That’s because today is the culmination of a year of hard work, as exam results were issued for pupils across the country.

At Dumbarton Academy, pupils arrived early this morning to pick up and/or celebrate their results with staff and fellow pupils.

As well as higher exams, pupils also received the first results for the new National 3, 4 and 5 exams which have replaced Intermediate and Standard Grades.

Speaking to the Reporter, 15-year-old Jordan Moore — who is about to start fifth year — said he was delighted with his results. He said: “I got three As and three Bs, I was very nervous when I got them by email this morning but pleased when I saw the results. I’m staying on for fifth and sixth year and then hope to study engineering.

His fellow soon-to-be fifth year pupil Alex Robertson, 15, shared Jordan’s delight. She said: “I got three As and a C in English, Music, PE and Spanish — I got what I wanted. I’m going to come back for fifth and sixth year and then hopefully go to uni to study psychology.” Grant More, 16, added: “I got five As and a B, I’m relieved that I did well, it’s what I was looking for. I’m coming back for fifth and sixth year and I want to go onto Biomedical Engineering.” Helplines are available for pupils, with the SQA candidate advice for questions about certificates on 0345 213 1000 until Friday.

Skills Development Scotland is also offering advice on pupils’ future on 0808 100 8000.