Scottish sport leadership scheme to reach 50,000 landmark

The latest round of the Lead 2014 sports leadership initiative has been launched in Scotland, with the scheme expected to reach the 50,000 landmark of participants in time for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

The programme - a partnership between sportscotland, Youth Sport Trust and Glasgow 2014 - is designed to develop the leadership skills of young people.

The intention is to use sport as a springboard to hone and develop leadership ability among young people and, in turn, provide an opportunity to engage with Glasgow 2014.

Secondary pupils (Young Leaders) are mentored at a one-day conference by university student volunteers (Student Tutors) in how to plan, organise and manage Commonwealth Games themed sports festivals for their local primary and secondary schools.

The numbers participating in Lead 2014 has risen year-on-year. In Year 1, 2011, there were six universities involved and 54 Lead 2014 festivals held with 6,924 children participating.

In 2013 there were nine universities and 141 Lead 2014 festivals involving 18,154 secondary and primary school pupils.

The peer leadership programme will continue in the same format next year as Scotland aims to use Glasgow 2014 as a platform to provide a lasting legacy.