A GLASGOW university is helping break down the barriers to higher education.

Caledonian University is boosting student numbers from areas across the city that are traditionally low with a new scheme called the Caledonian Club.

It aims to challenge secondary pupils' preconception of university life with a range of confidence-building initiatives.

A total of 36 senior pupils from All Saints Secondary spent a day on campus attending classes, talking to lecturers and touring the university's facilities including the award-winning library.

It is hoped the groundbreaking club will increase progression rates to higher education from schools across the city.

Caledonian Club project co- ordinator Susan Grant said: "Caledonian University is breaking down barriers to higher education through giving young people the chance to understand more about university life and help them make informed choices about their future.

"Pupils who have taken part say it has made them more confident about going to college or university and motivated them to work harder at school.

"If you think back to your own first day at university or college, imagine how different it would have been if you had you already been a student for a day."