SWANAGE Middle School youngsters jumped at the chance to get some sporting tips from elite athletes.

Ben Pipes, team captain of Team GB’s men’s indoor Olympic volleyball team visited students along with team coach Joel Banks.

They put the pupils through their paces during a two-hour training session at Harrow House International College, Swanage, where the town’s new secondary school is set to open this year.

The Swanage School’s headteacher, Tristram Hobson, explained: “This was an amazing opportunity for Swanage students to find out what it means to be an elite athlete and compete internationally.

“The Swanage School is a new school which is opening its doors to students from Years 7 to 9 in September, “Whilst it hasn’t opened yet, The Swanage School was pleased to host the event.”

Twenty children, aged 10 to 12 took part – with 6ft 8ins Ben towering over them.

The Olympic captain, who is based at the Leaf Academy, Bournemouth, said he was impressed by the youngsters’ commitment.

Mr Tristram told the Echo: “After an exhausting two hours of volleyball practice in the immense sports dome at Harrow House – the temporary home for The Swanage School – Ben and Joel were able to answer questions and show clips of their Olympic matches.

“The Swanage School would like to express its appreciation to them both.”

Ben and Joel will help run a volleyball family fun day on Swanage beach in July.

Mr Tristram described the Team GB visit as the start of ‘an agenda of visiting inspirational speakers, community engagement and outstanding educational experiences’ to be offered by the new school.