PUPILS are being given the opportunity to increase their studies following a link-up with a Darlington college.

The Gifted and Talented scheme links Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College to year ten and year 11 pupils from schools across the town.

The children, aged between 14 and 16, attend after-school sessions on Wednesdays.

The youngsters are taught by lecturers from the college and also have access to extra learning materials.

Joy Colthup, director of studies for enrichment at the college, said: "Pupils coming in to the sixth form for these sessions have the opportunity to experience learning in smaller teaching groups and they enjoy being able to develop their skills and engage in higher level work."

Nathaniel Merriott, 14, a pupil at Hurworth School of Maths and Computing, is currently part of group working towards a level three qualification in website design.

"It's extremely interesting and has really extended my knowledge. The sixth form has excellent facilities and the teacher is very enthusiastic. It's a real taste of college."