GREEN Newport pupils have swapped maths and English for lessons in mini-beasts and pondlife.

The seven to 11-year-olds at Gaer Junior School have been learning how to protect the environment at a special Eco-Day.

The event was held yesterday and more than 245 youngsters spent the day playing games outdoors and planting wild flowers.

Class teacher and Eco-Day organiser Mary Watkins said the children learned a lot while having fun. She said: "The feedback we've had from the pupils has been brilliant. They've really enjoyed it."

The children were split into groups and took part in various environment-based activities.

They included answering nature questions by running to a 'true' or 'false' tree in the playground.

Ms Watkins said: "They had also been making food chains, planting wild flowers and making nest boxes."

Gaer Juniors is the only school in Newport to have been awarded the Green Flag by Tidy Britain for their environmental work.

The flag is soon up for renewal and the school hoped displays made after Eco-Day will help clinch the award.

* In the picture: Pupils study pond life with the help of Eco Appraisal Officer Karen Vowles.