University of Western Australia
Children’s University has welcomed its 50th Learning Destination partner in Western Australia, now providing access to more than 100 physical sites with inspiring learning activities for participating children and families.
The University of Western Australia Children’s University Coordinator Artem Bourov said the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk in Walpole and the City of Armadale were two of the latest destinations to join the program.
A joint initiative between UWA, Edith Cowan University and Children’s University Australasia, the Children’s University Western Australia Partnership was launched in 2020 and has grown to include 27 partner schools and more than 600 children in Albany, the Peel region and Perth.
At UWA, the program operates through both Albany and Crawley campuses, thanks to the generous support of Rio Tinto. Children record activity hours in a ‘Passport to Learning’ before attending a graduation ceremony on campus, wearing caps and gowns just like older university students.
“Partner Learning Destinations are critical to the success of Children’s University, sparking curiosity, a love of learning and important community connections for children aged between seven and 14 and their families,” Mr Bourov said.
“Three-quarters of our Learning Destination sites include free activities, many offer discounts for Children’s University families, and half include STEM activities, ensuring all families have access to valuable learning opportunities.”
In 2021, Children’s University Australasia and Africa (IO) has been recognised as a Winner for Outstanding Achievement in The Australian Charity Awards.
City of Armadale
UWA has joined schools and the City of Armadale to offer the Children’s University to local families, which had traditionally been underrepresented at university, Mr Bourov said.
Members can take part in activities through City of Armadale libraries and museums, the Armadale Fitness and Aquatic Centre, and the City of Armadale Nature Passport (in partnership with Nature Play WA).
“The City is proud to be involved with the Children’s University – a program supporting children with educational and socio-economic disadvantage to enhance their academic achievement and encourage students to aim high,” Armadale Mayor Ruth Butterfield said.
Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk
Tree Top Walk Manager Ryan Smith said it was a privilege to have the Children's University program on offer at the internationally recognised nature-based tourism attraction in WA’s South West.
“The program enriches the experiences offered to families at our site, and draws attention to great initiatives like conservation and appreciation for our natural environment,” Mr Ryan said.
“It was an easy decision to jump on board and I hope to see many other organisations taking part. Collectively we can provide children and their families with a wonderful learning experience.”