Laois students secure college scholarships ahead of return to school
Rafaels Zemvalds is photographed with his proud parents Laura and Ivars as he received his scholarship from Portlaoise College Deputy Principals Patrick Travers and Mary Marum.
THERE was huge excitement among incoming students on the build up to Portlaoise College’s annual announcement of it scholarship awards.
As in previous years the college announced two exceptional incoming students who were awarded the prestigious Entrance Scholarships.
The first of this year’s scholarship recipient was Rafaels Zemvalds, a former pupil from Portlaoise Educate Together.
The second was Mila Broomfield, who attended Saint Paul’s National School in Mountmellick.
The highly competitive scholarships are valued at up to €1,100 and include a range of benefits, such as school uniform and a tablet.
Speaking about the awards college Principal Noel Daly said: “These scholarships recognise not only academic excellence, but also the potential and promise we see in each of these young students.
“We are thrilled to welcome Rafaels and Mila to Portlaoise College and look forward to supporting them as they begin their journey with us.”
He said the Entrance Scholarships are awarded annually to high-performing incoming first-year students and reflect Portlaoise College’s commitment to nurturing talent and rewarding achievement. The prestige of the award was further highlighted when the students were invited to the school’s recent Evening of Excellence which was hosted by RTÉ’s Katy Hannon.
Both students will begin their secondary education at the college in August, joining a growing community known for its academic ambition and inclusive ethos.
