Dorset's youngsters uni bound

Children as young as seven might be donning a cap and gown next year, if they graduate from Dorset's first Children's University.

The Children's University is a national trust, funded from government endorsed charities, and Jae Harris, who is managing the new university, has brought it to Christchurch.

"The university aims to show children that learning is not just confined to the school day. It can occur anywhere and anytime", Mr Harris said.

The CU is aimed to engage seven to fourteen year olds in out of school activities. The sessions will take place in various sports centres, after school clubs or museums which will be classed as official CU learning destinations.

The children will acquire rewards for their efforts. After 30 hours of participation, they receive a bronze level, after 65 hours a silver level, and after 100 hours a gold level award. Each child will be rewarded with a certificate and will be able to graduate in their cap and gowns.

Mr Harris added: "Research shows that children learn 15% of their knowledge in school, whilst the remaining 85% is learned outside of school. Hopefully the university will draw young people away from engaging in anti social or disruptive behaviour, and will increase their aspirations for the future."

The CU aim to support those children who are not especially academic, or do not engage with school very well.

This different approach to learning lets children decide what and how they want to learn, and has been praised by Christchurch Borough Council. Cllr Mike Turvey said: "This is an exciting and innovative way of building a better future for the young people of Christchurch and eventually Dorset. It is about raising the aspirations of the young people along with their families and their schools." Mr Turvey has been appointed chancellor of the CU.

The Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr David Flagg, said: "I think this is an excellent opportunity for youngsters to learn extra-curricular activities which will give them a greater foundation of common-sense knowledge and experience."

The CU has been granted £29, 000 to set up the organisation, and is hoping to attract around 700 children in the initiative.

It will be launched on Saturday with running a quiz trail around Christchurch, with the opportunity of winning a Nintendo Wii.