Summer is here and it’s a great time to head outside and get active.

We all know the importance of leading an active lifestyle, with so many health, physical and mental health benefits.

The positive impact that sport and physical activity can have on our children and young people also goes much further – and can impact in the classroom.

As well as building self-confidence and being a great way of meeting new friends, research shows that participation also improves academic performance.

Of the 5,600 East Renfrewshire pupils who were part of a recent study we carried out into participation in extra-curricular clubs and activities, more than 85% already take part.

And we’re committed to increasing this even further.

One of our most successful schemes is our holiday sports programme, which offers a wide range of activities for children of all ages, from our popular week-long multi-sports camps to daily sports activities.

The week-long catered sports camps are an ideal way for children to meet new friends, learn new skills whilst enjoying a healthy lunch. They are delivered by experienced sports coaches and operate from the new Barrhead High School and Eastwood High Sports Centre throughout the summer holidays.

Free places are available and information can be obtained by visiting www.ercultureandleisure.org/concessions for the eligibility criteria.

Separate to the specific sports camps, our regular holiday sports activity programme, which is held in venues across the area throughout July and August, also provides free places to eligible children to ensure there are no barriers to getting involved.

With everything from football to gymnastics and badminton to dodgeball and hockey, I would urge children and young people to sign up and try something new this summer. Book online at www.ercultureandleisure.org/activities or call 0141 577 3008.

We’re also pleased that the £2.2million refurbishment of the Barrhead Foundry swimming pool, health suite and changing rooms is progressing well.

Our customers have been so patient during this work and we look forward to being able to unveil the revamped facilities towards the end of the year.

For those who are looking for something more energetic over the summer months, I’m delighted that our new bootcamp fitness class, which meets every Saturday at 9.30am in Eastwood Park, is continuing to go from strength to strength. Why not give it a try and commit to getting more active this summer?

Anthony McReavy is chief executive of East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure Trust