‘Outstanding’ and historic results in Laois at Scoil Chríost Rí

Student at Portlaoise girls' secondary school achieves historic result in Leaving Cert Applied

Scoil Chríost Rí is celebrating the Class of 2026 with what it describes as an outstanding set of Leaving Certificate results which also see one student make history in Irish education.

Almost one in five students achieved 500 points or more, while one in three secured more than 450 points. The school told the Leinster Express / Laois lave that half of their ‘fantastic’ students achieved 400 points or more.

The school’s highest result was achieved by Tilly O’Donnell, who secured an excellent 556 points and hopes to study Biomedical Science. The school is very proud of Tilly and the huge amount of work she put in.

There was also considerable success in Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA), with five students achieving a Distinction. The school says it is immensely proud of our LCA programme, which it says turns out some of the most well rounded and highly successful and highly valued students.

This year’s results were particularly historic for Leah Byrne, who became one of the first students in the history of the State to receive a State-Certified Leaving Certificate Level 2.

The school describes this as a fantastic achievement for Leah, and an emotional moment for her parents as she achieved in all areas of her Leaving Certificate which paves her way for the next step of her journey in the National Learning Network.

Seán Smyth is Principal of the school on the Borris Road.

“We are immensely proud of every one of our students. These results reflect their ability, perseverance and commitment throughout their time in Scoil Chríost Rí.

“While the number of exceptionally high points is remarkable, today is about celebrating success in all its forms. The five Distinctions achieved in Leaving Certificate Applied and Leah Byrne’s historic State-Certified Leaving Certificate Level 2 are achievements of enormous significance for the students, their families and our entire school community.

“We congratulate every student and thank their teachers, SNAs, families and all those who supported them throughout their journey. We wish the Class of 2026 every happiness and success in the future,” concluded the Principal.