1200 Hunter primary schoolers graduate from university program
Over 1200 primary students from 53 schools finished the University of Newcastle's Children's University program this week.
Children as young as 11 walked across the stage in cap and gown at the University of Newcastle's Great Hall to celebrate finishing the Children's University program. Students aged 7 to 14 take workshops, research tasks and campus tours over three school terms.
Students reaching 30 hours of learning graduate formally. The 1200 graduating students came from 53 primary schools across the Central Coast, Lake Macquarie, Kurri Kurri, Cessnock, Singleton, Newcastle, Port Stephens, Mid-Coast and the Far West.
The program is in its 11th year. More than 10,000 students have taken part so far.
Three schools this year worked with overseas partner schools to learn about water sustainability. One partnership was with a centre in Nigeria.
Students said the experience helped them think about university study and careers. A year 6 student from Wiripaang Public School now dreams of becoming a marine biologist.
- 1200
- Students graduating this week
- 53
- Schools represented
- 11 years
- Program duration
- 10,000
- Total participants since inception
Why it mattersWhen young students visit university and do real research, they feel more confident. They start to see higher education as something they can reach.
AustraliaOver 53 Hunter region schools now have alumni in a program that builds local pathways to university and careers, with international partnerships raising awareness of global challenges like water access.
