Portlaoise College hosted its annual Evening of Excellence on Wednesday, an event dedicated to recognising the achievements of students across academics, extracurricular activities and community involvement.

For more pictures, click NEXT or ARROW. More below images.

The evening in Portlaoise featured inspiring guest speakers, the presentation of a significant new scholarship, and moments of reflection on the values that guide the school community. 

The special guest for the evening was broadcaster Katy Hannon, who shared thoughtful advice with students and families in attendance. She echoed the sentiments of past pupil Illan Dunne, encouraging students to “always say yes” to opportunities.

In her address, Katy added a particularly important message for students, especially the girls in the audience to believe in themselves yourselves and not to be afraid to put themselves forward.

Another guest speaker on the night, past pupil Shelly Whelan, spoke of her time in the school and in particular the importance of the teacher-student relationship and the impact that had on her in her time at the school. 

A highlight of the night was the presentation of the McAleese Ozanam Access Scholarship to sixth-year student Scott Duffy, who intends to study Physics at third level.

The scholarship, worth up to €4,000 annually for four years, was announced via a special recorded message from former President of Ireland, Mary McAleese.

Scott was also the recipient of Senior Awards in Chemistry and Music and was named Senior Traditional Musician of the Year earlier in the ceremony.

Principal Noel Daly commended the recipients and all students, saying, "This school, I would like to think, is not all about rules but about values. Why? Because as a school we value your effort and talent... Success is achieved by making small efforts—repeated day in and day out.” He went on to affirm the importance of individuality, participation, and wellbeing, concluding, “Happiness is an inside job.”

The night also acknowledged the achievement of two of last year's graduates who received academic entrance scholarships. Mariya Petrushkova (Trinity College Dublin) and Pavan Polassary (University College Dublin) were recognised for achieving high Leaving Certificate points and securing entrance awards at their respective universities.

Portlaoise College’s Evening of Excellence 2025 celebrated not just student accomplishments, but the values of participation, leadership and community. It was a fitting end to the academic year and a strong reminder of the potential and promise within the school’s students. 

In closing, Principal Noel Daly reminded students of the bigger picture: “Good education is a passport to a great future… Do not follow where the path will lead. Go where there is no path and create your own path for people to follow.”

List of all winners: