Selby College has announced a range of Learning Destinations across the district for its recently launched Children’s University.

The Selby Children’s University works with schools to encourage their pupils to take part in learning activities outside school hours.

To help deliver the programme, Selby College has secured a wide variety of Learning Destinations in the local area including Carol Saunders Swim School, Chelles Dance Academy, Glazed and Confused Ceramic and Art Studio, Goole Gymnastics Club, KCMA- Kris Crump Martial Arts, Miss Hannah’s School of Dance, Perfect Pitch Stars Performing Arts, Rainbows at Barlby and Osgodby Methodist Church Hall, Sign with Sarah-Jade and The Painting Pot.

Elaina Wynne, Studio Owner of The Painting Pot, said:

“Children’s University is a wonderful charity dedicated to fostering a love of learning in children by promoting participation in extra-curricular activities both in and outside of school and we couldn't be more excited to be part of their mission."

“At the Painting Pot, we believe in the power of creativity to inspire and educate young minds. By becoming a Learning Destination provider for Selby’s Children’s University, we're committed to providing a level playing field of opportunity for children of all backgrounds to explore their artistic talents and unleash their imagination through pottery painting. We can't wait to welcome more young learners to our

studio and embark on this exciting journey together.”

James Pennington, Head of School Partnerships at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, said:

“We are delighted to have a diverse range of Learning Destinations on board to provide high-quality learning opportunities and experiences for Selby Children’s University pupils. Our aim is to inspire them to try something new and explore particular areas further, helping to develop their learning, confidence and skills. We hope to welcome more Learning Destination providers in the Selby district in the near future.”

Four schools in the local area have already signed up to become Children’s University members including Airmyn Park Primary School, Athelston Community Primary School, Hemingbrough Community Primary School and Selby Community Primary School – with more schools in the pipeline.

The Children’s University Trust is a charity which works with schools to encourage the participation of extra-curricular activities for students aged 5-14 years old in primary and secondary education. Each Children’s University works with a broad network of local authorities, educational institutions and charities to co-ordinate the delivery of the learning initiative in the local area.

Pupils involved receive a ‘Passport to Learning’ which they use to collect stamps each time they participate in a learning activity such as an after-school club, with the aim of collecting as many stamps and hours as possible. The diverse learning opportunities include activities led by the College, the pupil’s school and other Learning Destinations, with activities completed either at home or online.

Once the academic year ends, the children’s achievements will be commended at an annual Children’s University Graduation Ceremony, hosted by the College and attended by parents and carers.

To find out more and get involved in Selby’s Children’s University, please visit here.