Moray primary schools have been enjoying the opportunity to take part in a Scottish Water and SPFL Trust backed scheme on the importance of drinking water.
Community Coaches at Elgin City FC have been delivering the H2-O programme in Moray, a national scheme that was launched in Fife last week and endorsed by former Scottish international Gary Naysmith.
The H2-O programme focuses on the relationship between water, hydration and physical activity, and combines a physical and mental workout for pupils, emphasising the importance of staying hydrated and physically active.
Sessions are delivered by professional club community football coaches affiliated with the Scottish Professional Football League.
These are split into two parts and involve a 40-minute interactive classroom based session focusing on ‘The Water Cycle’ and ‘Our Bodies and Water’; followed by a 40-minute physical activity session.
Naysmith said: “This is a great education programme of real value to young people and I am confident it will be a great success.
“More than ever we have to ensure that we get the message across that exercise and hydration are essential parts of a healthy lifestyle.
“Doing it at this level, when young people are at a critical stage in their development, is a great idea. I’m proud to stand side-by-side with Scottish Water and the SPFL trust in launching the H2-O programme.”
Moray sessions have been delivered by two SFA qualified and fully PVG checked Elgin City Community football coaches.
Each pupil is given a goodie bag to take away with them which will include a certificate, water bottle and a voucher for a free family ground match ticket to a game at Elgin City (Subject to availability).
A spokesman for Elgin City FC Community Football said: “Elgin City are really excited about this pilot as we know that ‘water’ is a key part of Curriculum for Excellence and that young people love a visit from their local football club.”