The special project in Swaythling has been developed to benefit the children's health and to help those who may find it hard to mix with other children socially as they move from junior to secondary school in the autumn.

SNAP (Swaythling Neighbourhood Activities Project) at Cantell School will give the 10-12 year-olds from the Flowers Estate the chance to familiarise themselves with their new school and try sports that would not normally be accessible to them.

The children will get professional coaching in football, basketball and rugby.

During the week, the youngsters will receive professional sports coaching in football, basketball and rugby and will also get the chance to try street dance and photography activities.

The 70 youngsters will take part in the activities in groups lead by an adult and a 14-year-old teenage leader who is already at the school.

It's hoped that getting to know the older pupils beforehand will help the children when they start their first term in September.

Organiser Mary Deaves said: "It is exciting to provide this excellent opportunity for young people on the Flowers Estate to continue learning in an active way over the summer.

"It is hoped that SNAP will also support those who may find the transfer from junior to secondary school as a challenge."

SNAP is one of the projects in Southampton which is funded by The Neighbourhood Renewal Fund - a government grant to help tackle deprivation in the city.