A successful pioneering scheme to tackle underachievement and encourage more interest in sport is to be extended at a south Wales school.

Academically, Hartridge High School on the outskirts of Newport has never rated highly.

But that has begun to change with the establishment of the Newport Football Academy at the school.

Now the school plans to begin a rugby academy as well.

The academy has the backing of the Welsh Rugby Union, Newport RFC and the local authority.

The first intake of rugby students will begin in September.

The day starts with a hard training session, but it is not all play as pupils are expected to be as competitive in studying for A-levels.

Head of PE Alex Laurie said pupils at the school were already reaping rewards.

He said: "A number of the lads who were managing C,D or E grades suddenly pulled their socks up as there is an incentive for them and they have achieved some good academic results."

Pupil Andrew Thomas agreed: "I think it has boosted the confidence of the school to give it a good name. People are starting to recognise the school on a further scale."