In Term 2 we are planning to introduce Children's University to help develop free-thinking and inquisitive children who enjoy leanring and have a "can do" attitude towards future opportunities.  We will be embracing this for students in Years 3-6.  However, students already participating, and those with younger siblings who have also been exposed to the program can participate at this time.  In the longer term we plan to incorporate the junior primary students as part of the program across the school. 

Children's University is an innovative program hosted by the University of Adelaide which aims to increase the liklihood of educational achievement and reward children for taking their learning into their own hands.

Children's University is child-directed, meaning each individual voluntarily chooses how to be involved and what they would like to participate in.  Children are encouraged to explore and discover new ideas, concepts and experiences via Public and restricted Learning Destinations.

Learning Destinations can be local educational and learning activity providers such as sports clubs, museums, galleriers and school clubs.  All activities are practical and fun-based, but they must have alink some some way to higher learning. Learning destinations must be registered.

Each participating student is issued with a Passport to Learning where the hours of each activity are recorded. These hours are accoumulated and when the hours needed to graduate are reached, children are awareded with certificates at a formal graduation ceremony.

Children's University believes that celebrations of achievement plays a key part in raising the aspirations of all children and provide a great opportunity for family and friends to share this experience at the graduation ceremony. (Subject to COVID restrictions at the time).

Why is Pimpala Primary School planning to implement Children's University for our students?

We can see many benefits for our students to become involved in this so we are keen to provide this opportunity.  We believe that for children to develop resilience, optimism and confidence, the opportunity for self directed learning beyond the classroom is key.  Children's University fosters wellbeing by promoting "free range learning", encouraging children to try out new activities, discover new passions, visit new places and, most importantly, to have fun!

More information will be provided in the next newsletter.