Bright Laois student secures third scholarship

Former Portlaoise College student Scott Duffy has continued his academic success with further recognition at university level.

Scott, who last year became the first recipient of Portlaoise College’s Mary McAleese Ozanam Scholarship, is now studying Physics at University College Dublin. In recognition of his Leaving Certificate results, he recently received an Entrance Scholarship from the university.

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The award ceremony was attended by Noel Daly, Principal of Portlaoise College. Scott is also due to receive the prestigious JP McManus Scholarship, which will further support his studies in the years ahead.

Mr Daly said the school community was delighted to see Scott’s continued success.

“Scott’s achievements reflect his dedication to his studies and the contribution he made to school life during his time here. It was a privilege to attend the ceremony in UCD, and I look forward to attending the ceremony in UL to see his work recognised at that level,” he said.

Scott returned to Portlaoise College this week to work with the school’s guidance department, speaking to a number of classes about his experience of school and the transition to university. This included a session with fifth-year Physics students, during which he outlined the academic expectations of the course and the supports available at third level.

Head of Guidance at the school, Daryl Egan, said current students benefited from hearing directly from a recent past pupil.

“It is valuable for students to hear from someone who was in their position only a short time ago. Scott spoke in a clear and practical way about preparing for university and managing the transition from school to third level,” he said.