Pupils at a Monmouthshire school are learning to ride horses as part of an Assembly initiative to encourage young people to exercise.

The Equine Academy is held at Redbrook Equestrian Centre in Monmouth and gives children the chance to gain qualifications in riding and stable management.

Monmouth Comprehensive School pupils requested horse-riding as an activity last year and the academy began in January, offering 26 children aged between 11 and 13 the chance to learn equestrian.

They take classes in novice, intermediate and advanced groups and learn skills ranging from basic trotting to jumping and technical riding.

During the course children undertake tests in the practical elements of riding and stable management.

The pupils also have visits from guest speakers who teach them the basics of horse management, including how to look after them and what they need to be fed.

Classes take place after school on a weekly basis and are organised by the Sports Council for Wales as part of the 5x60 programme, which is designed to encourage secondary school pupils in Wales to take part in 60 minutes of physical activity five times a week.

Academy instructor Hayley Howells said there has been a lot of interest from pupils and they are hoping to increase the number of places offered to pupils in September.