A BARRY school has been awarded a substantial grant from a national banking chain. St Richard Gwyn Roman Catholic High School has been given £5,000 by Barclays New Futures, a national award for citizenship projects.

All winning projects are student-led, helping to develop skills for life and work.

The pupils will now use the money to support a Healthy Living project, starting next September.

Assistant head teacher Debra Thomas said: "The course works closely with the national curriculum, and also includes the surrounding community.

"It is designed for less academic pupils, as it has a very strong practical and hands-on nature."

The course will involve planning physical activities for an after-school club.

All the preparation will be done in the classroom, including writing letters and planning the meals and exercises.

Assistant head teacher Hywel Owen added: "There will hopefully be the option of two nights available for the project. One will be quite active, and the other more sedate.

"After the activity, there will be a talk either from the pupils, or from outside agencies, like the British Heart Foundation.

"Then a cafe will open for refreshments.

"The pupils will have to plan the menu, which will again reinforce the healthy lifestyle." People connected to or living near the school will be invited to take part in the workshop, helping to improve lifestyles, and strengthen community links.

Mr Owen added: "South Wales has one of the highest incidences of heart disease in the UK.

"Our school is situated in an area of social deprivation so providing education, exercise and a healthy diet for all in the community will raise the quality of life."

The Barclays New Futures Award for Citizenship Projects helps schools all over Britain realise their plans for a range of imaginative community projects.

For more information telephone 020 7221 7883