The ceremony at St John’s College on Thursday 18th July was the first Children’s University graduation ever to take place at the University.

The 38 students wore traditional caps and gowns to receive their Bronze certificates, which they achieved by completing 30 hours of quality extra-curricular learning, all of which was accredited by the Children’s University.

Students took part in activities including a hair and beauty academy, karate lessons and volunteering at the Wisbech museum to clock up the hours. Several students achieved a number of hours towards their certificate with the time they spent rehearsing for and performing in the recent Thomas Clarkson Academy musical Into The Woods Jr.

Ger Graus, Chief Executive of the Children’s University, said: “This is about firsts – it was the first Children’s University graduation at the University of Cambridge and I thought the students were brilliant.”

Emlyn Moment, manager of the Cambridgeshire Children’s University, said: “For me it was wonderful to see the students dressed up and knowing the journey they have been on to get to this point.”

Speaking at the ceremony, Thomas Clarkson Academy Vice Principal Lisa Ling told students she was exceptionally proud of them for their efforts.

Mrs Ling said: “Wisbech as a community is starting to recognise the benefit of providing wider learning for its young people and theatres, museums and places of historical and environmental interest are all working with us to provide high quality learning destinations for the Fenland children.”