A new drive has been launched to encourage pupils from less advantaged areas to go to university.

Oxford Brookes University staff and teachers from Peers Secondary School, Littlemore, Oxford, are brainstorming ideas on how to inspire more teenagers to continue their education beyond sixth form. One move being planned is earlier targeting of pupils who might not have considered applying to university.

It comes after the Government announced a new initiative, The Excellence Challenge, to improve the education prospects of children in deprived areas.

Peers is part of the East Oxford Education Action Zone, run by the Hamilton Oxfordshire Schools Partnership.

Deputy headteacher Jeanette Mackie said: "The challenge is about widening the participation of students into further education.

"These children might not otherwise consider university because of financial constraints, or simply because they would be the first generation to go to university.

"We have always had strong links with Oxford Brookes. This is a good way to strengthen them."

University staff may visit children as young as 11, long before they decide what GCSE subjects to study, to get them thinking about a university career early on.

A group of pupils from Peers are also to attend a summer school at the university, for a taster of university life.

Oxford Brookes' participation officer Nicky Stallwood said: "It is extremely important for schools and post-16 education providers to encourage and motivate students to continue their studies beyond age of 16 and achieve their potential for learning."

The school also has links with Oxford University to provide support for gifted pupils.

The announcement comes just days after academics at Oxford University launched a new bursary scheme to help students from poorer backgrounds. From September 2002 students on full maintenance grants will be able to apply for extra financial help.