Youngsters pick up degrees in children's university scheme (From Enfield Independent)

Youngsters pick up degrees in children's university scheme in Enfield

3:59pm Thursday 28th June 2012 in News By David Hardiman, Reporter

It’s graduation time at an Enfield university, but the students picking up awards are picking up awards a few years early.

300 children between 10-12 from the borough’s primary schools are dressing up in Middlesex University’s purple gowns and mortar boards to receive certificates as part of a scheme to raise aspirations of pupils.

The project – called the Children’s University – recognises children for their achievements at school and in extra-curricular activities, and culminates in them receiving bronze, silver and gold certificates at Middlesex’s Trent Park campus.

If the pupils spend 300 hours on their subject they can receive a gold diploma, and a gold degree for 400 hours. The scheme aims to encourage children to think about university.

Councillor Ayfer Orhan, cabinet member for schools, said: “This has been an extremely successful year for this project which has attracted 17 schools, almost doubling on last year.

“Children have worked hard in after school activities to achieve their certificates proving that they can apply themselves and make a big commitment to learning outside school.”