Children graduate while learning about enterprise from John Lewis boss.
On the afternoon of Monday 4th July, over 140 Birmingham children will be visiitng Aston University. Pupils from Anderton Park Primary School, Barford Primary School, Clifton Primary School, Colmore Primary School, Hillstone Primary School, Grove Primary School and Small Heath School will be donning their caps and gowns to celebrate their achievements with their families, at a graduation ceremony with a difference.
At this special event, the children will learn about aspirations, resilience and enterprise from Andy Street, Managing Director of John Lewis.
The children taking part will all be graduating from the Children’s University, having voluntarily completed a wide range of extra-curricular activities that have earned them the privilege of receiving their Children’s University Award.
Dr Anita Bhalla, the Birmingham Children’s University Chancellor and Helen O’Donnell the Chief Executive of National Children’s University will present the awards together with Andy Street.
The Children’s University is an international charity that provides 7 to 14 year olds (and 5 & 6 year olds with their families) with access to exciting and innovative CU Learning Activities and experiences outside the normal school day.
It celebrates achievement, and rewards participation, through the award of Children’s University certificates, with the aim of raising children’s aspirations to reach their full potential through learning.
Newman University will also be hosting a Children’s University Graduation Ceremony for more schools this summer, as Children’s University spreads across the city.
Carolyn Lloyd, Birmingham Children’s University Manager said, “This graduation ceremony will be both an aspirational and an unforgettable experience for these children. Not only will they receive their awards watched by their proud families during their Graduation but will also learn more about the world of enterprise.”
Andy Street CBE, MD of John Lewis Partnership and Chair of the LEP for Birmingham and Solihull added: “I welcome the aspirational ethos of the Birmingham Children’s University. It is encouraging that any child across the city can experience this. The diversity of the extra-curricular opportunities available in our communities is remarkable. The museums, country parks, libraries, local businesses and music services involved all add a richness to the children’s lives. Together the University raises the confidence and attainment of our youth.”
Helen O’Donnell, Chief Executive of Children’s University Trust commented: “One of the highlights of my job is meeting children and their families at Children’s University Graduations. It’s a chance for children to get recognised for all they do, and a great reminder as to why I love my job. Children’s University works with over 1,000 schools, and the children of Birmingham Children’s University are a shining example of why.”
