
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 said 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,” Alex 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 University of Newcastle is hosting six graduation ceremonies from 24 November to 4 December at our Newcastle and Central Coast campuses.
IMAGE | Young students are graduating from University of Newcastle’s Children University program.
