Families feeling a financial squeeze over the school holidays have described as a “Godsend” an ambitious programme of activities for children in Yoker.

Up to 70 kids are flocking every weekday to the Clyde Campus in Hawick Street to enjoy a range of skills, from yoga and dancing to cycling and playing the guitar.

Lunch is also served – totally free of charge – to the youngsters and parents, with staff catering for up to 140 every day.

The “summer playscheme with a difference” is a joint partnership between St Brendan’s Primary and Clyde Primary who have just completed their first year together at the campus.

The club was seen as a priority need within the community and complements work taking place in school to close the gap between poverty and attainment.

It also helps parents whose kids would normally have school meals and who cannot afford to pay for leisure activities.

The project is being led by Joanne Smith, family engagement officer at Clyde Primary, and Charlene Anderson from the Dumbarton Road Corridor Youth Project.

Joanne told the Post it was not just about giving the children activities, it was also about teaching them skills.

She said: “The number of people who have learned to ride a bike is now into double figures, including two mums and a three-year-old boy.”

Joanne said the children are also being taught DJ skills, how to make their own music, face painting, family yoga, dancing and guitar.

She added: “It’s good to see them sitting down with parents for a nutritious, healthy meal.

“We include food that is different to what they are used to and explain about the ingredients so the kids can see what went into each dish.

“Boxes of food to take away are also given to families who are feeling the pinch financially.

“Parents are now coming along to lead some of the sessions and we even had a dad coming in to show off some magic tricks.

“For this to happen at the end of the campus’s first year is brilliant.

“It is breaking down barriers and helping to build relationships.

“We are definitely going to finish the first year on a high.”

Mum Julie Herbert, whose two children Rebecca, 11, and Nathan seven, attend the club said: “The kids love it – and it is definitely a Godsend to families who are are a bit short of cash.”

Joanne thanked Fareshare Glasgow for the “endless supply of free fruit and snacks” and Dumbarton Road Corridor environment trust for supplying free bikes, helmets, cycle lessons and workshops.

She said: “The lunches are provided by Stuart at Knightswood Community Cafe. These can be feeding in the region 140 each day as parents, children, siblings eat together as a family then take part in a family activity such as a quiz and talent show.

“It is more than just a playscheme. It is unique, whereby it offers a different family approach giving opportunities to learn, share, spend time together and develop as a family.

“It also builds links between education and home.”