OXFORD University dons will be promoting higher education during a special day at a Blackheath school.

Fellows from the university's Hertford College were due to spend the day with 120 pupils at Kidbrooke School, in Corelli Road, today.

The Year 10 pupils from Greenwich, Lewisham, Newham, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest boroughs, were offered an insight into university life.

They will listen to lectures, and attend workshops and tutorials.

Lecture topics include genetics and diseases, delivered by world expert on cancer research Sir Walter Bodmer, human rights in action and Shakespeare and tragedy.

Organised by the Foundation for Raising Achievement, the day aims to raise the aspirations of 14 and 15 year olds and help them make informed post 18 decisions.

The event is one in a programme of activities aimed at promoting higher education in the boroughs.

In September the youngsters will also be invited to participate in a day at the university.