St Peter's College, Colombo
Encyclopedia
St. Peter's College is a distinguished boys only primary to secondary (inclusive) school in the Bambalapitiya
zone of Colombo
, Sri Lanka
. It was founded in 1922.
In 1919, just after the end of World War I
, Rev. Fr. M.J. Le Goc, Rector
of St Joseph's College, Colombo, had a vision of a college in the southern suburbs of Colombo
. While he was traveling one day on his famous motor bicycle with this idea in mind, Fr Le Goc spotted a block of cinnamon land in Bambalapitiya
which belonged to Mr. E.C. De Fonseka.
The construction began on July 7, 1921 and was carried out under the supervision of Mr. J R J Jayesuria, an alumnus of St. Joseph's College. In December 1921, Rev. Fr. Le Goc confidently announced at the Josephian award ceremony that St. Joseph's College South would open in January 1922.
The buildings were designed by Rev. Fr. Le Goc himself and because of his enthusiasm, the buildings sprung up in six months. The quadrangle in front had an oval drive running around it. Fr. Le Goc also incorporated the concept of open-air classrooms.
The inauguration took place on Wednesday January 18, 1922. The Railway Department made special arrangements for the transportation of students from St. Joseph's College who was participating in the ceremony. A total of 204 students were admitted on that day and by the end of the year the number had risen to 268. The First rector was Rev.Fr.D.J.Nicholas Perera O.M.I., while the Current Rector is Rev. Fr. Travis Gabriel. The total amount in roll at present is 6088
was founded in March 1896 and by 1921 St. Joseph's College was 25 years old and the founding of St.. Peter’s College under the name St. Joseph’s College South could well be considered as a silver Jubilee gift of St. Joseph’s to the nation. The land was purchased from E.C. de Fonseka for a sum of Rs, 75,000/- and on the broad shoulders of Fr. LeGoc fell the responsibility of bringing St.Joseph’s College South into being. Building operations began on this neglected cinnamon land bordering the Galle Road and alongside the Wellawatte
Canal, on the 7th July 1921.
On the 18th January 1922, Fr. LeGoc with a large number of Josephian students and Staff arrived by special train and alighted near Kinross Avenue at 2 p.m. and marched to St. Peter’s for the opening. The Josephian Magazine of 1922 described it thus, “Great St. Joseph’s by the lake was setting out this bright January day to open and inaugurate the little St. Joseph’s by the sea. “His Grace the Archbishop Dr. Anthony Coudert blessed the building and premises and Hon. Mr. Edwin Evans Director of Education formerly opened the new school.”
Thus was St. Joseph’s College South born on 18 January 1922. Rev. Fr. D. J. Nicholas Perera was appointed President of the College, with classes from Grade 1 to Grade 7, while the number on roll was 204.
Rev. Fr. Arthur Nicholas Fernando who succeeded Rev. Fr. Basil Wiratunge as the Third Rector of St. Peter’s from 1956 to 1963 will be remembered for the encouragement and support he gave to the development of Aesthetic Studies. He it was who started the first schools Fife and Drum band on June 30, 1956. A Cultural Centre to promote Music, Drama, Dancing and Art was started in November 1956 with the help of Rev. Fr. Mervyn Weerakkody and Rev. Fr. Marcelline Jayakody. Kandyan Dancing, Oriental Singing and the formation of Western and Oriental Orchestras came about. Rowing was introduced to St. Peter’s in 1959, as also a unit of the St. John’s Ambulance Brigade. Rev. Fr. Arthur Nicholas it was who first had to beat the direct impact of the Schools take over from December 1, 1960 when St. Peter’s decided to remain as a Private Non Fee Levying institution. The Welfare Society came into being under his astute leadership. A fine organiser and administrator he installed a modern Canteen to supplement the much needed finances. He also set up the College Boarding.
Rev. Fr. Mervyn Weerakkody succeeded Fr. Arthur Nicholas Fernando and was the Fourth Rector from 1963 to 1971. Fr. Weerakkody took office at a most turbulent period but his genial qualities helped him to attract benefactors to help the College. He encouraged the Old Boys’ Union and the Old Peterites Sports Club to invite more members. Perhaps his greatest contribution to St. Peter’s was the formation of the Parent Teacher Association which brought both parents and teachers together in the interests of the students. More authority and responsibility was passed on to the lay teaching staff with the formation of Boards of Discipline, Studies and Sports. He established the Employees Provident Fund for the Teaching Staff. On the 24th, July 1971 he left St. Peter’s to take up the Rectorship of St. Joseph’s. Many have been the Peterites who chose Music as a career as result.
Rev. Fr. Theodore E. Peiris O.M.I. who had been on the Tutorial Staff of St. Peter’s in the 1940s succeeded Rev. Fr. Mervyn Weerakkody and was Rector from 1971 to 1975. To him fell the honour of presiding at the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the College on 18 January 1972. Even though the College still had a struggle on its hands where finances were concerned Fr. Theodore was able to muster support for the celebrations, which continued throughout the year.
The Sixth Rector of St. Peter’s Rev. Fr. Claver Perera was welcomed with much jubilation being the first fully fledged Peterite to adorn the Rectorial Chair. His stay lasted two years from 1975 to 1976. However within that short period he decentralised the administration with the appointment of Sectional Heads from Grade 6 to the Advanced Level. Under his guidance and training the Peterite Choir reached great heights a trend which exists up to today. Fr. Claver was instrumental in enlarging and renovating the College Chapel for the first time in 50 years.
Rev. Fr. Francis Madiwela took over the reins of office from Fr. Claver Perera and his stay also lasted two years from 1976 to 1977. Yet in the short time he was Rector he organised a number of Seminars for the Teachers to help them refresh their minds in all aspects of teaching. Fr. Francis Madiwela will best be remembered by the Old Boys’ Union because of his conviction that the Old Boys should have their own President, with the Rector who was President since 1927 being Patron. This change came into effect on 4 December 1977, shortly before his transfer to St. Thomas, Kotte as Principal.
Rev.Fr Travis Gabriel is Rector today of this Institute. The newly completed A/L Section Building is one project done during this year.
was inaugurated by his Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. Oswald Gomis on 2 February 1993, as the first Branch school in Sri Lanka after the schools take over act No.8 that was passed in 1961.
In a short period if time the branch has achieved unpredicted success and developing admirably, both in spiritual and educational spheres. Presently there are more than 14 staff members who are working hard to shape the leading Catholic School in the city of Gampaha
.
New Chapel
New Chapel at St. Peter's College Branch, Udugampola
was blessed and dedicated by Archbishop Oswald Gomis on 21st Oct. on the occasion of the 4th Anniversary of the Branch School.
After blessing of the New Chapel, Archbishop preside at the Eucharistic Celebration with Rev. Fr. Travis Gabriel Rector of St. Peter's College, former Rector Rev. Fr. Felician Ranjith Perera and Rev. Fr. Ranjith Madurawela the Archdiocesan Manager of Catholic Schools and Catholic Education.
The Staff and the students found the occasion to pay their respect to late Very Rev. Fr. Joe E. Wickramasinghe, for Rector of St. Peter's College and who laboured so much to put up the first buildings at Gampaha branch school.
Rev. Fr. Siri Cooray, Principal addressing the gathering paid a glowing tribute to Very Rev. Fr. Joe E. Wickramasinghe for his dedication and untiring efforts to open the branch schools of St. Peter's at the request of Archbishop Oswald Gomis.
Rev.Siri Cooray (Principal - Udugampola & Gampaha)
Mr.Bernard Fernando (Vice Principal)
Mr.Thilak Rodrigo (Vice Principal)
Mrs.Chandani Perera
Mr.Suranga Senevirathne - President of SPC OBU
Mr.Lasantha Dissanayake - Vice President of SPC - OBU
The First step been already taken now it's up to the Peterites from both Gampaha & Udugampola to make OBU a happening one Unlike other Times.
Objectives of the Old Boys Union -
main Site of Old Boys Union of St. Peter's college, Gampaha & Udugampola
Junior Prefects are selected from amongst the House Stewards, students who study in grade 12. All candidates are selected from a interview carried by the disciplinary board of the college. Their duties include maintaining of discipline of students, and advising the House Stewards in their duties. Junior Prefects are selected based on their academic and extra-curricular performances. Their term extends from the month of January to December of the school year. House captains are chosen amongst them to represent all 6 college houses. General duty kit consists of white-on-white shirt and trouser with an engraved blue and silver metal badge with the College Crest and the words "PREFECT" splayed across it. For official duties, the college tie, tie-pin, long sleeve white shirt, white trouser and blue blazer are worn by the Juniors with the prefect badge pinned on to the left lapel of the Blazer.
House Stewards are selected from amongst the Peterite Helpers. Main duty is
to provide assistance to the Junior and Senior Prefects in their duties. Their official duty-kit consists of a White-on-White long sleeve shirt and slacks, a white plastic badge bearing the words "SPC HOUSE STEWARD" which is expected to be worn above the left shirt pocket, the college tie and tie-pin. General duty-kit consists of White-on-White short
sleeve shirt and slacks and the Steward Badge.
Peterite Helpers are post-O/L students who have volunteered for this post and were introduced lately. They carry out day to day activities at school.
Primary Prefects are appointed from Year 5 and the appointments are based on nominations from class teachers. They are expected to help the teachers maintain discipline within the Primary Section of College. Duty kit includes a metal badge worn above the left shirt pocket with the College Crest and the words Primary Prefect printed on it, college tie, long sleeve shirt and shorts - white for official functions, blue or white for general duties.
is the annual cricket contest between St. Peter's College, Colombo and St Joseph's College, Colombo.
, being
among the first four schools to take up the game in Sri Lanka;
For more information on Peterite Rugby , click on the links below:
St.Peter's Collece Rugby Foundation
St. Peter's College (SPC) Latest Rugby News
courts, a Basketball
court and a concert hall with accommodated for 1500. Plus there is a fitness centre, Martial arts
centre, Table tennis
concourse, Gymnastics
. The Sports complex is open to all the students, old boys and to the General Public (Membership) to access its facilities.
The maiden performance with the roll of drums, the crash of symbols with the Bugle
Blast was at the Annual Athletic meet. In 1983 they were runners-up in the “Colombo School Band Display” competition.
The Western Band of St. Peter’s was the first to organize an Indoor School and Outdoor School band displays and they were named as “PETERITE TEMPO” and “VERTUS et VERITAS”. They have organized another four band festivals, there are
The western band completed 50 years of great service to St. Peter’s and to God in the year 2006.
The Western Band celebrated their 50th Golden Jubilee in year 2007 by organizing a Band Fiesta "Ritmico Con Spirito", under the guidance of the Rector, Rev. Fr. Travis Gabriel, the priest in charge Rev. Fr. Siri cooray.
During the years 1982 to 1984, Rev. Fr. Jayamanne was the substitute Rector during the absence of Fr. Joe E. Wickramasinghe
Let its glorious colours give
Golden gleam and silver sheen,
Set the flag a – flying Boys,
While in boyhood, here we linger,
Who will dare to point a finger
Work enduring, play alluring,
Ills all – curing health ensuring
And our flag is floating proudly
From 1927 to 1977 a period of 50 years, the college Rector was ex-officio the President of the Old Boys’ Union.
In 1977 Rev. Fr. Francis Madiwela mooted the idea of electing a President among members of the Old Boys’ union, with Rector becoming the patron of the union. Accordingly a 3 man Sub Committee comprising J. A. R. Felix, C.E. Maurice Perera and George Wijesinghe was appointed to draft a new constitution incorporating the new proposal. This new constitution was adopted on the 4th December 1977, and J.A.R. Felix was elected as the first President of the Old Boys’ Union.
Today after a long history of more than 80 years the old Boys’ Union consists of a membership of over many thousands takes pride in the fact that the objectives of the union as spelled out in the constitution.
The AGM of the OBU is held on the mid month of June annually and the financial year of the OBU starts from the 31st of March each year.
main Site of Old Boys Union of St. Peter's college
Alumni
Sports - Rugby
Bambalapitiya
Bambalapitiya is a suburb in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The area, numbered Colombo 4, spans about one and a half kilometres of the Galle Road in Colombo. The west of the city is bordered by the Indian Ocean while to the east Havelock Town town borders it....
zone of Colombo
Colombo
Colombo is the largest city of Sri Lanka. It is located on the west coast of the island and adjacent to Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte, the capital of Sri Lanka. Colombo is often referred to as the capital of the country, since Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte is a satellite city of Colombo...
, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, officially the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka is a country off the southern coast of the Indian subcontinent. Known until 1972 as Ceylon , Sri Lanka is an island surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the Gulf of Mannar and the Palk Strait, and lies in the vicinity of India and the...
. It was founded in 1922.
In 1919, just after the end of World War I
World War I
World War I , which was predominantly called the World War or the Great War from its occurrence until 1939, and the First World War or World War I thereafter, was a major war centred in Europe that began on 28 July 1914 and lasted until 11 November 1918...
, Rev. Fr. M.J. Le Goc, Rector
Rector
The word rector has a number of different meanings; it is widely used to refer to an academic, religious or political administrator...
of St Joseph's College, Colombo, had a vision of a college in the southern suburbs of Colombo
Colombo
Colombo is the largest city of Sri Lanka. It is located on the west coast of the island and adjacent to Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte, the capital of Sri Lanka. Colombo is often referred to as the capital of the country, since Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte is a satellite city of Colombo...
. While he was traveling one day on his famous motor bicycle with this idea in mind, Fr Le Goc spotted a block of cinnamon land in Bambalapitiya
Bambalapitiya
Bambalapitiya is a suburb in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The area, numbered Colombo 4, spans about one and a half kilometres of the Galle Road in Colombo. The west of the city is bordered by the Indian Ocean while to the east Havelock Town town borders it....
which belonged to Mr. E.C. De Fonseka.
The construction began on July 7, 1921 and was carried out under the supervision of Mr. J R J Jayesuria, an alumnus of St. Joseph's College. In December 1921, Rev. Fr. Le Goc confidently announced at the Josephian award ceremony that St. Joseph's College South would open in January 1922.
The buildings were designed by Rev. Fr. Le Goc himself and because of his enthusiasm, the buildings sprung up in six months. The quadrangle in front had an oval drive running around it. Fr. Le Goc also incorporated the concept of open-air classrooms.
The inauguration took place on Wednesday January 18, 1922. The Railway Department made special arrangements for the transportation of students from St. Joseph's College who was participating in the ceremony. A total of 204 students were admitted on that day and by the end of the year the number had risen to 268. The First rector was Rev.Fr.D.J.Nicholas Perera O.M.I., while the Current Rector is Rev. Fr. Travis Gabriel. The total amount in roll at present is 6088
St. Joseph’s College South
St. Joseph's College, ColomboSt. Joseph's College, Colombo
St. Joseph's College is a Catholic educational institution in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It was established in 1896 by French missionaries, with Rev Christopher Ernst Bonjean playing a leading role. The college has over 4000 students with a staff of over 200...
was founded in March 1896 and by 1921 St. Joseph's College was 25 years old and the founding of St.. Peter’s College under the name St. Joseph’s College South could well be considered as a silver Jubilee gift of St. Joseph’s to the nation. The land was purchased from E.C. de Fonseka for a sum of Rs, 75,000/- and on the broad shoulders of Fr. LeGoc fell the responsibility of bringing St.Joseph’s College South into being. Building operations began on this neglected cinnamon land bordering the Galle Road and alongside the Wellawatte
Wellawatte
Wellawatte, a suburb in Colombo, lies immediately south of Bambalapitiya and is classified as zone 6 within the Colombo Municipal region. The town begins at the old Dutch canal just before the Savoy Cinema and extends all the way south to the same canal that spills into the sea just before the...
Canal, on the 7th July 1921.
On the 18th January 1922, Fr. LeGoc with a large number of Josephian students and Staff arrived by special train and alighted near Kinross Avenue at 2 p.m. and marched to St. Peter’s for the opening. The Josephian Magazine of 1922 described it thus, “Great St. Joseph’s by the lake was setting out this bright January day to open and inaugurate the little St. Joseph’s by the sea. “His Grace the Archbishop Dr. Anthony Coudert blessed the building and premises and Hon. Mr. Edwin Evans Director of Education formerly opened the new school.”
Thus was St. Joseph’s College South born on 18 January 1922. Rev. Fr. D. J. Nicholas Perera was appointed President of the College, with classes from Grade 1 to Grade 7, while the number on roll was 204.
Difficult Years : 1956 - 1977
The period 1956 to 1977 covers the Rectorships of Five Rectors, all of whom were dogged by the problem of the Schools Take over bid, with severe financial constraints consequent to the decision by St. Peter’s not to be vested with the State but to function as a ‘Non Fee Levying Private School’. Nevertheless and notwithstanding each of the five Rectors of this difficult era made their individual contribution to the progress of St. Peter’s never succumbing to problems of the times.Rev. Fr. Arthur Nicholas Fernando who succeeded Rev. Fr. Basil Wiratunge as the Third Rector of St. Peter’s from 1956 to 1963 will be remembered for the encouragement and support he gave to the development of Aesthetic Studies. He it was who started the first schools Fife and Drum band on June 30, 1956. A Cultural Centre to promote Music, Drama, Dancing and Art was started in November 1956 with the help of Rev. Fr. Mervyn Weerakkody and Rev. Fr. Marcelline Jayakody. Kandyan Dancing, Oriental Singing and the formation of Western and Oriental Orchestras came about. Rowing was introduced to St. Peter’s in 1959, as also a unit of the St. John’s Ambulance Brigade. Rev. Fr. Arthur Nicholas it was who first had to beat the direct impact of the Schools take over from December 1, 1960 when St. Peter’s decided to remain as a Private Non Fee Levying institution. The Welfare Society came into being under his astute leadership. A fine organiser and administrator he installed a modern Canteen to supplement the much needed finances. He also set up the College Boarding.
Rev. Fr. Mervyn Weerakkody succeeded Fr. Arthur Nicholas Fernando and was the Fourth Rector from 1963 to 1971. Fr. Weerakkody took office at a most turbulent period but his genial qualities helped him to attract benefactors to help the College. He encouraged the Old Boys’ Union and the Old Peterites Sports Club to invite more members. Perhaps his greatest contribution to St. Peter’s was the formation of the Parent Teacher Association which brought both parents and teachers together in the interests of the students. More authority and responsibility was passed on to the lay teaching staff with the formation of Boards of Discipline, Studies and Sports. He established the Employees Provident Fund for the Teaching Staff. On the 24th, July 1971 he left St. Peter’s to take up the Rectorship of St. Joseph’s. Many have been the Peterites who chose Music as a career as result.
Rev. Fr. Theodore E. Peiris O.M.I. who had been on the Tutorial Staff of St. Peter’s in the 1940s succeeded Rev. Fr. Mervyn Weerakkody and was Rector from 1971 to 1975. To him fell the honour of presiding at the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the College on 18 January 1972. Even though the College still had a struggle on its hands where finances were concerned Fr. Theodore was able to muster support for the celebrations, which continued throughout the year.
The Sixth Rector of St. Peter’s Rev. Fr. Claver Perera was welcomed with much jubilation being the first fully fledged Peterite to adorn the Rectorial Chair. His stay lasted two years from 1975 to 1976. However within that short period he decentralised the administration with the appointment of Sectional Heads from Grade 6 to the Advanced Level. Under his guidance and training the Peterite Choir reached great heights a trend which exists up to today. Fr. Claver was instrumental in enlarging and renovating the College Chapel for the first time in 50 years.
Rev. Fr. Francis Madiwela took over the reins of office from Fr. Claver Perera and his stay also lasted two years from 1976 to 1977. Yet in the short time he was Rector he organised a number of Seminars for the Teachers to help them refresh their minds in all aspects of teaching. Fr. Francis Madiwela will best be remembered by the Old Boys’ Union because of his conviction that the Old Boys should have their own President, with the Rector who was President since 1927 being Patron. This change came into effect on 4 December 1977, shortly before his transfer to St. Thomas, Kotte as Principal.
The College Today
Rev.Fr Joe.Wickramasinghe took over the Rectorship in 1978 and steered the college for 16 years.He transformed the school into a modern institution and raised its profile academically,in sports and discipline. He built the vocational training centre complete with a modern computer Lab,an audio visual studio,a Three storied science Laboratory building,the swimming pool complex,new primary school building.He created scholarship funds to support students entering university and established a board of administration to assist him in managing the school.It was during his Rectorship that the first branch school in Gampaha was opened.He also built a new dental clinic,a modern canteen and a mini zoo for the primary school.Rev.Fr Travis Gabriel is Rector today of this Institute. The newly completed A/L Section Building is one project done during this year.
St. Peter's College, Gampaha Branch
The branch, St. Peter’s College, GampahaGampaha
Gampaha is an urban city in Sri Lanka and is the capital of the Gampaha District in Western Province, north of Colombo. Gampaha District is separated from Colombo mainly by the Kelani River.-Namesake:...
was inaugurated by his Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. Oswald Gomis on 2 February 1993, as the first Branch school in Sri Lanka after the schools take over act No.8 that was passed in 1961.
In a short period if time the branch has achieved unpredicted success and developing admirably, both in spiritual and educational spheres. Presently there are more than 14 staff members who are working hard to shape the leading Catholic School in the city of Gampaha
Gampaha
Gampaha is an urban city in Sri Lanka and is the capital of the Gampaha District in Western Province, north of Colombo. Gampaha District is separated from Colombo mainly by the Kelani River.-Namesake:...
.
St. Peter's College, Udugampola Branch
His Grace the Archbishop Oswald Gomis, the Archbishop of Colombo initiated opening Branch Schools of the Catholic Colleges in Colombo and introducing in the rural areas to provide better education to the children in the villages and remote areas. St. Peter's College Branch School at Gampaha was the first of 10 branches opened so far and Udugampola Branch School was declared opened on 24 September 2005 by Archbishop Oswald Gomis and appointed Rev. Fr. Siri Cooray as the Principal of the Branch Schools of both Gampaha and Udugampola in January 2007 and gave Rev. Fr. Suranga Fonseka as a Assistant Priest to the school in January 2008.New Chapel
New Chapel at St. Peter's College Branch, Udugampola
Udugampola
Udugampola is a small village in the Gampaha District of Sri Lanka. The main point in the area is around the intersection of Gampaha-Minuwangoda and Kotugoda-Naiwala roads. According to the legends Udugampola had been the Kingdom of a provincial king called "Sakalakala Wallabha"...
was blessed and dedicated by Archbishop Oswald Gomis on 21st Oct. on the occasion of the 4th Anniversary of the Branch School.
After blessing of the New Chapel, Archbishop preside at the Eucharistic Celebration with Rev. Fr. Travis Gabriel Rector of St. Peter's College, former Rector Rev. Fr. Felician Ranjith Perera and Rev. Fr. Ranjith Madurawela the Archdiocesan Manager of Catholic Schools and Catholic Education.
The Staff and the students found the occasion to pay their respect to late Very Rev. Fr. Joe E. Wickramasinghe, for Rector of St. Peter's College and who laboured so much to put up the first buildings at Gampaha branch school.
Rev. Fr. Siri Cooray, Principal addressing the gathering paid a glowing tribute to Very Rev. Fr. Joe E. Wickramasinghe for his dedication and untiring efforts to open the branch schools of St. Peter's at the request of Archbishop Oswald Gomis.
Old Boys Union Gampaha Branch and Udugampola Branch
15 March 2009 all the Old Peterites of Gampaha & Udugampola gathered to the Udugampola School college hall to form the 1st Branch OBU under Main OBU at St.Peter's College Colombo 04.Under the Guidance ofRev.Siri Cooray (Principal - Udugampola & Gampaha)
Mr.Bernard Fernando (Vice Principal)
Mr.Thilak Rodrigo (Vice Principal)
Mrs.Chandani Perera
Mr.Suranga Senevirathne - President of SPC OBU
Mr.Lasantha Dissanayake - Vice President of SPC - OBU
The First step been already taken now it's up to the Peterites from both Gampaha & Udugampola to make OBU a happening one Unlike other Times.
Objectives of the Old Boys Union -
- To keep the Past Students of the St.Peter's College in a purposeful relationship with their Alma Mater & there by maintain with in them & among them a spirit of Loyalty to their Alma Mater
- To obtain advice , Support & Co - operation of the past students in all matters affecting St.Peter's College particularly
- In Promoting the advancement , Progress & Welfare of the School
- In promoting & advancing the educational , cultural , recreational, social& economic welfare of the students of St.Peter's College
- To make able senior students of St.Peter's College to acquaint themselves with the members of the Union, in order to engender spirit of friendship which would help those younger members to contribute whole heatedly towards the future welfare & continuity of the Union after they have left the College.
main Site of Old Boys Union of St. Peter's college, Gampaha & Udugampola
Prefects
Senior Prefects are selected from amongst the Junior Prefects, students who study in grade 13. The Head Prefect is selected along with two Deputies and they bear ultimate responsibility of the Prefect Body, which includes the Junior Prefects and House Stewards. Senior Prefects duties include supervision of the Junior Prefects and Stewards in order to assist the college authorities in maintaining discipline within the primary, middle and upper schools at college. Senior Prefects play more of a managerial role in their duties. Senior Prefects remain as students of the school until the end of the year (January to December) even though all their final examinations have been complete as they are able to exert more influence upon the other students who are still studying. General duty kit of a senior prefect consists of white-on-white shirt and trouser with an engraved blue and silver metal badge with the College Crest and the words "SENIOR PREFECT" splayed across it. For official duties, the college tie, tie-pin, long sleeve white shirt, white trouser and blue blazer are worn with the College Crest pinned on to the left lapel of the Blazer.Junior Prefects are selected from amongst the House Stewards, students who study in grade 12. All candidates are selected from a interview carried by the disciplinary board of the college. Their duties include maintaining of discipline of students, and advising the House Stewards in their duties. Junior Prefects are selected based on their academic and extra-curricular performances. Their term extends from the month of January to December of the school year. House captains are chosen amongst them to represent all 6 college houses. General duty kit consists of white-on-white shirt and trouser with an engraved blue and silver metal badge with the College Crest and the words "PREFECT" splayed across it. For official duties, the college tie, tie-pin, long sleeve white shirt, white trouser and blue blazer are worn by the Juniors with the prefect badge pinned on to the left lapel of the Blazer.
House Stewards are selected from amongst the Peterite Helpers. Main duty is
to provide assistance to the Junior and Senior Prefects in their duties. Their official duty-kit consists of a White-on-White long sleeve shirt and slacks, a white plastic badge bearing the words "SPC HOUSE STEWARD" which is expected to be worn above the left shirt pocket, the college tie and tie-pin. General duty-kit consists of White-on-White short
sleeve shirt and slacks and the Steward Badge.
Peterite Helpers are post-O/L students who have volunteered for this post and were introduced lately. They carry out day to day activities at school.
Primary Prefects are appointed from Year 5 and the appointments are based on nominations from class teachers. They are expected to help the teachers maintain discipline within the Primary Section of College. Duty kit includes a metal badge worn above the left shirt pocket with the College Crest and the words Primary Prefect printed on it, college tie, long sleeve shirt and shorts - white for official functions, blue or white for general duties.
Houses
There are 4 houses in the Primary School and 6 houses in the Upper School.Primary School Houses | Upper School Houses |
---|---|
|
|
Battles of the Saints
The Battle of the SaintsBattle of the Saints (cricket)
The Battle of the Saints is the annual cricket contest between St Peter's and St. Joseph's Colleges in Colombo, Sri Lanka, which takes place in March. Inaugurated in 1933 by the reverends of St. Peter's, the matches receive significant media and supporter attention, with the 2011 match being the...
is the annual cricket contest between St. Peter's College, Colombo and St Joseph's College, Colombo.
Sport Clubs
- Athletics
- BadmintonBadmintonBadminton is a racquet sport played by either two opposing players or two opposing pairs , who take positions on opposite halves of a rectangular court that is divided by a net. Players score points by striking a shuttlecock with their racquet so that it passes over the net and lands in their...
- BasketballBasketballBasketball is a team sport in which two teams of five players try to score points by throwing or "shooting" a ball through the top of a basketball hoop while following a set of rules...
- CarromCarromCarrom is a family of tabletop games with gameplay that lies somewhere between billiards and table shuffleboard. Carrom is known by many names around the world, including carrum, couronne, carum, karam, karom, karum, fatta and finger billiards...
- ChessChessChess is a two-player board game played on a chessboard, a square-checkered board with 64 squares arranged in an eight-by-eight grid. It is one of the world's most popular games, played by millions of people worldwide at home, in clubs, online, by correspondence, and in tournaments.Each player...
- CricketCricketCricket is a bat-and-ball game played between two teams of 11 players on an oval-shaped field, at the centre of which is a rectangular 22-yard long pitch. One team bats, trying to score as many runs as possible while the other team bowls and fields, trying to dismiss the batsmen and thus limit the...
- Football
- GymnasticsGymnasticsGymnastics is a sport involving performance of exercises requiring physical strength, flexibility, agility, coordination, and balance. Internationally, all of the gymnastic sports are governed by the Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique with each country having its own national governing body...
- HockeyField hockeyField Hockey, or Hockey, is a team sport in which a team of players attempts to score goals by hitting, pushing or flicking a ball into an opposing team's goal using sticks...
- KarateKarateis a martial art developed in the Ryukyu Islands in what is now Okinawa, Japan. It was developed from indigenous fighting methods called and Chinese kenpō. Karate is a striking art using punching, kicking, knee and elbow strikes, and open-handed techniques such as knife-hands. Grappling, locks,...
- RuggerRuggerRugger may mean:*A slang word for rugby football, or for one who plays rugby football*List of Star Wars creatures#Ruggers, a species of animal in the Star Wars fictional scenario*A person who makes rugs, or a tool used when making rugs...
- SwimmingSwimming (sport)Swimming is a sport governed by the Fédération Internationale de Natation .-History: Competitive swimming in Europe began around 1800 BCE, mostly in the form of the freestyle. In 1873 Steve Bowyer introduced the trudgen to Western swimming competitions, after copying the front crawl used by Native...
- Table TennisTable tennisTable tennis, also known as ping-pong, is a sport in which two or four players hit a lightweight, hollow ball back and forth using table tennis rackets. The game takes place on a hard table divided by a net...
- TennisTennisTennis is a sport usually played between two players or between two teams of two players each . Each player uses a racket that is strung to strike a hollow rubber ball covered with felt over a net into the opponent's court. Tennis is an Olympic sport and is played at all levels of society at all...
- VolleyballVolleyballVolleyball is a team sport in which two teams of six players are separated by a net. Each team tries to score points by grounding a ball on the other team's court under organized rules.The complete rules are extensive...
Rugby
St. Peter's College, Colombo 4 has a rich history in the game of Rugby FootballRugby football
Rugby football is a style of football named after Rugby School in the United Kingdom. It is seen most prominently in two current sports, rugby league and rugby union.-History:...
, being
among the first four schools to take up the game in Sri Lanka;
For more information on Peterite Rugby , click on the links below:
St.Peter's Collece Rugby Foundation
St. Peter's College (SPC) Latest Rugby News
St. Peter’s Sports Centre
St. Peter’s sports Centre is an indoor sports complex that is built alongside the extended duplication road. This is a 4 store multipurpose sports complex comprise of 4 - BadmintonBadminton
Badminton is a racquet sport played by either two opposing players or two opposing pairs , who take positions on opposite halves of a rectangular court that is divided by a net. Players score points by striking a shuttlecock with their racquet so that it passes over the net and lands in their...
courts, a Basketball
Basketball
Basketball is a team sport in which two teams of five players try to score points by throwing or "shooting" a ball through the top of a basketball hoop while following a set of rules...
court and a concert hall with accommodated for 1500. Plus there is a fitness centre, Martial arts
Martial arts
Martial arts are extensive systems of codified practices and traditions of combat, practiced for a variety of reasons, including self-defense, competition, physical health and fitness, as well as mental and spiritual development....
centre, Table tennis
Table tennis
Table tennis, also known as ping-pong, is a sport in which two or four players hit a lightweight, hollow ball back and forth using table tennis rackets. The game takes place on a hard table divided by a net...
concourse, Gymnastics
Gymnastics
Gymnastics is a sport involving performance of exercises requiring physical strength, flexibility, agility, coordination, and balance. Internationally, all of the gymnastic sports are governed by the Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique with each country having its own national governing body...
. The Sports complex is open to all the students, old boys and to the General Public (Membership) to access its facilities.
Clubs and Societies
- Aeronautical Club
- St. Aloysius' Altar Servers' Association
- Cadets
- Computer society
- Do-You-Know-Club
- English Literary and Drama Society
- Interact Club
- ICT Society
- Junior English Literary & Drama Society
- Legion of Mary
- Maths Society
- Muslim Majlis
- Philatelic Club
- Red Cross SocietyInternational Red Cross and Red Crescent MovementThe International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is an international humanitarian movement with approximately 97 million volunteers, members and staff worldwide which was founded to protect human life and health, to ensure respect for all human beings, and to prevent and alleviate human...
- Science Society
- Scouts
- Sinhala Literary Society
- Students' Service League
- Tamil Literary Association
- The Archaeology and History Society
- United Nations Club
- Young Cristian Students' Movement (YCS)
- Western Brass Band
- Western choir
Western Brass Band
The western band of St. Peter’s college was formed on 30 June 1956 during the period of Rev. Fr. Arthur Fernando as the rector of St. Peter’s college. It was the first school cadet band in Sri Lanka.The maiden performance with the roll of drums, the crash of symbols with the Bugle
Blast was at the Annual Athletic meet. In 1983 they were runners-up in the “Colombo School Band Display” competition.
The Western Band of St. Peter’s was the first to organize an Indoor School and Outdoor School band displays and they were named as “PETERITE TEMPO” and “VERTUS et VERITAS”. They have organized another four band festivals, there are
- "VERTUS ET VERITAS" outdoor band display in 1997
- “PETERITE CANTABILE” indoor band display in 1999
- “PETERITE TEMPO II” indoor band display in 2001
- “PETERITE CANTABILE II” indoor band display in 2003
The western band completed 50 years of great service to St. Peter’s and to God in the year 2006.
The Western Band celebrated their 50th Golden Jubilee in year 2007 by organizing a Band Fiesta "Ritmico Con Spirito", under the guidance of the Rector, Rev. Fr. Travis Gabriel, the priest in charge Rev. Fr. Siri cooray.
Past Rectors
Rev. Fr. Maurice J. Le Goc | Founder |
Rev. Fr. D. J. Nicholas Perera | 1922–1943 |
Rev. Fr. Basil A. Wiratunge | 1943–1955 |
Rev. Fr. Arthur Nicholas Fernando | 1956–1963 |
Rev. Fr. Mervyn Weerakkody | 1963–1971 |
Rev. Fr. Theodore E. Peiris | 1971–1975 |
Rev. Fr. Claver Perera | 1975–1976 |
Rev. Fr. Francis Madiwela | 1976–1977 |
Rev. Fr. Joe E. Wickramasinghe | 1978–1994 |
Rev. Fr. Felician Ranjith Perera | 1994–2005 |
Rev. Fr. Travis Gabriel | 2005 - * |
During the years 1982 to 1984, Rev. Fr. Jayamanne was the substitute Rector during the absence of Fr. Joe E. Wickramasinghe
The College Anthem
Lend a Heart and lend a Hand-
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- And lift the flag on high,
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Let its glorious colours give
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- A greeting to the sky.
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Golden gleam and silver sheen,
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- And blue that crowns the world
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Set the flag a – flying Boys,
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- Keep the flag unfurled
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While in boyhood, here we linger,
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- Midst a garden’s fragrant flowers
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Who will dare to point a finger
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- When such joys are ours
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Work enduring, play alluring,
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- Fill our happy hours,
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Ills all – curing health ensuring
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- In St.Peter’s bowers,
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And our flag is floating proudly
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- Let us sing its praises loudly.
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- Words by L.T. Minor, Music by George De Niese
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Notable Teachers
- Ediriweera SarachchandraEdiriweera SarachchandraEdiriweera Sarachchandra was an Sri Lankan playwright, novelist, poet, literary critic, essayist and social commentator. Considered Sri Lanka's premier playwright, he was a senior lecturer at the University of Peradeniya for many years and served as Sri Lankan Ambassador to France .- Early...
- A Famous Sri Lankan playwright, novelist, poet, literary critic, essayist and social commentator. - Archibald Perera
- Sunil Aponsu
Old Boys Union
A few months after the change of the name from St. Joseph’s college south to St. Peter College, The inaugural Meeting of St.Peter’s College Old Boys’ Union took place on 15 October 1927, presided over by the rector, Rev. Fr. Nicholas Perera.From 1927 to 1977 a period of 50 years, the college Rector was ex-officio the President of the Old Boys’ Union.
In 1977 Rev. Fr. Francis Madiwela mooted the idea of electing a President among members of the Old Boys’ union, with Rector becoming the patron of the union. Accordingly a 3 man Sub Committee comprising J. A. R. Felix, C.E. Maurice Perera and George Wijesinghe was appointed to draft a new constitution incorporating the new proposal. This new constitution was adopted on the 4th December 1977, and J.A.R. Felix was elected as the first President of the Old Boys’ Union.
Today after a long history of more than 80 years the old Boys’ Union consists of a membership of over many thousands takes pride in the fact that the objectives of the union as spelled out in the constitution.
- To keep the past students of St. Peter’s College in a purposeful relationship with their Alma Mater and thereby maintain within them and among them a spirit of Loyalty to their Alma Mater.
- To obtain the advice, support and co-operation of past students in all matters affecting St. Peter’s College particularly
- In promoting the advancement, progress and welfare of the school.
- In promoting and advancing the educational, cultural, recreational,social and economic welfare of the students of St. Peter’s College.
The AGM of the OBU is held on the mid month of June annually and the financial year of the OBU starts from the 31st of March each year.
main Site of Old Boys Union of St. Peter's college
Past Presidents
J.A.R. Felix | 1977–1980 |
Shelly Wickramasinghe | 1980–1983 |
V.P.A. Perera | 1983–1984 |
Mano Chanmugam | 1984–1987 |
Gen. Deshamanya Denis Perera | 1987–1990 |
Ranjith Weeraratne | 1990–1992 |
C.E.Maurice Perera | 1992–1993 |
C.Abeygoonewardene | 1993–1996 |
N. A. L. Kabraal | 1996–1999 |
Gerry De Mel | 1999–2002 |
Mano Chanmugam | 2002–2003 (re-elected) |
Harin Gunawardena | 2003–2006 |
Suranga Seneviratne | 2006–2009 |
Roshan Dharmaratne | 2009 - * |
Old Boys Union - Overseas
- SPCOBU - Australia, Melbourne St.Peters College Social Club
- SPCOBU - Canada, Toronto Josephian-Peterite Alumni Association - Canada
- SPCOBU - Italy
- SPCOBU - Oman
- SPCOBU - States of Qatar, Doha
- SPCOBU - United Arab Emirates, Dubai
- SPCOBU - United Kingdom, London St.Peter's College, Colombo, Old Boys'Union (U.K. Branch)
- SPCOBU - United States of America, Washington DC
Old Boys Union - Batch Groups
Old Peterites Sports Club (OPSC)
- Cricket Fellowship
- Rugby Fellowship
- Basketball Fellowship
- Athletic Fellowship
External links
OfficialAlumni
Sports - Rugby