Celebrations as Waterford student secures flawless Leaving Cert score with maximum points

A Waterford student is celebrating today after achieving a perfect score in the Leaving Certificate.

Luke O'Brien Peterson, a boarding student at Rockwell College, was among more than 65,000 students to receive their results this morning - the largest Leaving Cert cohort in almost 30 years.

Luke secured an incredible seven H1s and the maximum 625 points, one of only two Rockwell College students to achieve a perfect score. His classmate, Kevin Kelly, a day student, also achieved 625 points with six H1s.

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Principal Audrey O'Byrne said the entire school community was proud of their achievements.

“Both I and all the staff of Rockwell College are incredibly proud of the Class of 2025 today, not only for their achievements in the Leaving Certificate, but for their dedication to and support for each other.

"We wish them every success in this next stage of their learning and their lives."

Overall, Rockwell's Class of 2025 recorded strong results, with 10% of the year group achieving 600 points or higher and half of the students securing more than 500 points.

This year's results nationally saw fewer top marks as grade inflation is gradually phased out, making the Rockwell results even more notable.

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The school also paid tribute to the resilience of its students after what it described as "a year marked by deep sadness," saying the group had supported one another while keeping their focus on study.

Guidance Counsellor Edel O'Callaghan was on hand today to help students discuss CAO options, while Chaplain Dr Aisling Mulherin offered pastoral support as results were opened.