Over 550 students don caps and gowns to graduate from Children’s University Swinburne

Over 550 students from 34 schools have graduated from Children’s University Swinburne, celebrating over 45,000 hours of learning beyond the classroom this year.

What started in November 2021 with a pilot school has grown to nearly 900 students from 34 schools participating in the program from the North, East and South-East of Melbourne, with a particular focus on schools in disadvantaged areas.

“This graduation is a huge milestone for the primary and secondary students attending,” says Associate Director of Swinburne’s School Engagement, Vera Gin. “They are celebrating independent, self-driven learning and community engagement – and a big step towards realising a vision of their future selves.”

“These students, ranging from Year 3 to Year 11, explored new activities, discovered passions, visited diverse learning destinations and developed their skills in communication, leadership and networking across Victoria.

“As the only university in Victoria offering the Children's University program, we’re incredibly proud of the way we’re able to reach so many students and introduce them to the world of higher education and TAFE from a young age, showing that it can be a reality.”

Gawhar was chosen to do the coin toss at the final Richmond AFLW game of 2025.

Inaugural Victorian Gold Fellowship Award recipient beats records

This year, Swinburne celebrated Gawhar Khan, a grade five student from Kilberry Valley Primary School, who became the first Victorian student to be awarded the prestigious Gold Fellowship Award.

Having only been in the program since last year, she finished the program with a record 1242 hours of work, gaining 26 certificates and the Gold Fellowship, in addition to her graduation certificate.  

In honour of Gawhar’s efforts, she was chosen to do the coin toss at the final Richmond AFLW game of 2025.

“The program helped me believe that learning can happen anywhere, at any time, and that I am capable of achieving big goals if I stay committed,” Gawhar says.

“Some of my favourite moments were completing my activities at home and at school, exploring new ideas, and seeing my passport fill up. I learnt how to stay focused, take responsibility for my own learning, and stay consistent even when things were challenging.

“Being part of Children’s University has also made me more curious about the world around me. I’ve discovered new hobbies, ideas and skills that I never knew I had, and it has encouraged me to keep asking questions and looking for answers. I feel more confident in trying new things, and I know that the skills and experiences I’ve gained will help me in school, future projects, and life in general. I am grateful for this journey, and I can’t wait to continue learning, exploring and challenging myself in the years ahead.

“Graduating this year makes me feel really proud and happy. Children’s University has helped me grow, believe in myself and feel excited for the future.”

Khisro Khan, Gawhar’s father, is incredibly proud of his daughter.

“This remarkable accomplishment reflects her exceptional dedication, curiosity and commitment to learning beyond the classroom,” he says.

“From the beginning, she embraced every opportunity with a sense of excitement and purpose, setting a powerful example for others. Her consistency, motivation and love of learning were evident in every step she took.

“Achieving the Fellowship is not only a recognition of her hard work, but also a testament to her leadership, resilience and passion for exploring new knowledge. Becoming the first Victorian student to reach this level is an accomplishment that fills our family with immense pride. It speaks to her strong character, her willingness to push herself and her ability to embrace challenges with confidence.  

“Swinburne Children’s University has helped her grow into a thoughtful, driven and independent young learner, and this achievement marks the beginning of even more exciting possibilities ahead.”