Doncaster Children’s University is an exciting way for children to learn, beyond the classroom, whilst having fun and doing things they enjoy!
I’ve come across Doncaster Children’s University a few times and thought I would find out a bit more about it. Managed by Doncaster College & University Centre locally, it is part of a national organisation and typically children sign up to it through their schools.
Over 30 schools in Doncaster are involved. (If your child’s school in Doncaster isn’t involved you can get in touch via childrens.university@don.ac.uk or 01302 553791)
Each hour of activity is recorded in a child’s ‘Passport to Learning’ with children rewarded with certificates when they complete a certain amount of hours. The First certificate is awarded at 30 hours (Bronze), with consecutive certificates awarded at 65 (silver) and 100 (Gold) with a maximum of 1000 hours.
Lots of Doncaster attractions and activities are involved with Doncaster Children’s University, with children getting stamps in their passports at various places such as Brownie or Scouts Groups, Goals, the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Reptile Rendezvous, Scotty’s Heroes, Doncaster Knights Rugby, dancing clubs, Cast, darts (The Point), Potteric Carr as well as a bit further afield at places such as Sherwood Pines (any Forestry England locations). Children can also get points for doing things such as bird watching in the garden. You can search for Doncaster activities here.
They also have some downloadable activity sheets that anyone can complete at home here.
Children who have completed 30+ hours are invited to attend an annual graduation ceremony towards the end of the school year.
During the graduation ceremony, children wear a graduation cap and gown and receive their graduation certificate in front of an audience of parents/guardians and families. It is a great celebration and there are fun activities for all of the family to get involved in and enjoy!
Donna, who helps co-ordinate these events locally says:
In order to make these celebrations a fabulous day for children, families and school staff, we aim to provide refreshments, snacks, entertainment, transport, inspirational guest speakers and even a goody bag to take home. As a charitable trust, we rely on sponsors and donations for our annual graduations. If there are any businesses within and around Doncaster that would be interested in sponsoring or even donating items for our goody bags, please get in touch’
As a sponsor, businesses will be advertised through Doncaster College and University Centre on social media platforms and at all of the graduation ceremonies. Please contact donna.woodthorpe@don.ac.uk for more information.
Find out more about Doncaster Children’s University on their website and Facebook Page @DoncasterChildrensUniversity
