Sheffield pupils celebrate graduating from Children's University

Nearly 37,000 children and young people across Sheffield have clocked up more than two million hours of learning in their own time, as part of the Sheffield Children's University initiative.
Deputy Lord Mayor Anne Murphy, Helen Oades from Sheffield CU, Katie Hamshaw from Sheffield CU, pupil Georgia Taylor, Sam Wild, headteacher at Southey Green and Councillor Jackie DraytonDeputy Lord Mayor Anne Murphy, Helen Oades from Sheffield CU, Katie Hamshaw from Sheffield CU, pupil Georgia Taylor, Sam Wild, headteacher at Southey Green and Councillor Jackie Drayton
Deputy Lord Mayor Anne Murphy, Helen Oades from Sheffield CU, Katie Hamshaw from Sheffield CU, pupil Georgia Taylor, Sam Wild, headteacher at Southey Green and Councillor Jackie Drayton

Nearly 37,000 children and young people across Sheffield have clocked up more than two million hours of learning in their own time, as part of the Sheffield Children’s University initiative.

The programme which started in 2007, is now the biggest Children’s University scheme in the country which encourages youngsters to take part in a wide range of learning opportunities outside of school hours.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

A special event was held on Thursday to celebrate the two millionth hour. Two hundred primary school children attended and graduated with gold awards for taking part in more than 100 hours of Children’s University activities. Activities include dance, sport music clubs and ICT projects.

A special certificate was presented to Georgia Taylor, aged 10, from Southey Green Primary School & Nurseries who clocked up over 500 hours on the scheme.

Wendy Taylor, Georgia’s mum said: “I think Children’s University is brilliant! The children benefit in so many ways from the activities available in school and out. I am really grateful to Southey Green School for helping us to get involved. The Awards Ceremony is a great way for the children to see just how much they do out of school and it gives them a lovely sense of achievement.”

Coun Jackie Drayton, Sheffield Council’s cabinet member for children, young people and families said: “Congratulations to all the children, schools and providers who have taken part in the Children’s University activities. Two million hours is a great achievement, which everyone should be proud of.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“The Sheffield Children’s University is a really inspiring initiative and there’s sure to be something to interest all children in a range of activities, whether they like arts and crafts, outdoor activities, sports or learning new skills. I would encourage all children to give an activity a go. You can earn points and even get a degree in fun”