Children’s University: Class of 2015

Rochdale Sixth Form College first ever Children’s University Graduation Ceremony

Rochdale Sixth Form College hosted their first ever Children’s University Graduation Ceremony this week.

The event was attended by 46 children from years three to six and their parents. Also in attendance were special guests, Chief Executive of Children’s University Trust, Lynne Upton and former Rochdale member of Youth Parliament, Ciaran Cox - who is also a former student at Holy Family RC Primary School and Rochdale Sixth Form College, currently awaiting his A Level results.

Both Lynne and Ciaran delivered speeches, along with Alex Beeby, Emily Emmott and Melody Hunt from Caldershaw Primary School and Ryan Rothwell from Holy Family RC Primary School.

The Children's University Trust offers seven to 14 year olds exciting and innovative learning activities and experiences outside normal school hours, with a network of over 80 Children’s Universities throughout England.

Rochdale Sixth Form College manage the Rochdale Children’s University, aiming to raise aspirations of local students, boost achievements and foster a love of learning through encouraging children to try new things and reflect on their experiences. The college currently work with Caldershaw Primary School and Holy Family RC Primary School and plan to develop links with further schools throughout the coming year to help many more children graduate in 2016.

Children from Caldershaw Primary School and Holy Family RC Primary School commented on how proud and excited the graduation at Rochdale Sixth Form College made them feel, having worked hard since September 2014 to complete the hours required; developing their knowledge and skills in new areas, whilst also creating unforgettable memories.

Head Teacher at Holy Family RC Primary School, Helen Arnold said “Rochdale Children’s University has inspired our children, after the first graduation they’re even more motivated to take their learning further and achieve their next certificate.

"Holy Family RC Primary School are very glad to be one of the two pioneer schools in Rochdale to be involved in the Children’s University and are really embracing the opportunity, we’re feeling ambitious and hope to help the Rochdale Children’s University to expand. ”