Newcastle University’s Centre for Learning and Teaching has been made a member of Investing in Children.

It is the first time a university has been granted membership of the national, Chester-le-Street based organisation, which is concerned with the human rights of children and young people.

The Centre for Learning and Teaching, based in the School of Education, Communications and Language Sciences, has worked with Investing in Children on a number of projects. These include consulting with children and young people while researching a report for the Joseph Rowntree Foundation which looked at educational aspirations, and which has now been recognised as an official Investing in Children project.

Liz Todd, Professor of Educational Inclusion who authored the report on aspirations, said:  “We are really pleased that we’ve become the first university to become a member of Investing in Children. In our work it is incredibly important that we consult children and young people properly. We couldn’t do our job well if we didn’t do this and we’re delighted that our efforts have been recognised in this way.”

The Investing in Children Membership Scheme recognises and celebrates examples of imaginative and inclusive practices with children and young people. Organisations applying for the award have to demonstrate dialogue with young people which leads to change. However, children and young people have to provide the evidence for the organisation and endorse the membership report because it is a children’s award.
Notes for editors

• Investing in Children was established in 1995 by senior managers from Durham County Council and the NHS. The project is part of Durham County Council and also negotiates public partnerships through its development agency.

• There are currently 300 Investing in Children members in County Durham, and more than 150 members across the UK.

Photo caption: Dr Laura Mazzoli Smith is presented with the award.

published on: 3 May 2013