Leeds is a vibrant city where all young people should be able to thrive and prosper, but sadly too many talented children still face barriers that make higher education feel out of reach. For some, it means going to school hungry. For others, it's never meeting anyone who's been to university. These challenges aren't about ability: they're about circumstance. When a child believes university is possible, everything changes. 

• Children in the North of England are more likely to grow up in poverty than anywhere else in the UK: over one million by 2026. 
• In Leeds West, a child eligible for free school meals is four times less likely to gain a degree than a child in London. 
• Where you grow up affects your chances. 

We work with national charity IntoUniversity to support children from as young as seven in some of Leeds' most disadvantaged communities. Through after-school sessions, mentoring and holiday programmes, we help them build confidence, skills and aspirations for the future.

And for older children with academic potential but limited resources, our Reach for Excellence programme offers subject taster sessions, study skills workshops and practical guidance, ensuring that when they leave school the door to opportunity is wide open. 

"IntoUniversity has shaped me into who I am today... without IntoUniversity I'd still be stuck."

Over the past decade, we've supported more than 13,000 young people. Their determination inspires us every day, but there is so much more to do and there are so many more who need our help. 

If you believe in breaking down barriers to education, supporting us today can open doors for the next generation.