Hundreds of pupils in West Dunbartonshire are benefiting from non-traditional learning opportunities.

As well as academic courses, senior phase pupils have the opportunity to complete foundation apprenticeships and courses throughout the year.

These include music, performance arts, and many more.

These initiatives are designed to improve their knowledge, skills, and experience, aligning more closely with the type of career they plan to pursue.

This means that more pupils are gaining non-traditional awards alongside their traditional qualifications.

Councillor Clare Steel, the council's education spokesperson and chair of the educational services committee, said: “I was delighted to learn that as well as our young people doing well with traditional subjects and qualifications, we also have a wide range of bespoke courses that they can do which not only recognises their academic qualifications but also allows them to gain knowledge and skills that can better prepare them for a future career but also help them to build their confidence by attaining additional relevant qualifications."

She highlighted the importance of these courses for young people who prefer a more practical approach to learning, as they provide a closer alignment with the workplace.

Councillor John Millar, vice convener of education, said: "What has changed in recent years is the variety of courses that the schools could offer, for example, foundation apprenticeships are offered at the same level as higher and Nat 5, but instead of coursework and a high stakes final exam, coursework is a key component assessed throughout the year and forms part of the final award.

"Crucially the method of teaching is different, with work placements forming part of the course.

"The result is that young people can easily see how learning is applied in real life contexts, and not just in a theoretical sense."