Children's University at Bamford Academy

At Bamford Academy we want every child to discover new interests, grow in confidence and develop a lifelong love of learning. That’s why we are proud to take part in Rochdale Children’s University – an exciting programme run by Altus Education Partnership that celebrates learning beyond the classroom.


What is Children’s University?

Children’s University is a national programme that encourages children to explore new activities, raise their aspirations and develop skills for life. Pupils collect activity hours by taking part in a wide range of experiences – from after-school clubs and creative workshops to online learning, summer schools, community activities and much more.
Once a child has earned 30 hours, they become eligible to graduate at a special ceremony. Graduates receive a certificate, wear a cap and gown, and celebrate their achievements with family and friends in a formal setting – this year at Rochdale Town Hall.


Celebrating success

In summer 2026 more than 600 young people from schools and community groups across Rochdale came together for the biggest Rochdale Children’s University graduation yet – a 51% increase on the previous year. Guests included the Mayor of Rochdale, local leaders, and children’s author M.G. Leonard, who spoke to graduates about perseverance and the power of not giving up.


Richard Ronksley, CEO of Altus Education Partnership, said:

“The Children’s University is an opportunity for every young child to engage in a wide range of curriculum and enrichment opportunities across the borough… so that they start to feel proud of the borough and also proud of their own achievements.”
This spirit of curiosity, determination and pride sits perfectly alongside our Bamford values of Perseverance, Responsibility and Respect."


How it works at Bamford

Children at Bamford can earn hours through many of the activities we already offer, as well as opportunities further afield. These might include:

  • After-school and lunchtime clubs
  • Creative and cultural workshops
  • Online learning challenges
  • Summer schools and holiday activities
  • Community and volunteering experiences
  • School trips and enrichment events

Staff support children to record their hours and help them work towards graduation. Taking part is free for schools and community groups in Rochdale, Heywood and Middleton.


Why it matters

Children’s University helps children:

  • Discover new interests and talents
  • Build confidence and independence
  • Develop skills that support learning in school and beyond
  • Feel a sense of achievement and belonging

It reflects our belief that every child can thrive when they are given the chance to explore, try new things and take pride in their progress - with kindness and acceptance at the heart of everything we do.


Find out more

If you would like to know more about Children’s University at Bamford Academy, or how your child can get involved, please speak to the school office or contact the Rochdale Children’s University team:
Email: RochdaleCU@altusep.com


You can also find more information about Altus Education Partnership and Children’s University on the trust website.

 

FAQs

How do I sign my child up to Children's University?
Speak to the school office at Bamford Academy, who can get your child started with recording their activity hours. You can also contact the Rochdale Children's University team directly at RochdaleCU@altusep.com.

Is there a cost to take part?
No, taking part is free for schools and community groups across Rochdale, Heywood and Middleton.

What counts as an activity hour?
A wide range of experiences count, including after-school and lunchtime clubs, creative and cultural workshops, online learning challenges, summer schools and holiday activities, community and volunteering experiences, and school trips or enrichment events. Many of the activities your child already takes part in at Bamford may count towards their hours.

How many hours does my child need to graduate?
Once a child has earned 30 hours, they become eligible to graduate at a special ceremony.

How are hours recorded?
Staff at Bamford support children to record their hours as they take part in activities and help them work towards graduation.

What happens at the graduation ceremony?
Graduates receive a certificate and wear a cap and gown, celebrating their achievements with family and friends in a formal setting. In summer 2025, the ceremony was held at Rochdale Town Hall and welcomed over 600 young people from across Rochdale.

Can my child take part in activities outside of school?
Yes. Children's University hours can be earned through activities at school and further afield, including community groups and clubs across Rochdale, Heywood and Middleton.

What age group is Children's University for?
It's aimed at primary-aged children, encouraging them to explore new interests and build skills from an early age. (Worth confirming the exact age range with the Altus/Rochdale CU team if you want to state this precisely on the page.)

Who runs Children's University?
It's a national programme, delivered locally in Rochdale by Altus Education Partnership as Rochdale Children's University.

What if I have more questions?
Speak to the school office, or contact the Rochdale Children's University team at RochdaleCU@altusep.com.