Passport to Learning Scheme

• National scheme enabling children to gain recognition for extra-curricular and out-of-school learning

• Includes school clubs, sports, music, outdoor activities, museums, libraries, and more

• Awards for 30, 65 and 100 hours

• Yearly graduation ceremony for children, held at The University of York

For each hour of learning, children gain a stamp/sticker in their passport. Once a year, children who have completed more than 30 hours of learning will be able to attend a graduation ceremony at The University of York. A passport costs £2.

What counts?• Most school clubs• Attendance at participating music,

sport, arts and uniformed groups• Some school trips (up to 5 hours)• Out-of-school activities at

approved Learning Destinations e.g. museums

Please note, not all activity providers in the city are part of the scheme. To participate, providers must contact York CU (York Cares) to be validated as a ‘Learning Destination’.

What doesn’t count?• Homework and homework clubs• Non-validated clubs• Informal activity, like playground

games• Lessons which are part of the

curriculum, such as PE

Where?• School clubs• Validated learning

destinations e.g. York Libraries, York Castle Museum (your child will be issued with a full list by their school)

Why?

Research from the University of Cambridge shows that recording and celebrating children’s participation in Children’s University activities has a positive impact on success at school.

Sport Culture CreativeAcademic Outdoor

Once a year, a graduation ceremony will be held at The University of York to celebrate children who have completed more than 30 hours of learning.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who can participate?All children aged between 5 and 14.

• Is there a cost?A passport costs £2. Some activity providers may also charge. Stickers/stamps are free.

• What is a Learning Destination?Learning Destinations are places, organisations or clubs which offer extra-curricular or out-of-school learning opportunities and activities. Any child involved with the York CU can gain stickers/stamps for their passports at these destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why are Learning Destinations validated?

Validating ensures the consistent quality of Learning Destinations. It is carried out against a national framework.

• What if my child is attending a club that isn’t validated?

Children can’t gain stickers/stamps for activity that is not validated. However, if the club/activity provider would like to be validated, let York CU know! Schools can provide a Learning Destinations Postcard with contact details and next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What if my child loses their passport?They will need to purchase a new one for £2. If the school have kept a record of their hours, they will be able to update their new passport.

• Can my child collect stamps/stickers on holiday?Yes! Have a look at the national Children’s University website for a list of Learning Destinations across the country. There are even one or two abroad.