Around 5000 children across 28 local authorities in Scotland will benefit from a fresh funding boost for the Scottish FA's Extra Time programme, run in partnership with the Scottish Government.

The Scottish Government have announced continued funding of £5.5 million for the Extra Time programme, which provides free activities clubs before school, after school and during the school holidays for primary age pupils, will support families on low incomes outwith school.

On a visit to the Hibernian Community Foundation’s Extra Time service at Abbeyhill Primary School in Edinburgh, First Minister John Swinney and Scottish FA Chief Executive Ian Maxwell saw how the programme is helping parents to get into and stay in work or training, or increase their working hours.

First Minister John Swinney: “We know that families greatly value the services provided through the Extra Time Programme, which extend the school day, helping parents enter and sustain employment.

“The clubs are also hugely popular with children, enabling them to take part in football and other activities, learn new skills and access healthy food - helping improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

“The Scottish Government has supported the successful delivery of the programme through grassroots football clubs and trusts across the country, working closely with schools and community organisations.

“This is an excellent example of how we are improving outcomes for families and delivering on my priorities for Scotland - tackling poverty and growing our economy.”

Ian Maxwell, Chief Executive, Scottish Football Association: "Today's announcement of continued funding for the Extra Time programme is a clear sign of the success of the initiative, and that in partnership with our network of clubs and trusts, we can only look to strengthen it moving forward.

“While this programme is based within football clubs, the health and education benefits to the children and families who participate show that the positive effects of Extra Time are felt throughout communities, with football clubs at the heart of them. The power of football is being felt across the country and is making a tangible difference to people across Scotland.

"This continued investment from the Scottish Government, which we are extremely grateful for, allows our clubs to continue to bring Extra Time to life. It's a hugely worthwhile programme and something we’re delighted to be involved in.”

The full 2025 Extra Time Evaluation Report can be read here.