Congratulations: Talented Ballina student recognised for exceptional exam performance

COMMUNITY NOTES: BALLINA - WESTERN PEOPLE (MARCH 3 EDITION)

Ballina student Iarla Dunford has been recognised at a national level with the prestigious University College Dublin Entrance Scholar Award.

This annual award is presented to first-year students who achieved the highest Leaving Certificate points from schools in the Republic of Ireland, provided their score is at least 500 points, and highlights the excellence of high-achieving students entering this top Dublin university.

Wayne Walsh, the Principal of St Muredach’s College, Ballina, where Iarla sat his Leaving Certificate in 2025, congratulated the former student on his success, earned in recognition of his exceptional exam performance. Iarla achieved 100% in his Higher Level History exam, and has gone on to study English and History at UCD.

The son of Chuck and Mairead Dunford, Ballina, Iarla is a highly talented traditional and folk musician, playing bodhran, whistle and guitar. As well as serving as an active member of Bofield Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, he makes up one third of the Ballina band Alder, established last summer and already making a big impact on the folk and trad circuit in Ireland.

Former St Mary’s Secondary School student Michaela Mullaney also received the UCD Entrance Scholar Award and is currently studying Radiography at the university. Michaela was presented with her award at ceremonies that took place across three days in UCD’s O’Reilly Hall.