CUC Cape York is set to open next month!

Jenni James, the manager of the Cape York Country Universities Centre, recently spoke about the forthcoming opening of the centre in Cooktown. The centre is set to open its doors next month and will be the first dedicated study support centre in the region. This is an exciting development for the local community, as it will provide a space for students to study, learn, and connect with peers.

As a longtime Helenvale local, Ms James is particularly excited about the centre’s potential to bridge the gap between remote and urban education. The centre will offer dedicated study and learning spaces for students, as well as access to the internet, resources, and support to complete exams. With a focus on providing equity for students, no matter where they are from or where they choose to study, Ms James hopes to see students across the Cape getting the same level of support as those in the city.

In addition to support for university and TAFE students, the centre is creating three new jobs. Along with the full-time centre manager, there will be an Indigenous engagement officer and a part-time learning skills advisor. These positions will help ensure that the centre is accessible and supportive for all students in the region.

Funded until 2025 under the federal government’s Regional University Centres program, the Cape York Country Universities Centre is governed by an independent board comprised of Cook Shire Council, university, and TAFE members. The centre is located at 100 Charlotte Street and includes three private study rooms, a reception area, a manager’s office, a kitchen and bathroom, a training room, and an open shared space. The study rooms can also be used by students completing exams.

Ms James is committed to providing a wide range of services to students, including guidance on what and where to study, help with enrolments, advice on different courses, and academic skills support. The centre will be open from 8.30am to 5pm weekdays, but once students enrol, they will be able to access the centre from 5am to midnight seven days a week. Ms James is also exploring the possibility of expanding the centre’s services to include satellite branches in other Cape York towns.

The Cape York Country Universities Centre is a significant step forward for the region and will provide students with valuable support and resources to help them achieve their academic goals. For more information about the centre, interested parties can contact Ms James via email or phone at jenni.james@cuccapeyork.edu.au or phone 0499 202 249.