SeaLink South Australia is proud to continue its long-standing partnership with Children's University Adelaide (CU) led by the University of Adelaide, renewing its sponsorship agreement through to the end of 2026. Since 2020, the partnership has supported young South Australians, particularly those living on Kangaroo Island, the opportunity to explore, learn, and grow through engaging activities.

As part of the renewed agreement, SeaLink remains a featured “Learning Destination” in the CU Passport program. Students travelling to and from Kangaroo Island can complete activities in a bespoke ferry booklet that encourages them to discover the marine environment, ferry operations, places of interest on Kangaroo Island, and local wildlife.

“We're proud to continue our support of Children's University and the amazing opportunities it offers students on Kangaroo Island and across the state,” said Tracy Croft, General Manager, SeaLink South Australia. “It's a great way to connect young people with education”.

SeaLink also recently supported a CU student design competition, which invited CU participants from across the state to help create new content for the Kangaroo Island ferry activity booklet. From 58 creative entries, SeaLink selected three winning activities, a Kangaroo Island, find-a-word puzzle, and an activity to identify jobs on the ferry, will feature in the updated activity booklet soon to be available at the ferry terminals. This initiative highlights the creativity of young learners and the power of engaging young students by making educational experiences fun and relatable.

“Congratulations to the three talented winners. It's fantastic to see students help shape their own learning experience,” Ms Croft said.

Children's University is an international program for students aged 5 to 18, with a strong focus on regional, remote, low-socioeconomic, and Indigenous communities. The program encourages learning beyond the classroom by encouraging students to visit registered 'Learning Destinations', from businesses on Kangaroo Island to museums, and marine tours, where students complete educational activities and track their progress in a learning Passport. This hands-on approach builds curiosity, creativity and confidence, particularly for children who may have fewer learning opportunities outside of school. Students are recognised and celebrated for their efforts at graduation ceremonies held at partnering universities, helping to build pride, aspiration and a sense of achievement from an early age.

Kiri Hagenus, Managing Director Children's University added: “SeaLink has been a long-standing and valued partner of Children's University, helping us reach young learners in some of South Australia's most unique and remote communities. Their ongoing support, particularly across Kangaroo Island, plays a vital role in opening up new horizons for children, making learning tangible, accessible, and exciting. We're proud to continue our partnership, creating enriching educational experiences that inspire curiosity and a love of learning well beyond the classroom.”

In South Australia alone, over 5,600 children aged 5–18 across 205 schools and more than 400 learning destinations take part in the program. There are 31 active CU members across Kangaroo Island Community Education campuses alone.

“SeaLink is thrilled to continue our partnership, helping to play a part in inspiring the next generation of curious minds and future leaders to build the confidence, and skills they need to succeed in school, work, and life,” Ms Croft concluded.

Learn more about Children's University: https://cuaustralasia.com/ 

To book an experience to Kangaroo Island, visit SeaLink Kangaroo Island.