"What is a Children's University?"

A Children’s University gives children aged between 5-14 years’ old an opportunity to enrich their learning experiences via accredited activities such as after-school clubs, museum visits, lectures and language clubs. By collecting stamps in a passport, children can graduate as Children’s University undergraduates, or even as Masters or PhD students – complete with cap and gown at a special ceremony.

 

"Are you the only Children's University?"

The Lincolnshire Children’s University is a local branch of the Children’s University Trust which already has more than 110 local branches in the UK (and several overseas!).

 

"Where are you based?"

Although the Lincolnshire Children's University doesn't have its own dedicated building, we do run our LCU from the University of Lincoln and are connected with Learning Destinations all around the county.

 

"What are the benefits?"

Research by the University of Cambridge's Professor John Macbeath has shown that the Children's University simultaneously benefits learners, schools, families and the community. Children often achieve better in school as a result of motivation from something they succeed at beyond school, making learning a reality beyond academic studies. Children's University can improve attitudes to learning and attendance, and pupils and teachers testify to life changing experiences. Children's University can provide a vehicle for families to learn together, creating confident, self-driven and collegial learning.

Children's University can help to connect what is inside them with what they do in school and what they experience beyond school. It also provides a safe haven for children, and models positive relationships!

 

"Hi there, I am a headteacher. How do I get my school on board?"

Thank you for wanting to get involved! We suggest that you begin by validating some of your after school clubs by completeing one of our validation forms, and contact us to purchase passports and pay a membership fee. Once you have passports to sell and have become a member, you will receive stamps to stamp children's passports, as well as a Learning Destination sticker. Once your pupils do at least 30hrs of learning outside of school hours, they will be eligable to attend one of our graduation ceremonies to celebrate their success!

 

"How much does a Passport to Learning cost?"

A Passport to Learning usually costs £5. 

 

"My child is homeschooled. Can they be involved?"

Of course! If your child is not enrolled in a school that is connected to the Lincolnshire Children's University, they may still purchase a passport from one of our virtual schools.

 

"I run local after-school clubs for children. Can I become a Learning Destination?"

Absolutely! As long as you complete one of our validation forms to a good standard, your activities may be accredited and you can become a Learning Destination. It is important to us that you have a DBS check, and that the clubs have clear learning outcomes for the children and meet our criteria. 

 

 

 

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