Most Rev. Dr. Oswald Gomis, Archbishop Emeritus, Chancellor of the Colombo University was the backdrop and pioneer of St. Nicholas'. He was a great source of motivation in the instigation of this institute.
A seed which is striving hard to grow amongst thorns and bushes without a drop of water resembles the beginning of one of the leading international schools in the island, or like a river trying to propagate through huge boulders of rocks. St. Nicholas International College, a colossus now but a Lilliput then, commences its journey in the year 2003. A journey where many obstacles and impediments are to be encountered like the boulders of rocks and the thorn bushes, but never quitting or seizing. A river does not arrest its journey because of massive boulders, it continues its path despite of any obstructions, and so was this college. Amidst any difficulty it stood steadfast in order to accomplish its objective, "the learned shine like stars".
Fifty four students, one building, five grades and a few teachers was its inception, like a seed planted in dry soil. The arduous and audacious mission commenced, lacking most facilities an institute should possess. But the synergy of the pioneers of this college was very effective. The relentless zeal of the joined entity of teachers and students worked miracles. Like the birth of a star, St. Nicholas' began to twinkle.Growing in catholic environment, we believed in the Almighty, hand in hand with God, the colleges proliferate. Time passed, within two years, 54 multiplied to over 200 students. The seedling was gradually emerging out. This was gigantic stride which delivered the students a new approach to education. The main aim of this institute was to put forward educated and well-mannered citizens into the society. Strict discipline is observed, teaching becomes more elaborate as the little seedling begins branch out into a large tree.
Entities which were dreams at first were beginning to come true. New infrastructures were erected. Facilities such as well equipped laboratories are provided to students so that they could reach a more practical approach in both science and IT fields. New libraries give them the privilege to harness knowledge on new subjects.Now more opportunities are available for students. Also this institute summoned well educated teachers to render their knowledge to the forthcoming generation. Now the staff guild exceeds over sixty teachers, who are veterans in their fields. Classes now spread up to A/L s', a wide range of subjects, competent teachers, students are now able to attend international examinations successfully, which was proved by the scores of O/L, A/S and A/L students during the past few years which held this school esteemed.
Various associations such as the English Literary, Science and Commerce associations broaden the knowledge of students in the respective fields. The Nature Club, initiated to make the students comprehend about the conservation and importance of nature. This understanding is put into practice by the maintenance of greenery and through wildlife and nature trips.But education alone cannot complete a student. Sports activities play a prominent role in the curriculum. Basketball, Netball, Cricket, Football, Hockey, Swimming, Athletics are extracurricular activities which are all assisted by the necessary infrastructures such as basketball and netball courts, a swimming pool etc. The College choir, the western band, oriental and western dancing are utilized to unveil the aesthetic talents of students.
Last but not the least everybody in this school moves as one family which is why St. Nicholas' is an ideal place for schooling!
Sonal Fernando
AS (Science)
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