Children’s University Newcastle marks 10 years with 1,100 young graduates

newy.com.au – More than 1,100 children from 48 schools across the region will graduate from the University of Newcastle’s Children’s University Newcastle program at ceremonies on campus this week as the initiative marks its 10th anniversary.

Over its first decade, Children’s University 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.

Participating children, aged between seven and 14, build their own learning program by taking part in extracurricular activities in their local and regional communities and on campus, recording each hour in a Children’s University passport.

Those who reach 30 hours of learning are invited to don caps and gowns for a formal graduation ceremony that recognises their commitment, and the support of their families and schools, while giving them early exposure to life on a university campus.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky AO said the program encouraged students to try new experiences, helping them develop a lifelong love of learning and broadening their sense of what was possible after school.

“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.

He said the impact was already clear, with almost three quarters of current University of Newcastle students who had taken part in the program reporting that it significantly influenced their decision to go to university, particularly for those 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,” he said.

The program has a strong focus on equity, diversity and inclusion, with a growing cohort of students from low socio-economic and culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

In 2025, 22% of students involved in Children’s University Newcastle identified as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, and 72% of those students are graduating this year.

By allowing children to choose their own learning experiences and take part in activities outside the classroom, the program aims to deepen their engagement with their local communities while helping them feel comfortable on campus.

Earlier this year, 1,400 children and family members attended more than 344 workshops during six On-Campus Discovery Days at the University’s Newcastle and Central Coast campuses.

For Bachelor of Education (Primary) student Asenaca Leweniqila, who joined Children’s University Newcastle while at primary school, the experience was a catalyst for her decision to study at the University and to take charge of her own learning.

“Children’s University planted a love of learning early on and made the idea of university more exciting than intimidating,” Ms Leweniqila said. “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.”

“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,” she said. “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 Children’s University graduation ceremonies between 24 November and 4 December at its Newcastle and Central Coast campuses, with this year’s events marking a decade of the program in the region.

More information about Children’s University Newcastle, including how to get involved, is available on the University’s website.