CLEVER pupils demonstrated their brainpower when they were put to the test during the first-ever Maths Week Scotland initiative.

Classrooms across East Renfrewshire were buzzing with mathematical activities as youngsters donned their thinking caps to crack codes and solve puzzles.

St John’s Primary and St Mark’s Primary, both in Barrhead, and St Thomas’ Primary, in Neilston, were among the schools taking part in the Scottish Government scheme.

The aim of Maths Week Scotland is for all participants to “experience the benefits, joy and beauty” of the subject.

And children in East Renfrewshire most certainly did.

Students from St Luke’s High visited the three primaries to pass on some maths tips as part of the initiative, which saw kids take part in stimulating lessons inside and outside the classroom.

And, at St Thomas’ Primary, parents dropped by to discuss how they use maths in their jobs.

The P1 and P2 classes also worked closely with the village’s Madras Family Centre on maths-based outdoor games, while P7 pupils planned and led activities with younger years, including a ‘grow £10’ enterprise project.

St Thomas’ Primary pupils particularly enjoyed applying their digital skills when using iPads during an orienteering workshop.

And cookery activities involving staff and pupils from St Luke’s High taught kids how to use their problem-solving skills in the kitchen.

Councillor Paul O’Kane, East Renfrewshire’s education and equalities convener, and Margaret McCrossan, the region’s chief financial officer, were among those who visited classrooms to discuss the ways they use maths on a day-to-day basis.

Brendan Docherty, headteacher at St Thomas’ Primary, said: “Maths Week was a huge success and all of the children were inspired by the wide range of activities they were engaged in.

“It really highlighted the importance and relevance of maths in the wider world.

“We are particularly grateful to all parents and members of the community for taking time to work with the children and to Miss Conlon and Miss Walker for co-ordinating the action-packed week of activities.”