Neil Roberts, who works at both Rhymney and Heolddu Comprehensive Schools, has been recognised by the Sports Council for Wales for his efforts to get young people fit and active.

Named 5x60 Officer of the Month for October, Neil is just one of the motivators recruited by the Sports Council for Wales’ 5x60 scheme, which is funded by the Welsh Assembly Government.

Supported locally by Caerphilly County Borough Council, it is designed to get more secondary school pupils taking part in 60 minutes of physical activity five times a week.

The 29-year-old from Maesycwmmer, near Caerphilly – a former South Wales schools 800m champion - has persuaded scores of pupils to get off the sidelines and take part in 5x60 sessions.

He has been in post for nearly two years and has introduced a vast number of extra-curricular activities in that time with tag rugby, football, badminton and street dance proving most popular.

He explains, "5x60 has a huge role to play in inspiring pupils to partake in sport. I feel in Caerphilly, we have made a positive impact amongst the community, with some clubs reporting increased levels of participation due to the school to club links being created."

"From a school approach, teachers have reported far less incidents around school while 5x60 activities are taking place, and also noticing better behaviour in some individuals that often take part."

Phil Hurd, Head of PE at Rhymney Comprehensive School said, "With over 25 years experience teaching physical education, the 5x60 initiative has had the greatest influence on participation rates. It has been really exciting to see all abilities attempting new activities. Our 5x60 Officer, Neil, has had a very positive effect on increasing participation rates."

And the pupils are championing their 5x60 Officer as well.

Nikita Price, year 8 pupil at Rhymney Comprehensive School, said:

"Since I started comprehensive school I have been taking part in street dance and I am now taking exams in dance classes out of school. Neil is a good 5x60 Officer, he comes and sees us in assemblies and tries to get people interested. I enjoy and take part in most activities, especially Danish longball and street dance!"

Delighted with the success of the programme, Chair of the Sports Council for Wales, Philip Carling, said:

"The Sports Council for Wales’ 5x60 scheme is proving successful in tempting pupils off the sidelines and into sport. Activities like cheerleading, street dance and Frisbee golf are encouraging even the most reluctant and act as a gateway to other more traditional sports and an active lifestyle."