GOLDEN GENERATION
Eight schools across Renfrewshire make the top grade
R e n f r ews h i r e is celebrating having eight gold-level schools.
Sports-daft pupils across the area have hit the big leagues after 15 schools in the region were given a national gongs for innovation and achievement in sport.
The sportscotland School Sport Award is given to those who encourage pupils to take part in physical education and extra-curricular activities.
The region has gone from having one gold school to boasting eight as this year’s winners Arkleston Primary, Barsail Primary, Gryffe High, Bishopton Primary, Newmains Primary, Park Mains High and Ralston Primary add to Castlehead High’s gold award last year.
Stewart Har r i s, c h i e f executive of sportscotland, said: “Congratulations to staff and pupils across Renfrewshire who are putting sport and physical education right at the heart of their school and local community.
“They should be proud of this fantastic achievement.
“Along with our partners, sportscotland is committed to building a world-class sporting system for everyone, and a crucial part of that is putting young people at the centre of our efforts.
“Working with local authorities and governing bodies of sport, we are creating closer links between physical education, school sport and club sport, which benefits young people by providing more and better opportunities to take part in sport.
“It’s great to be able to recognise more schools than we ever have before. It shows that pupils, staff and parents across the country see the undoubted value in having sport as a crucial part of school life.”
Renfrewshire also has seven silver-level schools including St Andrew’s Academy, Todholm Primary, Bridge of Weir Primary School, Heriot Primary, St James’ RC Primary School, St Margaret’s Primary and Trinity High School.
The region’s two bronze-level schools are Riverbrae School and Langcraigs Primary.
They are part of a record 673 schools across Scotland that hold an award – with the number of gold- rated schools on the rise from 212 to 284.
Councillor Jim Paterson said: “We’re delighted that so many of our schools are excelling in sport and we will work hard to continue to provide the platform for them to succeed.
“It is extremely important that our young people are active, healthy and have the opportunity to try out as many sports and activities as possible.
“Congratulations to all the schools who have received an award this year for their fantastic efforts and I hope all our other schools are inspired to win next year.”