Bundaberg agreement to fast-track youth study options
Published on 11 December, 2009
St Luke's Anglican School and CQUniversity this week (Dec 10) signed an MOU to fast-track youth study options.
For the past year, Senior School students at St Luke's Anglican School in Bundaberg have been undertaking university studies through CQUniversity as part of the SUN (Start Uni Now) program.
These students have been involved in courses including Introduction to Aviation, Law and Welfare, Creative Industries and Introduction to Forensics and Functional Biology.
The popularity of studies in Aviation courses enabled Ron Bishop, Senior Lecturer in Aviation Technology, to hold lectures on the school's campus.
The high level of interest in university level studies by St Luke's Anglican School students has led to the creation of a Memorandum of Understanding.
This MOU will closely link the 2 educational providers in supporting Senior School students to undertake tertiary studies, while still completing Senior Secondary education.
Gaining access to this level of education earlier enables Senior students to benefit both financially and by reducing the course timeframe; thereby enabling most students to enter the workforce sooner than their peers.
Where possible, some courses will be offered on the St Luke's campus after normal school hours.
St Luke's Principal Martin Oates is more than happy with the extension of the existing ties between the School and the University.
"The MOU will give our young people a valuable opportunity to test themselves at university studies, while giving them a true look at Uni life before they leave school," Mr Oates said.
"Courses passed go directly towards the associated degree, shortening the time spent at Uni once they leave school. It also acts as a ‘try before you buy' which certainly suits the ‘Y' and ‘Z' generations of young people we deal with today".
CQUniversity Bundaberg Head Professor Phillip Clift agreed with Mr Oates and applauded the formalisation of the partnership as a major initiative for both organizations.
"This development enhances opportunities for secondary school students as well as promoting CQUniversity as great destination for school leavers who wish to pursue tertiary education studies".