Children’s University rolled out more widely in Cardiff

A successful pilot scheme designed to encourage and develop a love of learning is being expanded across Cardiff.

Cardiff University and Cardiff Council is working in partnership with the Children’s University, a UK charity which works with local education authorities, schools and community partners to deliver a range of educational sessions for children.

The scheme will give pupils access to more than 90 different activities covering art and music, science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) as well as cultural and graphics design courses. each contributing towards a ‘Passport to Learning’.

A recent pilot scheme saw more than 400 children involved, including young people from St Mary the Virgin Church in Wales Primary in Butetown, St Fagan’s Primary, Peter Lea Primary in Fairwater and Windsor Clive Primary in Ely.

Based on positive feedback from participating schools, Cardiff Council has now committed additional funding to expand the project to ensure children from all backgrounds can enjoy the world-class amenities Cardiff has to offer.

Cardiff University, supported by the Research Wales Innovation Fund (RWIF), will also be contributing a wide range of bilingual learning resources to the Children’s University online platform.

Alongside modules for science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM), Cardiff Business School is also developing a programme teaching children about basic finances, which could be shared and used in schools across Wales.

Vice Chancellor of Cardiff University Professor Colin Riordan said: “We recognise the important role Cardiff University has in supporting and inspiring young people to expand their learning and fulfil their true potential."

Leader of Cardiff Council, Councillor Huw Thomas said: “This is an exciting milestone in the delivery of ‘Passport to the City’ and the agreement between the Council and Cardiff University cements our commitment to ensuring that children and young people growing up in Cardiff, can enjoy, experience and make the most of the great things this city has to offer.

“By optimising use of the city’s resources and the fantastic opportunities available through partnership working, we are able to engage with children and young people through a wonderfully diverse range of learning and wellbeing provision, some of which they might not usually be able to access.”

Speaking about the pilot scheme which concluded earlier this year, Nicki Prichard, headteacher at St Mary the Virgin Church in Wales Primary in Butetown said: “Around 100 of our Year 4 and 5 pupils took part. We had some amazing visits from Professor Paul Roche from Cardiff University who showed us telescopes, infrared cameras and gave our children a new understanding of space.

“Just as importantly, the Children’s University sessions helped our children learn about creativity, teamwork and the importance of collaboration.”

Interested in delivering a Children’s University in-person or online event? Contact the Children’s University team: info-childrensuniversity@cardiff.ac.uk