Anglia Ruskin University will welcome a particularly young group of students to its Guild House campus in Peterborough on Saturday, 12 January when local youngsters, aged 7-14, will take part in activities linked to a range of NHS professions.
The event is part of the Children’s University (www.childrensuniversity.co.uk), a national project to provide exciting and innovative learning activities and experiences outside of normal school hours.
At the heart of its work is the ambition to raise aspirations, boost achievement and foster a love of learning, so that young people can make the most of their abilities and interests. Although open to all, the Children’s University particularly aims to reach children facing socio-economic and educational disadvantages.
The students’ achievements are celebrated through certificates, received for completing 30, 65 and 100 hours of participation in validated activities, which are presented at special graduation ceremonies.
The free event on 12 January will see Anglia Ruskin, University Centre Peterborough and Peterborough Regional College join forces to provide a series of interactive workshops. Academic staff and nursing students will help the younger children take part in fun activities such as bandaging their parents and practicing resuscitation, while older children will learn more about the NHS, how the different healthcare professions work together, and the range of careers on offer.
Peterborough Learning Partnership is leading the development of the Children’s University in the city, with the support of Anglia Ruskin. Peterborough Learning Partnership manager, Iain Simper, said “The aim of the Peterborough Children’s University is to encourage learners to take part in a wide range of worthwhile out-of-school-hours learning.
“Research by the University of Cambridge indicates that keeping a record and celebrating participation in these activities through the Children’s University has a big impact on success at school.
“The Peterborough Children’s University will continue to grow over the coming months and we look forward to celebrating graduations in due course.”
The 12 January event will be split into two sessions with the first (10am-11.30am) for 7 to 10-year-olds and the second (11.30am-1pm) for 11 to 14-year-olds. Parents/guardians are welcome to attend the sessions with their children, but places are limited. For more information or to book a place, please email jonathan.secker@anglia.ac.uk