A ‘children’s university’ is poised to be brought to Bexley.

The Children’s University is a charity that works with schools to provide extra-curricular activities.

According to the charity, research shows more after-school activities can help pupils’ confidence and progress – with kids lacking those opportunities falling behind.

Councillors in Bexley are set to agree to bring the charity into the borough, and encourage all schools to sign up to its programme.

According to a report which will be heard on Tuesday, November 13: “By introducing the Children’s University scheme in Bexley, it will help address

closing the gaps amongst the affluent and deprived communities within the borough.

“The scheme allows young people and their families, regardless of their backgrounds, to feel engaged with the Bexley borough’s extra curriculum activities and break down any barriers that may exist in the disadvantaged areas.”

If given the go-ahead as expected, six schools will be signed up to a pilot scheme before the invitation will be rolled out across the borough.

According to the charity: “Typically, a local Children’s University partners with a number of schools and children are issued a Passport to Learning in which they record participation in quality-assured activities they take part in beyond the classroom.”

Councillors will discuss the proposals at a cabinet meeting on November 13.