A NEW type of sports teaching for under fives has been successfully pioneered at Lavington Pre-School by Pewsey soccer trainer Matthew Rushton.

It's believed to be the first time that children under school age have been taught ball skills as part of a pre-school curriculum.

After Mr Rushton, a professional football trainer and referee, approached the pre-school, it was decided to put his novel ideas to the test.

The three to five-year-olds who attend Lavington Pre-school at Dauntsey's Aided Primary School in West Lavington have been taught a variety of basic ball skills by Mr Rushton, who runs regular soccer workshops for children.

Supervisor Catherine Clifton said the pre-school held a trial session before inviting Mr Rushton to provide ten weeks' tuition for the children.

The sessions are designed to teach general ball skills including balance, patience, eye-hand co-ordination, stamina and teamwork.

Mrs Clifton said: "As a result of this, their self esteem and confidence has really shown an improvement." The scheme has been such a success that Mr Rushton has already been booked to return for another ten days in the autumn term.

He said: "Some of them showed real talent ."