After School Clubs and Children's University

What is Children's University?

Children’s University is a national charitable organisation giving 5 to 14 year olds exciting and innovative learning activities and experiences outside normal school hours. Children’s University’s innovative Passport to Learning encourages children from the age of 5 to try new learning experiences in and outside of school; at after school clubs, at home, in the local library, museum or further afield.
Culminating in an inspirational graduation ceremony, this adventure encourages children to see the joy of learning, giving a sense of wonder in the world around them and develops their confidence and aspirations for the brightest futures. Raising children's aspirations is important to us and we aim to develop the understanding that learning can be the satellite navigation to better places in life!

What does our Chancellor say?

“I am proud and privileged to play a role in Sefton's Children's University. I have very fond memories of working in Sefton and experiencing, at first hand, the high quality education it provides for its young people. The measure of the esteem that schools have for the concept of a children's  university is evident in the desire of head teachers to continue to support it. It has, as much as any other organisation, helped schools to improve attainment, raise aspiration and create a love of lifelong learning. Long may it continue!” - Sir John Jones

How does it work?

Once registered through school, young people can gain credits by participating in extra-curricular school led activities; learning at one of our verified “Public Learning Destinations”; attending structured activity sessions at local libraries, museums, farms, leisure centres or more across the UK; and by taking part in our set holiday challenges. Usually, every time a student takes part in one hour of voluntary learning they will gain one credit towards Children’s University. These credits will be recorded in their Passport to Learning. If students gain enough credits by the end of Year 2 or Year 6 they will be invited to graduate at our very special Graduation Ceremony at Edge Hill University.

What are learning destinations?

Learning Destinations are verified learning providers who provide voluntary, structured learning outside of school hours. All Learning Destination will have our logo displayed and are featured at www.childrensuniversity.co.uk. Local Learning Destinations include Sefton Library Service, Active
Sefton, Farmer Ted’s Park, WWT Martin Mere, Liverpool Museums, The Atkinson Centre, Pets at Home, plus a variety of individual local activities and clubs.

What are the benefits?

Children's University supports schools in providing their Personal Development requirements as per The Education Inspection Framework and Ofsted. We can also support schools Pupil Premium Agenda, School Improvement Plans, PE and Sports Premium requirements, and Careers Strategy and enrichment provision. Children who participate benefit from raised aspirations, increased confidence and self-esteem, and positive character development. Through our graduations, students and their families benefit from increased knowledge of and exposure to Higher Education opportunities and pathways, promoting social mobility.

After school clubs for this term

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