Not enough children are studying information technology so Camden Council wants 300 teenagers to learn how to write their own smartphone apps.

Every year for the next three years, 100 Year 9 pupils – teenagers aged 13 and 14 – will be taught special coding skills.

The courses will specifically teach both pupils and teachers how to code their own multi-platform apps.

The council wants the £250,000 scheme to boost the employability of youngsters.

The take-up of information and communication technology (ICT) lessons is low in Camden schools, with little more than half the borough’s GCSE pupils studying the subject.

Cllr Valerie Leach, cabinet member for regeneration and growth, said: “We want to make our school leavers more employable and Camden an even more attractive place for businesses to operate.

“By setting aside this funding, we can provide skills for school children, stimulate their interest in programming and start them on a rewarding career path.”

The council will shortly look for a training provider to start the courses next academic year.