As the new school term gets under way, the usual costs can begin to weigh on parents and carers. School uniforms, pens and pencils can all add up.

But one expense often overlooked is the scientific calculator, now a standard requirement for pupils studying GCSE maths. Depending on the model, calculators can cost between £15 and £35.

That is why, in May, Cumbria-based accountancy firm JF Hornby & Co pledged to provide hundreds of free scientific calculators to secondary schools across the southern Lake District, in a bid to ensure no pupil goes without in the run-up to important exams.

The 50-strong firm has now begun delivering on that promise, with Ulverston Victoria High School, located just 15 minutes from its offices, becoming the first school to receive a batch of free calculators through the scheme.

Managing director Paul Hornby (pictured) returned to his former school to hand over the calculators as the ‘Calculator Club’ entered the equation.

Reflecting on his return, Hornby said: ‘A lot has changed since I first walked through the doors at The Vic many years ago, but one thing has not – the absolute importance of pupils having the learning tools they need to succeed’.

Like every school that signs up to the initiative, Ulverston Victoria has received a stock of calculators that can be kept on site and loaned to pupils throughout the academic year, helping to remove a practical barrier to learning and exam preparation.

Jessica Twyford, head of maths at the high school, said: ‘We are extremely grateful to Paul and the Hornby Foundation for supporting the school in this way.

‘Having access to the right equipment can make a significant difference to a pupil's confidence and ability to engage fully in lessons and examinations. While a scientific calculator might seem like a small thing, it is an essential tool in secondary maths education.

‘The Calculator Club will help ensure that all of our pupils have access to the resources they need to succeed, regardless of their circumstances, and that is something we warmly welcome.'

Backed by the business's charitable arm, the Hornby Foundation, the scheme has received a £4,500 funding commitment as part of its wider mission to support opportunities for young people and strengthen local communities.

Any school interested in getting involved in either initiative should, in the first instance, email [email protected] with either Calculator Club or Money Club in the subject line.

Pictured: Head of maths at UVHS, Jessica Twyford, is joined by managing director of JF Hornby & Co, Paul Hornby and pupils from UVHS