News release for immediate use 

Over 400 pupils to take over The Herbert for Graduation Ceremony
 

On the morning of Friday 20 June, over 400 pupils from Finham Primary School and Frederick BirdPrimary School in Coventry 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, each child will receive their certificate at the largest ever Children's University Midlands Graduation Ceremony, as they take over the whole of The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum!
 

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.
 

David Bustt, a Coventry Children's University Patron and former English professional footballer - and currently Football Community manager at Football League One side Coventry City, will present the awards.
 

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.
 

In addition to the ceremony the pupils will also have the chance to visit the new ‘Roman Empire: Power & People' exhibition which is on tour at The Herbert from the British Museum and includes, have a go at film making, and play ‘People Bingo' with Undergraduates from the University of Warwick.
 

During the ceremony there will also be a live video-link being beamed to the Children's' University head office in Manchester where over 100 of their managers, including delegates from the new Children's University in China will watch the proceedings.
 

Carolyn Lloyd, Coventry 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 families during their Graduation but will also have fun learning about the history of the Roman Empire. 

"The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum is one of Coventry's finest learning venues and their staff have been exceptional in the planning of this jam-packed event."
 

Richard Machin, Head Teacher at Finham Park Primary School said, "If you are motivated to learn and have ownership of it, you can achieve anything.
 

"Children's University is the spark that awakens our children to the possibility of achieving great things."
 

Gary Hall, Chief Executive of Culture Coventry, the trust that runs The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum commented, "We are delighted to welcome these motivated young people to the Herbert for their special ceremony in recognition of their achievements.
 

"All of Coventry's museums and heritage sites offer an abundance of learning opportunities so it is fitting that the Children's University have chosen the Herbert in which to stage their graduation event."
 

Kate Harper, Manager of Warwick Volunteers, University of Warwick said, "The event will be as inspiring for our students as it is for the children graduating - it's a great opportunity for them to get involved in helping the children to celebrate their achievements.
 

"Over 1000 students from the University of Warwick volunteer through Warwick Volunteers each year, and volunteering with schools and with Children's University allows them to develop a range of new skills while making a positive contribution to the local community."
 

Ends/

Editors' Notes

Release issued by Steve Holden of Prominent Media and Communications Limited, Vienna House, Birmingham International Park, Solihull, West Midlands. B37 7GN. DIRECT - 07973-329964

Children's University

The Children's University is growing fast both here in the UK and Internationally. Interest in their work is growing, in part due to the powerful evidence generated through the independent evaluations of their work that proves that participation in Children's University learning impacts significantly on children's attendance, attitudes and achievements in school.

Their aim is to help parents/carers find exciting and creative learning activities which the pupils will enjoy and for them to feel proud of their achievements.

Additional information may be found at http://www.childrensuniversity.co.uk/