I've been fortunate enough to have taught this student for 4 years now. I'm sure that anyone who knows her will recognise how much she pours her heart and soul into her studies as well as how dedicated she is to helping the wider school community: from volunteering for fund-raising events, to tutoring and helping to mentor our younger students. Luca is a phenomenal person and in recognition of all of her efforts she was awarded the Dr. Louise O'Reilly scholarship to study A levels at Emerald Sixth Form. For those of you who are new to the school, Emerald Sixth Form was started by Paul and Louise O'Reilly back in 2016 with only 4 students. Since then it has grown to the community we have today of almost 40 students. In honour of our co-founder, the "Dr Louise O'Reilly Scholarship" was established.

For the past 4 years I have spent most of my days here, growing, learning and experiencing and it’s weird to think that soon I will be going my own way. Although I’m excited to step into my future, there are so many things I have enjoyed about this experience that it is a bittersweet goodbye. I know I won’t miss Amy telling me to “fix up”, Claire reminding me about dress code rules or Paul asking me to write a speech last minute but that’s what makes Emerald so unique. We all have diverse experiences that involve challenges and learning beyond the book. A prime example is some of Craig’s life advice I received after making a mistake. I’m not too sure which one as I have made a few, but it was “assumption is the mother of all fuck ups”. I have used this in many situations, and will continue to do so in my future. Thanks sir. My first few weeks here I felt overwhelmed by the care I received, especially from Amy. Turns out my mum had told her that I was socially awkward and you took your job as my mentor very seriously. My mum thanks you for that, and I thank you for your continued support and care over the past 4 years. And as for you Claire, I have the upmost respect for you, the time and energy you have dedicated to me personally and the school is second to none. Thank you, my experience wouldn’t have been the same without you. Paul, I would like to say a big thank you for giving me the opportunity to stay on to complete my A levels through the scholarship programme, I hope I have exceeded your expectations. From my own dysfunctional family to the Emerald dysfunctional family, you have helped me feel at home. To the year 11’s, if you continue your studies here I hope you enjoy it as much as I have, and if not, I wish you the best in your future. To my class, I hope you achieve all that you want for your future and more. Thank you.