Primary pupils across Glasgow are to be encouraged to play more as part of plans to raise attainment and achievement in the classroom.

Over the next year, 30 primary schools will take part in the Go2Play Active Play Programme with games packs developed specifically for their school community.

The move, in partnership with Inspiring Scotland and third sector organisations PEEK (Possibilities for Each and Every Kid) and The Jeely Piece Club, forms part of Glasgow's Improvement Challenge.

Celia Tennant, CEO of Inspiring Scotland, said: “We have been developing new approaches in the play sector through the Go2Play fund since 2009.

Read more: Glasgow secondary gears up for national youth poetry slam

“Active play is a tried and tested model that helps both physical and academic attainment in children and has been developed through our close working relationship with our charity partners PEEK and Jeely Piece and Strathclyde University.

“We are delighted that Glasgow City Council Education Department has commissioned this programme throughout the city for the Improvement Challenge.

“We can’t wait to see the results.”

Research suggests that play improves attention in the classroom, as well as confidence and skills in physical activity.

It also encourages children to try new things and increases the chance of progression into sports and clubs.

Teachers in each of the schools will undergo training as part of the project, while "play champs" will also be introduced in a whole school approach to Scotland’s attainment challenge.

Bailie Liz Cameron, Executive Member for Children, Young People & Lifelong Learning said she is excited about the project which she hopes will improve the lives of children in Glasgow.

She said: “I am passionate about doing all that we can to improve the life chances of each and every one of Glasgow’s children.

Read more: Glasgow secondary gears up for national youth poetry slam

“The research about play having a positive impact on raising attainment is very encouraging and active play will be firmly embedded in Glasgow’s Improvement Challenge over the next few years.

“The Glasgow Active Play programme is about early intervention – changing the mind-sets of parents and children early leads to greater physical activity later in life, going outdoors more and leading a healthier life – all through play.

“Anyone can play!”