ACTORS helped the University of Wales College, Newport, set the stage for Gwent school pupils.

A theatrical group put on a play at the Caerleon campus to encourage more pupils to consider the benefits of higher education.

CragRats performed to more than 180 pupils, aged 14 and 15, from Bettws, Duffryn, Hartridge, Lliswerry, Abersychan and Fairwater schools.

The play was commissioned as part of UWCN's Aiming Higher project targeted at young people who might not consider higher education as an option when leaving school.

During the performance, and following workshops, the actors explored preconceptions about higher education. The visiting pupils were also given a tour of the campus.

*PICTURED: From left, Matthew Birdand, Marcus Pritchard, of CragRats, with Leighton Cox, Nina Trounce, Jamie Smith and Carrie Burgoyne.