Navigate YOU Summit

The James Cook University (JCU) Navigate YOU Summit is a live-in program offering current Year 10 students the chance to experience university life during the school holidays. The educative program structure is an entirely immersive residential program that is fully funded by JCU. It provides students with a distinctive experience of tertiary education to inform their career goals, develop confidence and build capacity for tertiary study. The Navigate YOU Summit aims to provide encouragement to students who has the capability to thrive at university, however, may lack the confidence and career clarity to pursue a tertiary pathway. JCU seeks to break down the barrier students face to tertiary education by:

• Empowering students to engage with learning experiences and subjects in a tertiary context.
• Building strong relationships between JCU, industry partners and diverse student groups.
• Equipping students with the knowledge to select a career path that aligns to their future aspirations.
• Supporting and encouraging students in our region to undertake an ATAR pathway by identifying career identity, develop career confidence, access and capacity to tertiary education.
• Providing students with the tools and support they need to pursue their goals and develop self-efficacy and agency.

Date: Sunday 5^th – Thursday 9th July 2026 (Week two of school holidays).
Location: JCU Townsville, Bebegu Yumba campus, Douglas.
Staying on campus: Accommodation is at the Mercure Hotel, Townsville with catering provided for all participants. Residential participants will be supervised by JCU staff on site.
Cost: -Free: JCU will coordinate and provide all travel, accommodation and meals for students.

Program overview

Over five days, students live on the JCU campus and take part in academic lectures and experiential learning sessions, personal development and team-building activities. The interactive program provides opportunities to meet JCU students and university staff and encourages students to build connections with their peers.

Additional information

• Information guide for schools (PDF, 256 KB)
• Information Guide for Students and Parents (PDF, 354 KB)

Student Application

Students are required to submit their completed application by COB Friday 29 May 2026. Late or incomplete applications may not be accepted, as places are limited.

To be accepted into this program, students must:

• be a current Year 10 student studying at a school within the Whitsunday to Far North Queensland regions’;
• have received sound achievement levels (A and/or B results) in their previous year of study (Year 9 Report);
• have received sound behaviour (A and/or B results) in their previous year of study (Year 9 Report);
• obtain permission from a parent or legal guardian; and
• be available to attend for the full duration of the camp program.

Have Questions?

Not sure if a student qualifies? Need clarification about travel, supervision or selection criteria?

Our outreach team is here to assist students, families and schools.

Contact the Outreach Team