CHIPPENHAM NEWS: TROUBLED teenagers in Corsham are to be given a helping hand from Bath rugby stars to stop them dropping out of school.

Corsham School pupils at risk of exclusion, truancy or underachievement will be taking part in a personal development programme set up by The Prince's Trust and supported by Bath Rugby Club.

The partnership, which also involves financial services giant Zurich, will see players chat with the 14- to 16-year-olds, who will also get to attend matches.

The Prince's Trust xl clubs scheme is linked to the National Curriculum and uses rugby's team-based values to developing practical skills such as working together, motivation, organisation and leadership.

The Corsham School is being joined in the programme by Bedminster Down School and St Thomas More Catholic School in Bristol.

Bath Rugby captain Danny Grewcock said: "It's fantastic that Zurich, Bath Rugby Club and The Prince's Trust are working together to help young people. Sport can play an important role in teaching skills that are important in everyday life, such as being tolerant, motivated and getting on with others in your team.

"With the right support, we can all take pride in our achievements, whether they are in the classroom or on a playing field."

The teenagers' visits to Bath's stadium will include team-building exercises from coaches, and tag rugby tournaments. The students will have use of club facilities, such as computers for work training and conference rooms for xl club celebration days.