5:30pm Thursday 26th January 2012
By Manisha Mistry
A NEW scheme aimed at inspiring young people to learn new skills will be led by Oaklands College.
The South Hertfordshire Children's University will target those aged between seven and 14 and encourage them to benefit from learning outside of school hours.
Zoe Hancock, principal at Oaklands College, said: "We felt it was really important to get on board with this new national initiative as we believe it will offer significant benefits to children, parents and the community as a whole.
"Engaging pupils with learning from a young age is important and we hope that by offering them exciting and fulfilling activities outside of school hours and during the holidays we will help to inspire young minds and build on skills and talents."
West Herts College in Watford will also be leading the programme.
Cath Gunn, head of the children's university, added: "For children it's all about adding excitement to the nest days of their lives. Be it recognising activity, such as attendance at an after-school club, or something less formal like a museum or theatre visit, a sports event or day trip."
She explained how there will be different levels of rewards to mirror their efforts, including a graduation ceremony.
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