Nostalgic memories on a notable milestone
Former Principal/Headmaster of St. Benedict's College Primary, W. G. A. Leonard Fernando recalls his 37 years at the school, which celebrated 150 years this month
When the invitation reached me to participate in the Sesquicentennial celebration of St. Benedict's College on Friday, July 10, I was delighted. With it came many nostalgic memories. My career at St. Benedict's College (Primary) as teacher, Principal / Headmaster took me down memory lane from September 1963 to August 2000.
One hundred and fifty years in the life of any educational institution is a notable milestone - St. Benedict's College has been founded and nurtured enormously by the selfless service of devoted and dedicated De La Salle Brothers.
When I joined the tutorial staff of St. Benedict's College on September 1, 1963, then, Director Rev. Bro. Lawrence Justinian directed me to the Principal Primary Rev. Bro. Victor Thomas who welcomed me. I was made the class teacher of grade 5A2 - English medium. I was teaching the students of grades 4 and 5 and gained immense experience.
In 1978 I was assigned to be the master-in-charge of prefects and discipline. Then former Director Rev. Bro. Alexander Cyrillus appointed me as the vice principal of the primary in 1986. During this period as vice principal I worked under two directors and three principals.
In May 1994 I was appointed Principal/ Headmaster of St. Benedict's College Primary and it was officially announced at the staff meeting held together with the primary and upper school by Director Rev. Bro. Camillus Silva. I accepted this prestigious appointment unhesitatingly - it was a challenge to be the first lay principal of St. Benedict's College Primary.
I appreciated the faith and trust the La Sallian Brothers placed in me. Although my tasks and responsibilities were heavier than before I worked with great enthusiasm and devotion. I was determined to work without a vice principal as I thought of all my staffers as assistants.
My attention was focused on the improvement of the religious environment, discipline, education, computer science, sports and cultural activities. Therefore my intention was to give the primary students an all - round education.
Eminent Old Bens were invited as chief guests at the induction ceremonies of the prefects for the young Bens to be inspired to build their future.
The new primary education system is scrupulously followed at St. Benedict's primary. Our students did remarkably well in the Grade 5 government scholarship examination during my time, thanks to the efforts of the teachers who worked with dedication and devotion.
Computer science was all the rage then and we too were quick to follow. 12 Aptiva IBM computers were gifted to our primary by the generous Old Bens of UK and the children from grades one to five had the opportunity to benefit from this.
A new primary building was built during my tenure of office. Once a dream, it became a reality on March 26, 1999. The three-storeyed building had a hall on the top floor and 17 classrooms. The children went in on May 24, 1999. This dream became a reality thanks to the Old Bens the world over, spearheaded by the everactive Sri Lankan contingent.
I was privileged to follow the principals' conference held at Singapore in 1996 where many La Sallian educators participated from various countries.
On May 3, 2008 at St. Joseph' s Novitiate, 130, De La Salle Street, Colombo 15, I was conferred the distinguished La Sallian Award in sincere appreciation of my outstanding performance and immense contribution in the field of Lasallian education and staunch loyalty to the La Sallian family.
Looking back, I feel contented that a large number of Benedictines who were under my tutelage have achieved success educationally and professionally.
I was inspired, impressed and assisted in word and deed by Rev. Brothers Edward Vaz, Placidus Fernando, Hendry Dissanayake, Denzil Perera, Philip of Jesus, Bertram Perera, Randolph Arsekularathne, Nimal Gurusinghe, Benjamine Gunathilaka, late Lawrence Justinian, late Victor Thomas, late Alexander Cyrillus and late Lewis of Jesus who are indelibly marked on my memory. To them I extend a fragrant bouquet of thanks.