MORE than 100 children donned caps and gowns for a university graduation ceremony in Horsforth.

Young people aged between seven and 14 , who have each taken part in at least 30 hours of extra-curricular learning, graduated in style from Leeds Children’s University.

Ten-year-old Frances Shelley, who delivered a vote of thanks at the ceremony, said: "Learning outside school might seem boring – but it’s not. I’ve loved every minute of my time with Leeds Children’s University, taking part in two Super Saturday events, netball and Gaelic football.

"I also ran against Stuart Andrew MP in a mock-election. He suggested we made school days longer and had no school holidays – he didn’t win."

Launched in November 2014, as part of the nationwide Children’s University Trust, the scheme is based at Leeds Trinity University.The programme promotes social mobility by providing activities and experiences outside normal school hours.

It involves close work with organisations such as Leeds Museums and Galleries, Harewood House, Royal Armouries and Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre, with events and workshops for young people to attend.

Eleven-year-old Aris Ntermtziou said Leeds Children’s University helped him to make new friends since arriving from Greece last year. He said: "When I moved here, it was really different and I didn’t know anyone. I did lots of after-school activities like football, rugby and basketball, which has been really fun. And, I’ve met lots of new people.”

Extra-curricular activities for young students included cooking lessons, graffiti workshops, sports sessions and dance clubs.

Professor Margaret A House, Vice-Chancellor at Leeds Trinity, said: "Becoming the base of Leeds Children’s University was an easy decision for Leeds Trinity University, given our organisations’ shared aims. We’re both committed to raising aspirations, boosting achievement and fostering a love of learning, so that young people can make the most of their abilities and interests.

“I want to congratulate every single child who has completed 30 or more hours of voluntary learning activities with Leeds Children’s University."