Two  Newport schools will be among the first in Wales to take part in a new early years learning scheme which will allow children to spend more time learning outside the classroom.

Newport West AM Rosemary Butler has welcomed the news that Pillgwenlly Primary School and Castleton Baptist Church Playgroup will both be taking part in the project a year ahead of most schools in Wales.

The Assembly Government's new Foundation Phase for 3 - 7 year olds will give them the chance to take part in interactive learning and educational play inside and outside the classroom.

Mrs Butler said: This is all about moving away from desks and blackboards, which very often act as a disincentive for children to learn. It will help them develop their speaking and listening skills and above all it will help them enjoy their early experiences at school."

The scheme starts in September 2007.

Thursday February 8