Learning Destinations - children's questions

Why should I take part?

The scheme is about making learning fun and you get to visit lots of exciting places and do exciting things. The activities are not too difficult and you can always ask for help. If your school is affiliated to us you can also earn credits for clubs you can attend at your school too!  Best of all, once you have earned thirty credits you will get a National Children's University certificate presented to you by your head teacher.

How old do I have to be to take part in Learning Destinations?

The activity booklets are designed for children aged 7 - 14 years old. However, if you are younger or older than this and want to take part, it's fine to ask Mum or Dad to help you complete the tasks.

What places can I visit?

The list of venues which are part of the scheme is changing all the time. To find out what is currently on offer please visit the host venues page. If your school is taking part the chances are the after-school clubs it offers can also give you stamps in your Passport.

How do I know if my school is affiliated?

Each venue that is part of the scheme will have an official Learning Destinations plaque on the wall or a sticker. These look like this picture:

If your school isn’t currently part of the scheme why not ask Mum or Dad to speak with the head teacher and suggest that they contact us on 01622 626790 or at kcu@kent.gov.uk?

Why aren't all the tourist places part of the scheme?

Each place that wants to become part of the scheme needs to produce an exciting activity booklet for you to enjoy. Some places need longer than others to produce their booklets. Also, some venues do not wish to be part of the scheme, as they have other things for young people to do at their site. Not all schools are involved as some head teachers have other priorities. If your school is not part of the scheme why not ask your school council to suggest it, or get your parents to speak with the head teacher?

Can I go along without an adult?

If Mum and Dad think you are old enough to attend by yourself that is ok. However, we would always recommend you visit any tourist attraction with an adult to ensure you stay safe. Remember adults are allowed to help you complete the activity booklets, so it is always a good idea to ask one to accompany you in case you get stuck for an answer. School clubs are great if you want to attend without an adult.

Is there a time limit to gain a certificate?

There is no time limit. You can earn your thirty credits in six weeks or six years! It is up to you how quickly you get your Passport To Learning stamped and completed. It’s not a race, its about making learning exciting!

Is Learning Destinations like school?

No, it is not like school. For example you do not have to wear school uniform, you can choose where you want to visit and you take part in the scheme outside normal school hours (e.g. in the holidays).

Can I do Learning Destinations instead of school?

No, the Learning Destinations scheme is not designed to replace school. You can only take part in Learning Destinations outside normal school hours.

What happens if I lose my Passport to Learning?

If you lose your passport you will need to ask us for another one. There is a charge of £3.50 for this. Please be aware that if you lose your passport any credits you have earned will be lost too and you will need to visit the venues again to get your passport stamped. It is very important that you take care of your passport.

How many credits do I need for a certificate?

You need 30 credits to earn a bronze certificate. Once you have completed 65 credits you will receive a silver certificate, and 100 credits entitles you to a gold certificate. Anyone who collects over 100 credits will be presented with their certificates by the KCU Chancellor during our annual awards evening which takes place at a real university. Not only will you receive your gold certificate from the Kent Children's University Chancellor, but you will also be given a tour of the university and provided with a buffet tea for yourself and Mum or Dad.

My School isn’t taking part, can I still take part?

Definitely yes! If your school isn’t part of the scheme you can still request a passport and visit tourist attractions which are part of the scheme. Also any courses or workshops you attend at the KCU hub schools, or that are delivered by affiliated external providers will all give you extra credits in your Passport to Learning.

What if I forget my passport?

That isn’t a problem. If you visit a tourist attraction without your passport just ask the staff for the KCU pack. Once you complete it the venue staff will stamp the pack itself. You can then take that back to school and ask your teacher to transfer the stamp into your passport.