UNIVERSITY life is being opened up to a new generation of Swindon school pupils.

Weekly emails have been flying between town school pupils and undergraduates at the University of Bath for the past seven months.

And 25 Year 9 and 10 pupils from across Swindon have all been able to gain study tips, advice on further and higher education and titbits about university life from the specially trained mentors.

The youngsters, from Nova Hreod, Greendown Community, Churchfields and Dorcan Technology schools, were all picked as having the potential to do well at school and then go to university, but who had low aspirations or no family background of higher education.

As well as regular email sessions with their mentors, the pupils had a chance to meet them face-to-face during a visit to the University of Bath.

Churchfields' Year 10 pupil Alexandra Edwards-Clements took part in the scheme.

She said: "I found it an extremely interesting, helpful and fun experience.

"Having someone there to talk to about any concerns, any problems with school work and not be judged for it was a great experience and I made a really good new friend too."

The e-mentoring scheme is run as part of the national Aimhigher programme to widen higher education participation, by encouraging those from unconventional backgrounds to find out more about the opportunities open to them.

Laura Burchall, a humanities teacher at Churchfields, said: "The pupils now feel that university is a realistic option for them.

"They enjoyed talking to someone who has recently been through what they are experiencing, rather than talking to teachers.

"They said it was like having a guide on the side' to help them through any difficulties.

"Some of them really looked up to their mentor as a role model.

"We had two students who were exhibiting major behavioural problems but they have now really turned a corner as a result of the scheme.

"They are more focused and are engaging well with teachers and students."

The university students get special training for their work, and gain ongoing support to ensure they give the most to pupils.

The University of Bath runs a series of Aimhigher events to widen participation in higher education, including tutoring schemes, open days and summer schools for school students in the south west region.