An initiative where learning knows no bounds, Children’s University (CU) has been a trailblazer around the world for the students of the future. Offering educational experiences for children 5 – 14 years and volunteering opportunities for 15 – 18 year-olds, CU helps children to develop resilience, optimism, and confidence for self-directed learning beyond the classroom. Their learning achievements are then recognised through a formal certificate and graduation. Just like University.
We spoke with CU about a program that is pioneering the way young people learn vital skills to flourish today and in the future.
Skills to flourish
CU has been providing support and a wealth of knowledge to children and their families living on Kangaroo Island since 2020. Spread across the three campuses on the Island, 313 students have been through the program, thanks to the initiative facilitated by Kangaroo Island Community Education (KICE). Eliza Shelley, CU Coordinator experienced first-hand the positive outcomes for kids at metropolitan schools in Adelaide which fuelled her desire to bring the program to Kangaroo Island. “The self-esteem building has been great to watch…I thought that Children’s University would be a fantastic opportunity for our Kangaroo Island kids, because of the variety of experiences they can do and recognise as learning.”
Building a community for the future
In true Kangaroo Island community spirit, 21 Kangaroo Island community groups, local businesses, tourist organisations and libraries have rallied to provide a diverse range of experiences on the Island. “They’ve got Learning Destinations all over the Island, which is particularly valuable for our kids who get to go out on their weekends and try different things, but also the visitors, people coming over as tourists can hop on board as well,” she said.
Experience breathtaking landscapes and fascinating wildlife
With an abundance of nature right at their fingertips, the Department for Environment and Water has also jumped on board, facilitating access to 9 National Parks and Wildlife to be used as learning destinations on the Island. This partnership will bring additional learning experiences to those living on Kangaroo Island but will also encourage visitors with families looking to travel to this beautifully unique destination. Parents love the boost to learning CU offers. “My daughter has been a part of Children's University for 3 years and her participation in CU allows her to develop new skills, gain confidence, and broaden her horizon.” - Parent of CU member
You can complete learning hours with SeaLink
SeaLink is proud to be part of the CU program. Our 45-minute ferry ride between Cape Jervis and Penneshaw provides lots of opportunities for learning for budding leaders. All CU participants need to do is ask one of our friendly team for a Children’s University activity sheet in the terminals or on board and get started with their learning. Once complete our team can stamp your activity and you are on your way. CU is also part of our extensive CommunityLink program that facilitates the program for school students on Kangaroo Island.
In February, children from Kangaroo Island will be attending a graduation ceremony at the Kingscote Town Hall to celebrate their amazing learning achievements during 2023! We can’t wait to see what they take part in during 2024.
How can you get involved?
There are two ways to gain learning hours to graduate from Children’s University.
- Passport to Learning (5 – 14 years) – Organisations across South Australia become ‘learning destinations’ where extra-curricular activities and events are created and hours of learning are formed. This is then recorded in a Passport to Learning.
- Passport to Volunteering (15 – 18 years) – Students volunteer to run clubs and activities, assist with events, and become role models for younger students.
CU destinations and activities are being updated all the time! Simply contact them via their website.
