“The University of fun”Sunday Times

What is Children’s University?

• Fun, extra-curricular learning for 5 – 14 year olds

• Open to all irrespective of background – financial resources are heavily targeted towards children from the most disadvantaged families and communities;

• Delivered at a local level by local partners - Worcestershire Children’s University is a local partner of the National Children’s University and a member of the Central Children’s University Trust.

• Higher Education as a concept is embedded in all activity and the way achievements are recognised.

• 5 pilot schools in Worcestershire

How does it work?• Passport to Learning and / or e-passport

• Restricted learning destinations – in school

• Learning destinations – external provider (eg museum, gallery, football club, library, countryside centre)

• Credits / stamps build to different levels of achievement. 1 hour of validated activity = 1 credit.

• In 2012-13 Shrigley Children’s University recorded over 1000 children participating in 2500 hours of extra-curricular learning.

• Achievement is celebrated through graduation ceremonies.

Middlesborough Children’s University

What difference does it make?

Alice’s Story

Independent evaluation every 2 years (Prof J. MacBeath, University of Cambridge) has confirmed that participation in Children’s University significantly improves:

• School attendance

• Increases levels of attainment across all subject areas;

• Builds confidence

• Embeds / nurtures critical life skills like team work, effective communication, resilience and initiative.

• Motivating & rewarding

2012 Evaluation: www.childrensuniversity.co.uk/media/262751/cu_evaluation_2012-13_full.pdf

And finally…