Dinnington Town Football Club is thrilled to announce its new role as a Children’s University Learning Destination, an official validation that allows the club to support children's growth and learning outside the traditional classroom setting.
Through this partnership, children involved in our club’s activities, whether in training or matches, can now earn valuable learning credits that contribute toward Children’s University awards.
This is an exciting opportunity for young players to enhance their development, celebrate their hard work, and cultivate a passion for lifelong learning.
About the Children’s University program
Children’s University is a registered charity dedicated to fostering a love of learning in children by encouraging participation in extracurricular activities.
By partnering with schools, the program creates a level playing field for students from all backgrounds, giving them access to learning opportunities that can enhance their self-confidence, resilience, and academic performance.
This inclusive approach is aimed at making the most of the 91% of a child’s waking life spent outside the classroom, helping them to explore interests, develop skills, and broaden their career aspirations.
Research underscores the powerful impact of extracurricular activities on children’s educational attainment and overall wellbeing.
Participation has been shown to improve students' connection to school, build their self-confidence, and equip them with skills that last a lifetime.
However, children without access to such opportunities often struggle with self-confidence and career readiness, leading to a significant attainment gap among disadvantaged students.
Our partnership with Children’s University aims to combat these challenges, ensuring every child has the chance to shine.
What this means for Dinnington Town’s young players
Starting now, all children up to and including our U11’s team, as well as those in our nursery training for ages 4 to 6, can earn credits simply by participating in training sessions and matches.
Here’s how the program works:
Credit System: Children earn 1 credit for each training session they attend and 1 credit for each match they play.
Awards: Accumulated credits count toward various award levels:
Bronze Award: 30 credits per year, celebrated in school assemblies.
Silver Award: 65 credits per year, also recognised in school assemblies.
Gold Award: Starting from 100 credits and up to 1,000+ credits, awarded at a formal graduation event held at an external venue.
How It works
After each training session or match, children log into their online Children’s University dashboard to enter a unique code associated with the activity.
This simple system allows them to track their progress, see their credits grow, and work toward their next award level.
Getting involved
Many schools across Rotherham and SouthYorkshire already participate in the Children’s University program.
However, if your child’s school is not yet enrolled, we encourage you to reach out to a teacher and ask them to contact Nicola Jeavons at Rotherham Children’s University. Schools can join by emailing cu@rotherham.gov.uk or calling 01709 334 005.
Once enrolled, your child can start earning credits right away.
At Dinnington Town Football Club, we’re incredibly proud to contribute to our players' growth, both on and off the field, and look forward to celebrating their achievements as they work toward their awards.
Join us in supporting the next generation as they build confidence, resilience, and a love of learning through sports and play.
