A huge audience, an exciting atmosphere and a wonderful special guest in the form of former Rose of Tralee Maria Walsh all added up to a cracking night for Portlaoise College’s annual awards.
Maria Walsh gave an inspiring address to the packed crowd.
Coming to the public’s attention when she won the 2014 Rose of Tralee competition was really only a small part of her story.
Maria’s message for young people was strong, her speech full of humour and wit.
The awards came thick and fast then, a wide range of achievements from subjects to extra-curricular, the big winners on the night were the 6th years.
Caoimhe Grant picked up the student of the year award, Fionn Marum, well known for his athletics exploits picked up the leadership award and the exceptional student award went to Agnieska Czerwik.
As if all that wasn’t enough the roof was nearly lifted off the school when soon to be retired teacher PJ McEvoy received a standing ovation following a glowing tribute from principal Noel Daly.
Thanks to teacher John Murphy for sending these pictures our way:
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