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More than 20 years after what she describes as a lacklustre performance in her year 12 exams, Kyra Havernhoek's second chance at a university education has seen her top the class at The University of Western Australia, scoring 100 per cent in a first-year calculus unit.

"I knew I had done well but not 100 per cent," said the Duncraig mother-of-two. "I just love maths, which most people think is crazy."

The late-blooming maths whiz is just one of 34 students to complete the first semester of UWA's Mature-age Access Program (UWA-MAP) trial, allowing people with little or no previous background in tertiary study the opportunity to enrol at the State's leading university.

"I was also lucky that I had a great maths lecturer, Wally Andrioni, who played a big part in my success," Ms Havernhoek said.

Another mature-age success was Nathan Kamman, 28, of Mt Hawthorn, who didn't study TEE in Year 12, but completed four units in second semester of the Bachelor of Science, achieving two distinctions and two credits.

"At first it was daunting being with younger students who are used to studying but the lecturers and support staff wanted you to do well," he said.

MAP students recorded an overall pass rate of 85 per cent of units attempted with distinctions achieved in 30 per cent and high distinctions in 15 per cent of MAP enrolments. UWA Executive Director (Academic Services) and Registrar Peter Curtis said the trial results exceeded expectations.

"Given that none of the students would have been successful in gaining admission to UWA without this scheme, their achievements are nothing short of outstanding," Mr Curtis said.

"The introduction of the Mature-age Access Program marks an important development in the University's commitment to making UWA more accessible to a more diverse student body. Using introductory-level university study itself as a possible entry pathway for mature-age students positions the University as a leader in innovative approaches which provide wider access, while ensuring the continuing high quality of a UWA education."

Media references

Professor Jane Long , Pro Vice Chancellor (Teaching and Learning) (+61 8) 6488 2077
Wayne Betts (UWA Admissions) (+61 8) 6488 2649
Simone Hewett (UWA Public Affairs) (+61 8) 6488 7977 / (+61 4) 20 790 097