Territory kids get sneak peek at Uni

More than 90 youngsters found fun in learning about Aboriginal culture, geology, singing, aquaculture and nursing at the Children's University Charles Darwin (CUCD) Community Day.

Students from Ludmilla, Millner, Manunda Terrace, Jingili and Larrakeyah primary schools are taking part in the Charles Darwin University-based program this year.

Children's University Charles Darwin Program Coordinator Virginia Spicer-Harden said the program has grown since its trial last year.

"Jingili, Millner and Larrakeyah primary schools are new participants," she said. “Also, the Darwin Surf Life Saving Club, The Burning Circus and Tracks Dance Company are among the new Learning Destinations."

Ms Spicer-Harden said CUCD were keen to hear from other schools and Learning Destinations interested in the program.

“It’s all about encouraging children to get out and about, have fun and learn new things in their spare time," she said.

Ms Spicer-Harden said too many children nowadays were glued to mobile phones, game consoles and TVs in their spare time. 

“Studies have shown that Children’s University has a positive impact on school attendance and retention, with many students pursuing higher education,” she said.

Pro Vice-Chancellor Student Engagement and Success Professor Philip Seltsikas said the program, free for 2019, was a partnership with schools and presently 24 Learning Destinations.

“Our Children’s University exemplifies CDU’s commitment to developing young minds and stimulating our community’s passion for education,” Professor Seltsikas said.

Owned globally by the Children’s University Trust, the Children’s University was established in the United Kingdom in the early 1990s. Now known as Children’s University Australasia, the Children’s University Australia was launched in 2013.

Primary school students aged from seven to 14 must register 30 hours of learning outside of school hours at participating Learning Destinations to graduate. There are 65 Territory alumni from the Children's University Charles Darwin program.

Local primary schools and organisations interested in taking part are encouraged to apply. For more information W: cdu.edu.au/childrens-university or E: childrensuniversity@cdu.edu.au