A SUCCESSFUL scheme to set youngsters learning outside school hours has just been started at Alcester Infants School.

The Children's University scheme, run in conjunction with Warwick University, has been organised by Warwickshire LEA to get youngsters taking part in activities they are interested in and want to do.

They can choose a range of modules from football to pottery and the scheme is in addition to the extended learning which already goes on at the Moorfield Road school.

Children must complete eight hours of the activity they have chosen and after finishing three modules, will receive a bronze medal.

They can then go on to do silver (six modules) and gold (nine modules) and the gold medal presentation will take place at Warwick University.

Headteacher Sally Staley said: "We're really excited about this new venture and do hope that parents will support their children in helping them to achieve their Children's University medals."

Dunnington Junior School was one of the first schools in south Warwickshire to take up the scheme.

Headteacher Tim Lee said: "It's really something that all the children are enthusiastic about.

"They can choose an activity which can range from sport or an academic subject or something completely different.

"Or even if the children think of something they want to do we can always look and see if we can accommodate them."

Mr Lee added: "We're hoping the high schools in the area will also get involved so the children can continue to expand their knowledge."