Head teachers at Dumbarton's three high schools have sent messages of support and encouragement to pupils staying at home during the Covid-19 lockdown.

The heads at Vale of Leven Academy and Dumbarton Academy and Our Lady and St Patrick’s High School urged pupils to keep learning online and stressed that qualifications will be awarded to reflect their hard work.

In line with those in the rest of the country, Dumbarton pupils have been at home since schools closed on March 20 following an order from the Scottish government.

There has been no official guidance on when schools and colleges will reopen.

Matthew Boyle, head teacher at Vale of Leven Academy, said: “I know that this has been a strange and unsettling time for families and students, however I would urge you to keep on doing what the government is asking us of us, and to keep on learning online.

"Qualifications will be awarded to reflect our students’ hard work, and those who are hoping to progress to colleges and universities will still be considered for places as usual.

"Those hoping to find work will be able to apply for posts and use the skills and qualifications they gain to shine.

"Employers, colleges and universities will be trying their hardest to make sure that everything returns to normal without disadvantaging anyone as quickly as possible.”

Alison Boyles, head teacher at Dumbarton Academy, said: “At Dumbarton Academy, we are all working hard to support our learners.

"Our young people are learning to learn in a different way and are being supported by our teachers via Google Classrooms."

Ms Boyles reassured students who were due to sit exams that the school would continue to work with SQA to ensure they gained the grades that reflected their progress during the session.

She added: "As ever, we continue to support our young people as they strive to reach their positive destinations. I hope that everyone in our school community stays safe and healthy.”

Christopher Smith, head teacher at Our Lady and St Patrick’s High School, also encouraged pupils to keep up their efforts learning online, adding: “I hope that everyone is keeping safe and well and doing their best during these difficult times.

"Please continue to take good care of yourselves and your families and remember that our school motto Uniter Deo – One Body in Christ - has never been as important as it is now."

"I am keeping you all in my prayers and we will all see each other again very soon. Take care.”