Passport to learning

Believe Housing Australia’s youngest tenants are unlocking a passion for learning and exploring the world around them, thanks to a partnership with the Children’s University (CU) program.

The CU program, which is free for Believe Housing Australia tenants, recognises that learning happens everywhere – not just in the school classroom.

The program partners with schools, local organisations, and community centres to offer activities that encourage children aged between 5 and 14 to explore their interests, accumulate hours of learning, and earn stamps in their “Passport to Learning”.

After achieving a minimum of 30 hours of learning, participants graduate in a formal ceremony complete with caps and gowns.

Twenty tenants were enrolled in the program in 2024, with many signing up again in 2025.

Rachel’s experience

Rachel enrolled her seven-year-old daughter Sienna in the program last year with the support of Believe Housing Australia and said she’s grateful for the experience.

“We wouldn’t have heard of the program if it wasn’t for Believe Housing Australia,” Rachel said.

“I grew up just learning from a textbook, but this is more. There’s a mixture of learning, research or hands-on.”

Believe Housing Australia supports participants by organising occasional group trips to learning destinations or providing materials to help undertake activities like arts and crafts.

Participants also have access to an online portal, where they can learn about different topics such as plants, animals, and science.

Rachel said she’s been bonding and learning alongside her daughter as they venture to new destinations or do tasks together.

“It was something away from work and school that we could connect on,” she said.

“The world has changed a lot compared to when I was Sienna’s age. “Learning alongside her will mean I’ll be better able to help her as she grows up.”

Sienna’s favourite activity?

Learning about robots at the Tonsley TAFE campus.

“She loved looking at the robots and seeing how they were built and how they work,” Rachel said.

Rachel said the growth in Sienna this past year since she has been enrolled in the program, not just academically but also socially, has been incredible.

“I’ve noticed a big change in her this past year,” Rachel said.

“She’s more confident around people and is more involved in activities.

“Seeing Sienna graduate in her cap and gown and collect a certificate was amazing to watch as a parent. I felt very proud.”

For more information

Believe Housing Australia currently offers the Children’s University program to tenants in metro Adelaide and Berri, and is now taking expressions of interest for 2025.

To register your child, please contact the Tenant Voice team at tenantvoice@believehousing.org.au or 1800 688 000.

For more information about Children’s University, please click here.