ON THURSDAY, March 26, more than 100 children graduated from York Children’s University (York CU) in a ceremony held at the University of York.

York CU aims to raise aspirations, boost achievement and foster a love of learning, so that children can make the most of their abilities and interests.

Children collect stickers in their CU Passports for attending cultural, creative, sport, outdoors and academic activities.

About 900 children are involved in the scheme. They are eligible for graduation when they have achieved at least 65 hours of extra-curricular activity.

One young graduate, Max Fentiman, received a Masters Degree for 700 hours of CU activities. Another, Amy Wade, treated us to a ballet performance before the ceremony, demonstrating just how talented and dedicated these children are.

In true graduation style, the ceremony began with a procession of the graduands dressed in gowns and mortar-boards, led by Professor Matt Matravers, chair of the volunteering and community committee at the university who also presented the awards.

Professor Matravers said: “York’s Children’s University changes lives by inspiring children, broadening their horizons, boosting their self-confidence, and showing them what they might do and become. I am immensely proud to have the chance to meet some of the graduating class and to talk to them about their achievements.”

A short film was screened which highlighted the huge range of activities available through York CU, including the ever-popular interactive CU in the City sessions, the innovative in-school business modules and the numerous CU Learning Destinations such as museums and sports clubs.

Sophie Jewett, managing director of York Cocoa House, gave an inspirational speech, urging the children to “keep growing”.

She said: “I find working with York Children’s University an invaluable and inspiring experience. The children never fail to be inquisitive, engaging and imaginative in our workshops.”

The ceremony finished with hat throwing from our brilliant York CU graduates, followed by a drinks reception and some chocolate treats courtesy of York Cocoa House, for the children and their justly proud parents.

For more information on events or how to get involved in York CU, phone 01904 323482.


• For more information about all the York Cares programmes, and to get involved, visit the website at www.yorkcares.co.uk and follow @YorkCares on Twitter.