Laois students rewarded with great Leaving Cert results says principal

Clonaslee College welcomed former sixth year students through the door for the last time on Friday, August 25 for Leaving Cert Day.

A week earlier than in 2022, teachers and staff were eager to see if the students’ hopes and dreams to pursue their chosen path in further education or career would now become a reality

The Leaving Cert class of 2023 were invited in for refreshments and a chance to meet their teachers, class tutors, year head and guidance counsellor. Suzanne McMahon, Principal and John Lee, Deputy Principal were also eager to welcome the return of each student and celebrate their achievements with them. 

A statement said the school enjoys an exemplary academic reputation, with students performing annually extremely well in both the Junior and Leaving Certificates. Past alumni have continued to be successful in their chosen fields of study and careers. This year’s cohort of students also performed extremely well.

Top achievers in 2023 were Hazel Conroy and  Mary Grehan secured over 550 points. Ellen Conroy and Faith Dunne scored over 500 points. Many students achieved just shy of 500 points. Overall, over 9% of the candidates secured in excess of 500 points, 30% over 400 points and 46% over 300 points.  

The principal Suzanne McMahon was delighted that the results achieved were excellent in light of the challenge of the pandemic over the last two years. She said the teachers received high praise and gratitude from the students.

“It is great to see a high turnout of students to the school and that the hard work has paid off for all the students, with all achieving their full potential,” she said. 

The principal is particularly proud of all of the staff including ancillary and SNAs who all worked collaboratively to support students in achieving their full potential. 

Clonaslee College said it embodies the Education and Training Board ethos in striving to achieve excellence in education, alongside the other core values of respect, care, community and equality. The statement added that Clonaslee College is very proud of its inclusive and holistic culture where all students are valued and respected.