THE NEW academic year may only be a few weeks old but already thoughts are turning to next September and the move to secondary school.

Both Chepstow and Wyedean schools held open evenings last week which each attracted hundreds of prospective students for next year and their parents.

The open evenings act as shop windows for the schools hoping to persuade parents to send their children.

Departments at the schools pulled out all the stops to make their subjects as fun and memorable as possible.

Science experiments were popular and there were exhibitions by musicians and dancers.

For subjects that could not rely on explosive showstoppers such as those found in the science labs, there were attractions such as food and games.

Visitors to Chepstow School were given an insight into school life with a film conceived, directed and starring students.

•See this week's Chepstow & Caldicot News for more photographs!