Graduation event for sporty pupils

SECONDARY school pupils have shown they’re real good sports – and they’ve got the graduation certificates to prove it.

Sixty teenagers took part in this year’s Renfrewshire School of Sport Education initiative, which saw them being given training for leisure and sports coaching awards and qualifications that could help them find work when they leave school, college or university.

Delivered by Renfrewshire Leisure the training programme sees pupils take part in 20 three-hour weekly training sessions.

They also have to spend time helping coach local schools and sports clubs, which leads them to being given the Saltire Award – the Scottish Government’s recognition of volunteering.

This year’s intake had their graduation ceremony at Renfrew Town Hall with the certificates being presented by Renfrewshire Leisure’s chief executive, Joyce McKellar.

Afterwards, Joyce said: “This initiative gives senior pupils the opportunity to gain valuable skills and experience that will stand them in good stead whatever they do after leaving school.
“The pupils have done extremely well this year and have learned many things including the value of teamwork and leadership as well as building their self-confidence.
“But this is just the start of their journey and I’m sure the young people will continue to make a positive impact in their communities and carry on the good work they’ve been doing this past year.”