Laois students recognised with dozens of awards at Ballinakill ceremony

Heywood Community School in Ballinakill recently held an amazing award ceremony, recognising the hard work and dedication of students in their school community.

Staff were joined by former student and reigning Rose of Tralee Katelyn Cummins, who assisted staff in handing out these well-deserved awards.

Dozens of awards were given out to students for their outstanding achievements.

See photos of the awards ceremony here.

The highly coveted Bank of Ireland Student of the Year Award went to student Valerie Mascarenhas for her academic work, engagement in class, commitment, attitude and leadership qualities.

The Brigidine Perpetual Trophy was also presented to Valerie Mascarenhas for her outstanding contribution to public speaking and debating.

The Presentation Perpetual Award for Artistic Creativity was presented to sixth year student Isabel McDonald for her talent in the arts.

The Salesian Award for Outstanding Leadership went to student Ed Slevin, who staff believed was the hallmark of initiative and diligence.

The LOETB award was presented to Jack Kennedy, who showed outstanding talent in the area of craft and workmanship.

The Comhaltas Music Awards and Perpetual Trophies were presented by teacher Julie Ann Woods to students Grace Dunne and Katie Doyle.

Student Leona O’Neill received the Outstanding Music Award and Perpetual Trophy for her contribution to the school’s musical department.

Dozens of students received certificates for completing the Pope John Paul II award, which required voluntary work within their community and the church.

Students Aoibheann Malone and Siona Lalor were recognised with the Young Scientist Awards, for their qualification in the Social and Behavioural Sciences category of the Stripe Young Scientist Awards last January.

Student Lucy Donohue was recognised for her academic achievements, earning the Leaving Certificate Highest Results award.

Student Mary Kate Drennan was also recognised for her dedication, earning the Junior Cert Award for the Highest Results.

Well done to the Heywood CS students on their fantastic achievements!