HIGH-achieving pupils from Powys have joined a national network to support their learning and improve their interview skills to help access the UK’s leading universities.

More than 80 county learners joined the Seren Network, a national project which supports the country’s brightest sixth formers to achieve their academic potential, at its launch on Monday.

Powys County Council’s School’s Service is supporting the Welsh Government initiative locally.

At the launch the pupils along with Bridgend and Neath Port Talbot youngsters took part in subject specific workshops. They will now meet regularly to access advice and support on applying to universities.

Councillor Arwel Jones said of the project: “It is fantastic that every high school had pupils selected to take part and to help stretch them and ensure that they get in to the universities they want and deserve.”

Ian Roberts, head of schools service said: “We are extremely proud that over 80 learners qualified for the programme highlighting that we have some very talented and gifted learners in Powys Schools with learners identified from all 12 secondary schools.”