Laois school awards Entrance Scholarships

Portlaoise College has awarded 2025 Entrance Scholarships to two exceptional students. 

This year’s recipients are Rafaels Zemvalds, a pupil at Portlaoise Educate Together, and Mila Broomfield, who attends St Paul’s N.S. in Mountmellick. 

Rafaels was photographed with his proud parents, Laura and Ivars, as he received his scholarship from Deputy Principals Patrick Travers and Mary Marum. Mila was joined by her parents, Unathi and Darren, for the presentation of her award by Principal Noel Daly and Deputy Principal Mary Marum.

The highly competitive scholarships are valued at up to €1,100 and include a range of benefits, such as school uniform and a tablet.

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.” 

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, 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.