Launched this spring, the Glasgow 2026 Schools Programme is inviting every school and youth organisation in Scotland to get inspired, get active and get involved as Glasgow prepares to welcome athletes from 74 Commonwealth nations and territories. Designed to be inclusive and accessible, the programme supports learners of all ages and stages, with flexible activities that can be delivered in classrooms, assemblies, playgrounds and youth settings. 

The programme offers a wide range of hands-on learning resources, creative projects and leadership opportunities. Pupils can explore the cultures of the Commonwealth, take on leadership roles within their schools, connect with Team Scotland athletes and take part in Games themed challenges. All resources are fully funded and curriculum linked, developed in partnership with organisations including Sports Governing Bodies, Sporting Memories, the British Council, Youth Sport Trust, Glasgow City Council and the Royal Commonwealth Society. 

The resources will also play an important role to ensure the legacy of Glasgow 2026 is realised long after the final medal is awarded. The power of this lasting impact is demonstrated by Glasgow primary teacher, Jacqueline Hart. Inspired by her performance at the Glasgow 2014 opening ceremony before taking part in Active East, a legacy programme that created meaningful opportunities for young people in Glasgow’s East End, Jacqueline is delighted to see the Games return to Glasgow. Now as a primary teacher using the Glasgow 2026 resources, Jacqueline is inspiring a new generation, bringing the excitement and opportunity into her classroom ahead of the Games. 

To mark three months to go, the Glasgow 2026 Schools team visited St John Paul II Primary School in Castlemilk to see the Schools Programme in action. Pupils are among the first to experience Finnie’s brand new ‘Brain Break’ video, a fun, inclusive and high energy introduction to every Glasgow 2026 sport and Para sport, designed to bring the excitement of the Games into classrooms, youth spaces and living rooms. 

Finnie leading her Brain Break video

Photography Glasgow 2026

The visit is supported by Cameron Lynn, a Team Scotland Gymnast who competed at Birmingham 2022 and hopes to secure his spot representing his country at Glasgow 2026. Cameron is a big advocate for young people participating in sport and who during his visit shared his personal sporting journey with pupils, encouraging them to dream big, try new activities and follow their ambitions as the Games approach. 

Phil Batty OBE, Chief Executive Glasgow 2026, said: “The Glasgow 2026 Schools Programme is really bringing the Games to life in classrooms and youth settings across Scotland.  

It's important that Scotland's young people feel part of these Games and the Glasgow 2026 Schools Programme is a great way of making that happen. The programme gives young people the opportunity to learn about the cultures that make up the Commonwealth, increase participation in sport and encourages healthy habits. 

“The resources have been designed to flex for all learners and settings, and they reflective the vision for these Games. With the largest ever Para sport medal programme in games history, it’s brilliant to see that these resources champion that ambition.” 

“As we continue to build on the success of 2014, Jacqueline’s powerful story highlights the importance of creating a new legacy that connects for both Glasgow and the wider Commonwealth. 

Jacqueline Hart, Class Teacher and former Glasgow 2014 performer said:  

“It’s amazing to have the Games back in Glasgow. The last time they were here, I remember there being so much to get involved in and the Glasgow 2026 Schools Programme is a great way of getting children involved in the Games. 

"It's really important that children are part of Glasgow 2026, especially when it’s happening in their own city. For my pupils at this ASN unit, learning about the Para sport programme is especially meaningful. They get to see athletes who are just like them competing at an elite level and that kind of visibility is really inspiring for them. 

"The resources are so simple and ready to use, which is a huge help for teachers at such a busy time of year. The children have absolutely loved them and you can feel how excited they are that the Games are coming." 

Cameron Lynn, Scottish Gymnast and Team Scotland hopeful said: 

“Getting the opportunity to come and visit one of the amazing schools in Glasgow really fills me with pride. My sporting journey has been quite varied, I tried lots of different sports when I was younger before eventually landing on gymnastics and I was lucky to have teachers and a school that were always very supportive of that. 

“Now I get to use those experiences to create some fun outside the gym, chatting with children and young people about the sports they’re passionate about makes it super special to be part of.  

“Before making my debut at Birmingham 2022, Glasgow 2014 was and still is a core memory for me. It was such a unique and inspiring experience and I think Glasgow 2026 will do the same again this summer.” 

Schools and youth organisations can download all Glasgow 2026 Schools Programme resources free of charge at glasgow2026.com/schools. 

Tickets for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games are on sale now via the Glasgow 2026 website - glasgow2026.tmtickets.co.uk. For group bookings of more than 10 people, schools are encouraged to use the dedicated group booking form available on the ticketing page.