Pitch transformation will help school launch football programme

The upgrade work to transform the dilapidated current pitch, which was installed when the school opened almost two decades ago, will now provide fantastic outdoor opportunities for all the pupils at Mearns Primary.

And the school is also now planning to form teams at three age groups – primary 5, 6, and 7 – and will use the new pitch for training and matches.

The facility was officially opened on Friday (October 30) by East Renfrewshire Council’s Director of Education, Mhairi Shaw.

It was a poignant moment for Mrs Shaw, as this was her final official engagement before retiring and took her full circle in her career with East Renfrewshire.

Mrs Shaw said: “I was delighted to officially open the newly resurfaced pitch at Mearns Primary, which will be a real asset for all of the pupils. It was extra special to perform the duties, as my career with East Renfrewshire started at this school as Head Teacher and it’s nice to sign off here too. I will watch on with interest to see how the football teams develop at Mearns Primary, as it is a very exciting time for everyone connected with the school as they look to put in place the building blocks for a successful football programme for many years to come.”

The new teams will initially be run by parent coaches, although the school is also investing in a junior leadership programme to ensure a sustainable supply of coaches.

Three pupils from Williamwood High and Mearns Castle High will initially be supported by the school to develop their coaching and leadership skills as part of the football programme.

Mearns Primary Head Teacher Sharon Hunter said: “We are all so excited that the new pitch has been completed and can’t wait to get started with our plans. It’s a great opportunity for all our pupils and the development of the new pitch is something that’s really been driven by pupils. So many of our pupils wanted to launch school football teams and they’ve now got a facility to be proud of which will allow us to move forward with this. We can’t wait to get started.”