CHILDREN are being offered a new way to learn at a Colchester primary school.

About 175 pupils at Myland Primary School, Mill Road, have become part of the Colchester Children’s University.

Every time they take part in learning-based activities outside school time they are credited on a learning passport with “hours”, which count towards a Children’s University degree.

Senior teacher Paul Rayner said: “We have about 16 clubs in the school and it’s is a wonderful chance to get kids involved in outside learning.

“It benefits those already in the clubs and encourages others to take part.

“Children begin to think of learning as something meaningful and start collecting their hours.”

The scheme, for children aged between seven and 14 involves sessions before and after school time, at weekends and during holidays.

The first graduation ceremony was held recently and now many more children are getting involved, with the next graduation planned for June. Mr Rayner hopes the scheme will encourage even more children to take part in extra-curricular activities.

For details, call 01206 245057, or visit www.childrensuniversity.co.uk