INSPIRATIONAL young sports leaders were a step ahead as they took part in multi-sports sessions held at Inverclyde Academy.

A group of teenagers from third year upwards were busy coaching all week as they work towards receiving a certificate.

They supervised kids aged five to 10 as they tried curling, boccia, archery, football and agility sports such as hurdling.

It was all organised by Inverclyde Schools Athletics and Inverclyde Athletic Club.

Gillian Hughes, active schools co-ordinator, said: "The young leaders this year have all been great at engaging with the children.

"They have been exceptional.

"Communication is the most important quality to have, they must engage with young people and be planned and organised, this week has challenged them a bit."

Gillian says the leadership programme is ideal for young people who are looking towards a career in sport.

Samantha Lamont, 14, a pupil at St Columba's High in Gourock who is on the course, said: "I really enjoy sports and I thought working with the young kids would be interesting.

"It's something I think I could do in the future and this gave me a taste of it.

"It's been really fun getting to know the kids and teaching them new skills they didn't know before."

Keen footballer Gordon MacPherson, a pupil at Inverclyde Academy, who plays for Morton in the Community, said: "It's quite exciting and it can be stressful at times, when you have to make things up on the spot on what you want to do.

"The kids are really energetic and all love it."