SCHOOLS across Devon will now be able to offer a range of innovative and exciting out-of-school learning activities after the launch of an exciting extra-curricular project last week.

The Devon Children's University was launched at Okehampton College on Thursday, April 26 by Devon County Council and Plymouth University, who will manage the project.

The Children's University is a successful national project which recognises the achievements of young people who take part in quality out-of-hours learning activities.

These activities can be run at a school as an after-school club, or may be offered by accredited learning destinations like a museum, library or tourist attraction.

Activities on offer could range from gardening to nature trails, from dance workshops to cooking clubs. Community clubs can also register with the project as a validated activity provider.

The aim is to raise the aspirations of youngsters aged five to 14 by introducing them to a wide range of learning opportunities.

Initially the project will actively seek to benefit children who may not naturally aspire to higher education.

Learning achievements are recorded on a passport, and awarded with certificates when they complete 30, 65 and 100 hours of activity.

Recipients of the 100 hour gold awards will be able to attend a full graduation ceremony, complete with gowns and mortar boards, at Plymouth University campus.

Students at Okehampton College were among the first to enrol and collect their passports.

Daryll Chapman, Okehampton College principal, said: 'Okehampton College and Okehampton Learning Community were excited and very keen to be a part of this launch of such a positive project.

'Every year I set the new year 6 children joning the college one challenge — to do one extra curricular activitiy.

'We get into thinking learning is what is done in the classroom. But it is something that youngsters can do all the time through extra-curricular activities.

'It is important that we celebrate and recognise these fantastic opportunities that are available to yong people.

'It is also important to celebrate something that will have long term benefits for young people's futures.

'This project is a big step in the right direction.

Sue Clarke, Devon County Council's head of service for education, said: 'The launch of Devon's Children's University marks the start of an innovative programme for schools that will innovate, challenge and raise aspirations for children across the county.

'We are delighted that schools in Devon will be offered this opportunity to expand and enhance their out-of-school hours activities, and to work closely with local organisations to provide enjoyable and educational venues in which to run them.'

Okehampton county councillor Christine Marsh said: 'This is a really exciting new venture for schools across Devon which will enhance the opportunities already available for children to develop their vocational and life skills.

'The project will also encourage children to take an active part in their local communities and build important links with local businesses and organisations.'