125 Years
Ms. Lilian Nixon, a young 26 year old Irish lady, who sailed to the far flung little colony of Ceylon and set up a school in 1900 would never have ever imagined the beautiful school that has celebrated 125 years. Along with her companion from Canada, Ms. Elizabeth Whitney, neither would have envisaged that starting with just two students and even facing the prospect of their beloved Ladies’ College being shut down after a year – in 2025 would be a school thriving with 1,800 students.
Fueled by faith in God they set up this school where it was a place of sound learning, a place of varied natural life and spiritual growth. The idyllic space, the ‘Fernery’ which they purchased on Flower Road in 1910 is nothing less than a beautiful oasis of natural beauty spread out today on 10 acres of land.
The baton was passed on to successive Principals, who spurred on by this same faith and love for God, successfully steered the school through the decades notwithstanding world wars, a civil war, security threats, a pandemic, challenges to educational curriculums, political unrest, an economic crisis and more.
Countless others have served this school with loyalty and devotion in numerous ways to ensure that all who entered through the red gates did not merely excel academically but had a holistic and value based learning experience resulting in young women who were independent, upright and not pretentious.
From its inception, the unity in diversity of many faiths, communities and abilities is a testament of nurturing individuals who are respectful and empathetic of all – ‘One family unbroken’.
Scores of students have been well supported throughout the years with access to a wide variety of co-curricular and extra-curricular activities which have helped build women leaders who are equipped to serve communities both locally and globally.
Reflecting on all that has been and all that it is – we give thanks for the courage, humility and indomitable spirit of all LCites and those who continue to serve with love and commitment.