AS the Countdown to Christmas hots up these youngsters have put aside their every day lessons to learn how to be Santa.

Scotland Street School Museum is inviting children to join in free Santa School workshops – just in case they ever have to stand-in for the big man in an emergency.

Although Santa will be flat out in his North Pole workshop, his trusty helpers will deliver a crash course in becoming a ‘Stand-in Santa’.

Children will make their own Santa beard, learn how to shake their bellies like bowls full of jellies and make some reindeer food.

At the end youngsters will receive a Santa School certificate and can rest easy, safe in the knowledge they can step-in if required.

And in this class rowdy renditions of ‘When Santa Got Stuck up the Chimney’ rang out as eager elves-in-waiting from Glendale Primary School paid perfect attention at the first Santa School of the season.

Many more are expected to take up the challenge in the coming weeks.

Councillor Archie Graham, chairman of Glasgow Life, said: “My advent calendar is on the kitchen worktop, tempting me every morning, but it isn’t long now until December and all the festive fun that entails.

“Even if you’re feeling a bit bah humbug, you can’t help but smile when you see the excitement on a child’s face as they talk about Santa and a much longed for present.

"This wonderful workshop is certain to raise the excitement levels higher than Rudolph flies on Christmas Eve.

"And for mums and dads, the great news is it’s free and there is no need to book.

"Just pop in when it suits, join in the fun and get into the spirit of Christmas with your little ones.”

Santa School at Scotland Street Museum will be open for business on Saturday 5, 12, 19 and Sunday 6, 13 and 20 December at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.

It is free to attend and no prior booking is required, but arrive early to avoid disappointment.

Please note Santa is staying in the North Pole and won’t attend the workshops, but his helpers will be there to make sure everyone has a great time.

For further information call 0141 287 0500 or visit www.glasgowmuseums.com.