IT WAS a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a group of Saints-mad schoolchildren.

Thirty pupils from Newlands Primary School in Millbrook swapped their regular PE lesson for a surprise trip to Southampton FC’s Staplewood training ground, for a footballing masterclass.

Virgin Media, the team’s official shirt sponsor, worked with the club to grant the youngsters unprecedented access to the ground – usually reserved for players and staff.

The school was chosen to take part in the activity due to children being such avid Saints fans.

Club mascot Sammy the Saint broke the news to the youngsters, aged between 9 and 11, that they would be given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to train on the same pitch as their heroes.

But that wasn’t all.

After arriving at Staplewood, the class were handed the club’s new kit which they were able to take home.

Jez Harris, PE co-ordinator at Newlands, said: “It was an unbelievable experience, not only for the 30 lucky pupils but also the adults supervising. From the coach that brought us to Staplewood to the brand new kits for all the pupils, the magic of the day was etched on all the faces of the children.

“We are incredibly thankful to Southampton Football Club and Virgin Media for the opportunity to create these lifelong memories with our children, and to finish our school year with such an amazing celebration of hard work and unity.”

Led by Saints Foundation, the official charity of Southampton FC, the kids received expert tuition and were put through their paces with high-speed drills, taught tips and tricks, and then played a number of matches.

The company organised the event as part of its ongoing commitment to the Southampton community to show that it is a different type of football sponsor and is on the side of fans.

Dylan, aged 10, from Newlands Primary School, said: “It was a really great and fun day. It was good to play at the Saints training ground – a great once-in-a-lifetime event.

Brigitte Trafford, from Virgin Media, added: “Ahead of the new season, we wanted to give these young Saints fans a day to remember with an unforgettable visit to the Staplewood training ground.

“It was really heart-warming to see the kids’ reactions as they played on the same pitch as their heroes.

“We’re on the side of all football fans, young and old, and we’ll continue to be behind supporters as the new season kicks off next week.”

Saints kick off their Premier League campaign at home to Swansea on Saturday.