Fitness first
PUPILS in East Renfrewshire are receiving their target two hours of physical education a week — unlike those in 28 other local authorities.
ERC is only one of four councils reaching the target set by the Scottish government in 2007.
Only 35 per cent of primary schools and 23% of secondaries are being offered two hours of PE a week.
All seven of ERC's secondaries hit the target.
Education convener, councillor Alan Lafferty said: "We're glad to be recognised for meeting our targets.
"As well as academic success we want our children to achieve their individual best when it comes to physical activity and it's right that we work hard to achieve this."
Meanwhile, Glasgow city council is making progress towards reaching the target.
Bailie Jean McFadden, executive member of education, explained: "The council is making big strides in raising the level of physical activity during the school day and after hours.
"Glasgow is constantly looking at different ways to encourage youngsters to stay active and adopt a healthier lifestyle.
"There is hardly a sport, game or activity which children across the city have not had access to over the past few years.
"Our programme, Active Schools, is very prominent in our schools, encouraging an active lifestyle amongst youngsters by making activity fun and offering all sorts of sports and play — in the playground, sports hall and even encouraging children to walk and cycle to school".
Holyrood education secretary, Michael Russell, insisted progress was being made across all schools in the country.
He said: "We are committed to young people throughout Scotland receiving two hours quality PE every week.
"Working towards the delivery of this is embedded within Curriculum for Excellence, which will be adopted in all schools in August and all local authorities are signed up to".
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Weather for Glasgow
Thursday 09 February 2012
Today
Light rain
Temperature: 4 C to 7 C
Wind Speed: 6 mph
Wind direction: South west
Tomorrow
Light rain
Temperature: 3 C to 5 C
Wind Speed: 6 mph
Wind direction: South east
