With tough deadlines, a long, 1,000-word assignment and guidance from their own expert tutor – schoolchildren across the region have been finding out if they are suited to university life when they are older.

And after the essays were submitted and marked, some even had the opportunity to wear gowns and mortarboards on a visit to a university campus for their own 'graduation' ceremony.

Pupils from South Wootton Junior School in King's Lynn were among the schools that travelled to the University of East Anglia to graduate from the scheme, which is co-ordinated by a charity called 'The Brilliant Club'.

Twelve pupils worked with Dr Laura Worsley, a literature expert at the University of Roehampton, in London, to produce an essay on how writers use nature in literature.

Their assignments were graded using university system of a First, a 2.1 or a 2.2.

Malcolm Brockway, a Year 5 teacher said: 'The assignment was certainly a challenge but the pupils really enjoyed the experience.

'They came away inspired and motivated to learn; it boosted their confidence and self-esteem as well.'

South Wootton was among 18 other schools from the region which took part.

Steph Hamilton, from The Brilliant Club, said: 'We hope that they have found the experience valuable and enjoyable, and that they are really proud of what they have achieved.'

Is your school working on a special project? Email louise.hepburn@archant.co.uk