Horizon College International Celebrates Nine Extraordinary Years of Distinct and Holistic Academics
Established in 2009, Horizon College International ( HCI), ensconced within Malabe’s lush greenery has for nearly a decade been inspiring lifelong learning and transforming young lives.
Proudly pursuing a goal of providing a distinct education, Horizon College’s motto of ‘Suos Cultores Scientia Coronat’ or ‘ Knowledge Crowns Those Who Seek Her’ bears witness to its undeniable spirit.
Based on the passion and vision of Upul Daranagama, Chairman and Founder of HCI, the college is reaching unparalleled heights. He says, “The heart of our success is an unwavering commitment to students, to teaching and learning, and focusing on putting our students first. We have witnessed phenomenal achievements within our short nine years of existence and are on course to become the top tier among international schools in the country.”
The scope of this purpose built college is a testament to its strengths. Having begun with just 95 students and 15 teachers from Playgroup up to Year 5 with just one class each, the college now has more than 2000 students following the British based Edexcel curriculum with an expert and well- trained teaching cadre of over 200 with eight parallel classes up to the advanced level stream.
Since opening its doors, Horizon College has experienced tremendous growth and built an excellent reputation for creating an international school advocating Sri Lankan values and moulding a younger generation of global citizens.
Eloquent and erudite, Maryanne Hills, Principal of HCI since the inception of the college noted, “Though we follow an international curriculum we go by Sri Lanka culture and values. In fact we consider our value system as very sacred and we want to mould global citizens with feet firmly on the ground.”
HCI’s strong teacher- student relationships within the context of a caring closeknit community helps students develop their full potential. All staff including faculty, administration and even those involved in support facilities demonstrate a spirit of cooperation and willingness to help others going beyond the expectations of his or her job to serve the institution.
Also unlike most international schools in the country, students are also taught their mother tongue and based on their faith, religion is a compulsory subject. The principles of discipline, honesty, equality and compassion make HCI students role models among their peers.
Throughout its nine years, HCI has proudly showcased outstanding academic achievements. Annually, HCI students are awarded Edexcel prizes and the pass rates among the Primary and Secondary streams is very impressive. The holistic education at HCI is complemented by its array of modern facilities offered to students including modern laboratories, libraries and sporting facilities including a swimming pool, basketball court, gym, and a large playground. HCI’s sporting prowess is also continuously showcased with wins in cricket, swimming, netball, table tennis, basketball etc.
Vibrant societies and activities including the English Literary Union, Science Club, Interact Club, Media Unit, ICT Club, Photography Club etc., help students expand their intellectual and aesthetic abilities.
Catering to the tremendous growth and excellent reputation, the college established its first branch of Horizon College at Udahamulla, Nugegoda three years ago.
Unique to the college is its bus transportation service to and from school. Covering an impressive nine routes, HCI’s own shuttle service offers students and staff the safest and most reliable way to travel to and from the college.
Another novel initiative spearheaded by HCI is its ‘Kids in Action Pre-School and Childcare Centers’. This chain of Montessori schools located in Park Road, Pannipitiya, Udahamulla and shortly Kaduwela, staffed by exceptionally qualified professional teachers provides quality, interactive learning experiences that encourage a child’s social, emotional, spiritual, physical, and intellectual growth. Reaching out to working parents, HCI also provides a comfortable and homely environment through its Child Care Center where parents are assured of a safe and reliable place for their children.
As HCI’s continues to be a trailblazer for quality learning, the nation too is enriched as a result of its values and vision.