STEPPING into Newport RFC's changing-room and seeing the black and amber shirts with their famous names on the back is thrilling enough.

But for pupils taking part in the club's exciting new scheme it becomes an even more memorable experience.

Newport RFC is once again leading the way with an innovative educational project - its Second Half scheme for schools throughout South-East Wales.

A suite overlooking the rugby ground is transformed into a classroom for the day as the children work on their Tommy the Tiger's Work-Out Book.

The workbook was designed by the club's education officer, Phil James, presently on a secondment from Malpas Court Primary School.

"The purpose is to improve key skills in numeracy, literacy and IT," he explained. The children also use computers installed by Newport county borough council, who are supporting the project.

Lights, sound and action make the Virtual Changing Room Experience a special part of the visit to Rodney Parade as the children can imagine they are waiting to go out on the field before a big game.

Captain Simon Railuwi gives a powerful "team talk" on a large screen with a lesson for life, as well as sport, to give everything their best shot.

For Year Five pupils at St Woolos Primary School another highlight was the chance to interview Newport centre and Welsh international Jason John Hughes.

The children, who pretended to be Argus journalists, were clearly impressed by the 25-year-old, who answered all their questions and then signed their work books. "He's wicked," declared Aafiah Saddiq.

Second Half is the brainchild of the club's communications director Phil Davies. "The driving forces behind Newport RFC - Tony Brown, Keith Grainger and myself - are all completely like-minded. We want to use our resources, wherever practicably possible, to bring benefit to the broader community."

It follows on from the success of Gateway Rugby, which has introduced thousands of youngsters throughout South-East Wales to the game of rugby.

*PICTURED: Nailah Ali and Michael Talbot, both ten, in the changing room.