THE first pupils from schools from across Devon to graduate from the Children's University have been recognised at a ceremony in Plymouth.

They included students from Tavistock and Okehampton Colleges and a number of West Devon feeder primaries.

The Children's University is a national project which recognises the achievements of young people who take part in quality out-of-hours learning activities. These can be run at a school as an after-school club, or offered by 'learning destinations' such as museums, libraries, sports clubs or tourist attractions.

The Children's University aims to raise the aspirations of young people by introducing them to a wide range of learning opportunities and a love of lifelong learning.

It was pioneered locally by Devon County Council and Plymouth University.

It began in April last year and now 22 Devon children have graduated from the project.

They have each taken part in at least 100 hours of out-of-hours learning activities with several having completed over 200 hours.

The children, who were dressed in full academic gowns for the event, each received a certificate at the graduation ceremony at Plymouth University.

The ceremony featured a showcase of talents from several groups validated by the Children's University including break-dancing, a poetry recital and a live performance from members of the Devon Jazz Youth Orchestra.

Tavistock College teacher James O'Connell said: 'We offer all sorts of clubs which count towards the Children's University at Tavistock College — sports, drama, chess, debate, even a computer club.

'It's great having the facilities and a real incentive for the children to get involved and then keep coming.

'There are five students from our school here and from primary schools who will be going to Tavistock either next year or the year afterwards.'

Devon County Council's head of education, Sue Clarke, said: 'It's fantastic seeing these children's achievements recognised by their families and teachers.

'This is the first graduation since the scheme was brought to Devon last year and its great how much support it's received both from children and their schools.

'The Children's University works very well at showing children across Devon that a university education is a real option and not beyond their reach.'