ALMOST 30 schools from Derbyshire will be involved in the launch of a campaign to encourage more young people to go to university.

Year 9 and Beyond is being organised by Aimhigher Derbyshire and will be attended by 1,500 pupils at 27 schools between now and Friday, January 29.

The initial event sets up a programme of activities aimed at raising learners' attainment and aspirations, as well as a mentoring scheme that will see undergraduate students "matched" with pupils in schools as mentors.

Schools include Bemrose Community School, da Vinci Community College, Derby Moor Community Sports College, Merrill College, Murray Park Community School, Noel Baker Community School, Sinfin Community School, and West Park School.

Participants will have the opportunity to find out more about the options available to them both now and in the future.

Joy Lewis, Aimhigher development and activities officer, said: "Every year this event launches our project in style, and this year will be no exception. We want learners to leave feeling positive about themselves and excited about their futures."

For its mentoring scheme, Aimhigher Derbyshire has already recruited more than 80 undergraduates.