Get Involved | Central Coast (Term 4, 2026)
Central Coast Challenge. Ten years of impact.
The illuminate Challenge on the Central Coast marks its tenth anniversary in November 2026 — for the first time at the University of Newcastle’s brand new Gosford Campus.
Presented by the University of Newcastle’s Central Coast Campus
About the program
The illuminate Challenge on the Central Coast.
The Central Coast illuminate Challenge began in 2016 in partnership with the University of Newcastle’s Ourimbah Campus. For ten years it has brought together Year 9 and 10 students from public high schools across the region – tackling real community challenges, working alongside university mentors and industry leaders, and pitching their ideas to a panel that is genuinely there to listen.
In 2026, the program marks its tenth anniversary with a new home. The University of Newcastle’s Gosford Campus – brand new in 2026 – gives the program a purpose-built university environment that connects students to higher education in a way that goes well beyond a campus tour. Students spend the week working in lecture theatres, tutorial rooms and collaborative spaces that make the experience of belonging on a university campus feel real before any enrolment decision has been made.
The themes for 2026 are shaped in conjunction with local stakeholders including Regional Development Australia Central Coast – covering issues like youth retention, educational support, sustainable tourism and the local food industry, and we can’t wait to share with you the 2026 theme!
Important Details
When: November 2026, with exact dates TBC
Where: Gosford Campus of the University of Newcastle
Year levels: Years 9 and 10
Presented with: The University of Newcastle’s Central Coast Campus.
Open to: All schools within the Central Coast Principals Network of Schools.
Cost: Free to participate – but space is limited.