After three years within the School of Football programme at Vale of Leven Academy, it was time for the ten S3 pupils that were the first participants within the school to graduate. 

In partnership, the school and West Dunbartonshire Leisure Football Development put together a programme to make it a day to remember for the pupils. The day started with a trip to Hampden to enjoy the Hampden Experience tour in which pupils and staff got to see behind the scenes at Scotland’s National Stadium and learn about the history of the beautiful game in our country. 

After an enjoyable trip to Hampden it was back to school for their graduation ceremony in which the pupils family and friends were invited to attend, to recognise their achievements and commitment to the programme. 

The pupils were presented with their certificates from newly appointed Manager of Dumbarton FC , Stevie Aitken, who also had a few words to say on the importance of programmes such as the School of Football that the Scottish FA have introduced and the skills and qualities that these pupils can use both in and out of Football.

The day culminated in a staff versus pupils match in which the pupils showed how much they had developed on the park by coming out on top in a very enjoyable game.

West Dunbartonshire Leisure Football Development Officer, Kenny McComish said: “Today was a fantastic way of recognising the commitment that these pupils have given to the School of Football programme here at Vale of Leven Academy over the last three years. 

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank Stevie Aitken for attending the graduation ceremony, in what is an extremely busy time of year for him”