Visits to Active Schools programmes across East Ayrshire have more than doubled in the most recent academic year, according to new data.
Statistics published by Scotland’s national agency for sport, sportscotland, show significantly increased participation levels across the academic year of 2022/23.
This includes over 145,445 visits to Active Schools sessions in East Ayrshire, a rise on 2021/22's 43,859 visits.
The number of participants, sessions, deliverers, and club/school links also increased over the same period.
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According to the numbers, the number of participants increased from 3,878 to 6,922, while the number of sessions rose from 2,350 to 5,715.
Councillor Jim McMahon, East Ayrshire Council’s cabinet spokesperson for housing, transport and communities, said: "East Ayrshire has always had a strong sporting heritage that Active Schools has been embedded in since its introduction in 2005.
"Our Active Schools team has been invaluable in regenerating the sporting landscape in East Ayrshire, working closely with our schools and community organisations to provide high quality opportunities for those with an interest in sport and developing pathways to get the inactive active.
"Following the pandemic, Active Schools has played a pivotal role in engaging people of all ages across East Ayrshire to get back into sport.
"This has not just been about participation, but also supporting the development of volunteers, clubs, access to funding and coach development in partnership with our East Ayrshire Sports Council and Community Sports Hubs."
The Cumnock and New Cumnock Councillor added: "Since the full return to sport, our Active Schools have supported 45 per cent of our school pupils back into sport and physical activity, which is higher than the Scottish national average.
"It’s encouraging to see such a significant increase in the number of our young people taking part in so many Active Schools activities before and after school, during lunchtime, and in the community over the past year.
"The increase in opportunities created for our young people to take part in sport and physical activity can only benefit their long-term health and wellbeing, both physically and mentally."
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Sports minister Maree Todd said: “It’s fantastic that Active Schools participation has risen significantly since last year.
"This important programme provides children with opportunities to take part in sport before, during and after school.
"That’s why the Scottish Government and sportscotland are working together to ensure that Active Schools programmes will be free for all children and young people by the end of this Parliament.”
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