Thursday June 11th 2026
Children from five schools come together at Nethercraigs to take part in a programme combining football while learning (image: South Ayrshire Council)
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Sarah Hilley
World cup excitement in Glasgow school children is being capitalised on to combine football with learning new facts in the south side.
About 250 children from five schools gathered at Nethercraigs Sports Complex today in Corkerhill to practice their skills and share what they have learned in the build up to the game with Haiti.
The approach has had results with one child who struggled to engage in the class room enthusiastically taking part in the football themed lessons.
The work saw sports leaders from Cardonald Primary and other schools passing on information as they count down the days until the Scotland team kick off.
Cardonald Primary pupil Zac, 11, said: “I’m looking forward to it a lot. I think we are going to get to the round of 16.”
Bethany, 11, said: “We are a really good team. This Scotland team are the best there has been.”
Eilidh, 12, shared her research into digital addiction as part of the UEFA Take Care Programme, which uses the power of football to promote healthier lifestyles and positive habits. She spoke about alternatives to screen time including drawing, music and board games.
Eilidh said: “I chose digital addiction as it is a topical subject. Football gets you off the phone. Many people are on their phones. Ninety three per cent of people in the UK have a phone by the age of 12.”
The primaries local to Pollok United taking part were St.Marnock’s Mosspark, St.Bernard’s, Gowanbank and Cardonald.
Principal teacher Diane Strang described the UEFA programme as a “super resource” and said it also has “tips for parents.”
Bailie Soryia Siddique came along to see the work taking place.
Councillor Siddique said: “It is a fantastic event. Well done to all the kids. We look forward to seeing Scotland win. It is great seeing the learning taking place and good to see girls playing football.”
Active schools co-ordinator Claire Clark said the event is about learning through football.
She pointed out it helps enable some learners who would struggle in a classroom setting to become more engaged.
Claire gave an example of one boy who loved the research as it was linked to football.
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