Partners and impact

Growing curiosity through strong university partnerships

Children’s University (CU) works in partnership with universities to inspire children and young people to explore learning beyond the classroom. Since its beginnings in the United Kingdom, the program has grown into a global network that recognises and celebrates learning wherever it happens.

Across Australia and New Zealand, university partners play a vital role in delivering the CU program within their regions. By working with schools, community organisations and Learning Destinations, universities help students discover new interests, develop confidence, and experience the excitement of higher education environments.

These partnerships strengthen connections between universities and their communities while supporting young learners to see education as an exciting and achievable pathway. Through collaboration, research and shared impact reporting, the CU network continues to grow, helping more students experience the joy of learning and celebrating their achievements through formal graduation ceremonies.

Our University Partners

Children’s University (CU) is delivered through a network of university partners across Australia and New Zealand committed to expanding opportunities for children and young people. Each partner university works with schools and community organisations in their region to provide Learning Destinations, support Passport to Learning activities, and celebrate student success.

These partnerships allow universities to strengthen community engagement, inspire future learners, and support educational equity by providing access to enriching experiences beyond the classroom. By connecting with students early in their learning journey, universities can help build confidence, curiosity, and aspiration toward further education.

Partnering with CU also supports universities’ social impact and widening participation goals, helping institutions engage with communities that may not traditionally see higher education as part of their future. Through these partnerships, universities contribute to long-term educational outcomes while strengthening their role as accessible, community-focused institutions that champion lifelong learning.

Our Impact

Children’s University (CU) is committed to continuous improvement and understanding the real impact of learning beyond the classroom. Over time, a range of independent and internal evaluations have helped shape how the program is delivered and how learning experiences for children and young people continue to evolve.

CU programs are supported by independent research and ongoing evaluation that measure outcomes for participating students and schools. Studies, including research conducted by The University of Cambridge, National Centre for Vocational and Education Research and Australian Council for Educational Research. Collectively, this body of research provides strong evidence that CU has a sustained and positive impact on students’ engagement with learning. Ongoing evaluation across the CU network ensures the program remains responsive, evidence‑informed, and focused on delivering meaningful outcomes for students, schools, and communities.

Become a Partner

Universities play a key role in growing the Children’s University (CU) movement across Australia and New Zealand. By becoming a partner, universities can build meaningful community connections, support schools and families, and contribute to research that demonstrates the impact of learning beyond the classroom.

Partner universities gain access to a global network, program resources, evaluation frameworks, and the opportunity to help shape the future of CU in Australasia. Together, we can expand opportunities for young learners and inspire the next generation of curious thinkers.

Contact us to learn about becoming a partner university.