CHILDREN from schools across Worcestershire took part in a special graduation ceremony at the University of Worcester as they earned Gold, Silver and Bronze awards from Children’s University.

Children’s University encourages learning outside of the classroom with a host of extra-curricular activities both in schools and at home.

Children are issued with a Learning Passport, which they can get stamped for each activity they complete, which also includes visits to a wide variety of Learning Destinations across the country.

Worcestershire Children’s University, which operates from the University of Worcester, is part of the Central Children’s University Trust, and earlier this month a special graduation ceremony took place for all those children who had achieved Bronze, Silver and Gold awards through the scheme.

Among them were children from St Barnabas First Middle School, Pershore, Stanley Road Primary School, Worcester, Himbleton First School, Droitwich, and St Nicholas Middle School, Pinvin.

Annabel Collins, Worcestershire Children’s University Manager, said: “This year we have had a record 115 children, from schools across the County, complete Bronze, Silver and Gold awards and we were delighted to reward them with a special graduation ceremony.

“The children really enjoyed wearing their cap and gowns and taking the chance to celebrate their amazing achievements in front of parents, teachers and members of the University of Worcester and Children’s University community.”

Awards are given at set numbers of hours achieved of extra-curricular learning, starting with a Bronze Award presented at 30 hours through to the top award of Gold Fellowship, conferred after achieving 1,000 hours.

The awards were presented by Helen O’Donnell, Chief Executive of National Children’s University, who made the trip to Worcester especially.

Carolyn Lloyd, Central Children’s University Strategic Manager, said: “The number of children now involved across the increasing number of First & Middle schools across the county demonstrates the efforts of the team at Worcestershire Children's University. The ongoing support from the University of Worcester is highly valued and the partnership will ensure more local children fulfil their potential. We look forward to seeing even more children and young people having access to extra-curricular learning in 2017.”