Over 400 Young Achievers Graduate From North Wales Children’s University, Igniting a Path of Lifelong Learning
In an extraordinary display of dedication to learning beyond the classroom, over 400 young learners from Flintshire and Wrexham have recently celebrated their graduation from the North Wales Children’s University. The momentous occasion unfolded at Wrexham University on the 19th and 20th of February, marking a significant milestone in the young learners’ journey of education.
The Children’s University initiative, known for its commitment to fostering a love for lifelong learning among children and youths, celebrated these graduates for their engagement in various extracurricular learning activities and experiences. The initiative extends its impact further with planned ceremonies to honor an additional 200 children and young people from Conwy, Denbighshire, Gwynedd, and Anglesey.
Rooted in the principle of encouraging youth to explore new learning territories outside school hours, the initiative aims to boost their aspirations while instilling in them a deep-rooted passion for learning. This celebration of extracurricular achievement was the culmination of the students accruing 30 or more hours of learning outside their regular school curriculum, supported enthusiastically by their teachers and facilitated by the Civic Mission Team.
The graduation event was not just a formal ceremony but a festive occasion replete with special entertainments and activities, offering a memorable experience for the youngsters who were also delighted by surprise visits from various beloved character cosplayers.
Nina Ruddle, Head of Public Policy Engagement at Wrexham University, underscored the initiative’s broader mission of building community, enhancing leadership skills, encouraging mental well-being, and nurturing love of learning among young people. Through extensive collaboration with diverse organizations, the effort seeks to connect community resources to craft enriching learning experiences for the youth.
Thanks to funding from the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales (HEFCW), the past year witnessed the expansion of this vibrant initiative across North Wales, enrolling over 50 schools in a collaborative effort led by Wrexham University in partnership with Bangor University. This collaborative endeavor aimed at mitigating social inequality in the region by engaging over 200 learning destinations, offering children an extensive range of activities to explore.
Reflecting on the positive influences of the Children’s University, Mr. Rob Williams, a teacher at Southdown Primary in Flintshire, highlighted the enthusiasm and personal growth observed in the participants. He noted the initiative not only engages children in a variety of extracurricular activities but also encourages them to reflect on their learning outcomes, fostering a sense of responsibility and self-improvement among them.
Maria Hinfelaar, Vice Chancellor at Wrexham University, expressed immense pride in the Children’s University and its mission. The graduation ceremony served as a vivid testament to the transformative power of education and the boundless potential of young minds. Witnessing the graduates’ joyful achievements, Hinfelaar emphasized the importance of building confidence and aspirations in the nation’s future leaders and professionals.
The North Wales Children’s University stands as a beacon of hope and innovation in education, demonstrating the tremendous impact of additional learning experiences on children’s lives. Its continued success mirrors the collective dedication of educational institutions, communities, and, most importantly, the young learners who have embarked on this remarkable journey of discovery and growth.
