History

From the year 1951-1997

From its humble beginnings in 1951, St. Anthony’s Girls’ School, Panadura, has grown into a thriving institution, committed to academic excellence and empowering young women. During the years 1965-1970, the appointment of Reverend Sister Rudolph as the principal marked a significant milestone, as she became the first Sinhalese national to hold this prestigious position. This exemplified the school’s dedication to diversity and inclusivity in educational leadership. Subsequently, during the tenure of Honorable Sister Mary Duff Mercy (1970-1979), the school witnessed remarkable progress. Significant advancements in physical resources, education, and sports facilities were made. The introduction of arts subjects at the G.C.E A/L level and opportunities for studying home science and commerce enriched the students’ learning experiences. The school’s infrastructure saw substantial development with the construction of the cluster core building and additional classrooms. Continuing the upward trajectory, the years 1980-1997 saw further achievements. Notably, the school song and emblem were created, fostering a sense of identity and pride among students. Success in educational events, sports, and environmental activities were celebrated. Under various principals, the school’s physical resources were upgraded, including the establishment of a fully-equipped library, generously supported by the Western Provincial Council. The construction of a security-enhancing wall further ensured the well-being of the school community. These transformative periods have left an enduring legacy, making St. Anthony’s Girls’ School a beacon of educational excellence and empowerment.

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From  1997-2018

From 1997 to 2013, Mrs. NK Perera held the esteemed position of principal at St. Anthony’s Girls’ School, Panadura, playing a crucial role in its progress. Under her leadership, essential measures were taken to address flooding issues on the school grounds by constructing culverts and bridges. The main hall’s roof underwent thorough repairs, while the school’s library was established with support from the International World Bank. The construction of a three-storied building was initiated under the guidance of Mrs. A.C.H. Jagodaarachchi, who served as Deputy Principal in 2003, with a generous donation from Mr. Noel T. Mendis. Mrs. Jagodaarachchi later became principal in 2005, during which several development projects were successfully completed, including the beautification of the school environment with a flower garden and landscaping.

Moving forward to the years 2013-2018, under the dynamic leadership of Mrs. J. Rohini De Silva, St. Anthony’s Girls’ School witnessed an era of unprecedented growth and transformation. Recognizing the need for improvement, Mrs. De Silva implemented a comprehensive program to address various deficiencies, focusing on infrastructure and academic standards. The school experienced a remarkable physical transformation with the addition of crucial facilities such as a Buddhist temple, an outdoor stage, and a four-storey building, fostering a sense of pride and identity among the school community.Mrs. De Silva’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence resulted in significant improvements in education, introducing the Junior Western Orchestra and Junior Oriental Orchestra, enriching the students’ musical experiences. The school’s sports prowess flourished under her guidance, with the eagerly awaited “Battle Of The Young Queens” competition gaining prominence.Through her visionary approach and dedicated efforts, Mrs. J. Rohini De Silva elevated St. Anthony’s Girls’ School to new heights, empowering students with a well-rounded education and instilling in them a passion for learning, creativity, and sportsmanship. Her legacy continues to inspire and uplift the school community, creating a lasting impact on future generations.

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From  2018 to date

From 2018 to the present, St. Anthony’s Girls’ School, Panadura, has continued to thrive under the inspiring leadership of its principals. With a focus on academic excellence and holistic development, the school has implemented innovative teaching methods and modern educational practices. Embracing technology, the school has integrated digital learning resources and interactive platforms, enriching students’ educational experiences. Through various extracurricular activities, students have been encouraged to explore their talents and passions, fostering a vibrant and inclusive school community. As the school continues to evolve, it remains committed to empowering young women and shaping them into confident and capable individuals ready to face the challenges of the future.

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