A DUMBARTON school leaver admits seeing her brother thrive in his role at a successful international company convinced her she wanted to follow in his footsteps.

Emma Graham departs Our Lady and Saint Patrick's High School as one of their top pupils who could have easily gone to university.

However, after seeing her brother excel in his role with Aggreko, Emma decided that's where her future lay and secured a position within the company's Graduate Apprentice scheme.

On Tuesday, pupils across West Dunbartonshire celebrated as they look forward to their next chapter following school.

And Emma, who sat Highers in English, maths, modern studies, history and music in her final year, insists she can't wait for her next chapter.

She said: “While I’m sad to leave school, I am really excited to start my apprenticeship and attend City of Glasgow College to study Procurement and Supply.

"I feel very fortunate to have secured my apprenticeship with such a big organisation.

"I have seen my brother progress well within the company, so I decided I would like to do the same.

"I’m very grateful for the opportunity to work in a worldwide organisation and all the possibilities that will bring.

"I have been very lucky with the support I received from my teachers, especially in my final year which was quite challenging.

"But knowing they were there any time I needed them, was a great comfort and support to me.”

As well as being strong academically, Emma, 18, was also actively involved in the music department and was a regular performer in the school’s musical concerts as a singer and playing the xylophone.