In 2025, Bishop’s College turned 150 years old, and the celebrations were nothing short of extraordinary. They began with a week that had everyone talking right through the year, and concluded beautifully with a final five-day celebration, as the school stepped into its 151st year. The attention to detail, creativity, and sheer standard of execution were truly impressive.

Founders’ Day on 21 January began with a meaningful service at St Michael’s, Polwatta, presided over by the Bishop of Colombo, followed by the flag hoisting and blessing at the school. Soon after, the Hewisi Band and Western Band delivered a fabulous fusion performance, and just as the final beats ended, the doors of the first floor of the newly built Roshanne Wijesuriya Building opened dramatically to the school’s performance choir ‘Voce Omnibus’ singing Sister Act’s “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee” on the balcony.  

Thereafter, the celebrations saw the issuance of a special commemorative stamp and cover, with the Deputy Postmaster General in attendance. This was followed by the launch of “The Sesquicentennial” - the Jubilee edition of the school magazine and thereafter the opening of “Legacy thru a lens” - a beautifully curated photography exhibition by the Media Club. 

On the second day, the school’s prefects’ guild organised an old-fashioned carnival at the school grounds, which even featured a drone dropping candy onto a delighted crowd. On the third day of celebrations, the Oriental Dance Society presented Dwani - a carefully crafted celebration of drums and dance. The performances reflected a deep respect for traditional Sinhala and Tamil classical dance forms, brought to life with precision, excellence, discipline and grace.

Teach the Beat, a production by the school’s staff on Day Four left a lasting impression. Performed entirely by the academic and non-academic staff, many of whom were not trained dancers or performers, the show reflected an extraordinary level of commitment and preparation. Watching Teach the Beat led to a deeper realisation. When teachers commit to something with such care and excellence, they do far more than entertain. They teach by example. It was a quiet but powerful statement about leadership, teamwork, and the importance of doing everything with intention and pride.

The five-day celebration concluded with a beautifully curated high tea honouring 150 past teachers, along with present members of staff who have served for over 25 years. It quietly acknowledged the teachers whose dedication and service have shaped countless lives and built the foundation of the school. The event was a dignified and deeply meaningful way to conclude a milestone year.

Taken together, the celebrations marking 150 years of Bishop’s College were a powerful reflection of what can be achieved when excellence, care, and attention to detail guide every endeavour. From the reverence of Founders’ Day and the joy of the Fair, to the artistic excellence of Dwani, the deeply moving Teach the Beat, and the gracious honouring of past teachers, every element carried purpose and pride.

Under the leadership of Principal Ms Chemali Goonetileke Herath, ably and closely supported by the Vice Principal Ms Chrishnika Galbadage and the 150th anniversary committee, these celebrations were thoughtfully brought together with clarity, warmth, and vision. What stood out was not merely the scale of the events, but the consistency of values reflected in every detail.

More than a celebration, this was leadership by example. When teachers demonstrate such commitment and excellence, they teach lessons far beyond the classroom. Students observe, absorb, and inevitably begin to emulate them in their own lives and work.

In doing so, Bishop’s College reminded not only its own community but the wider society of the enduring truth behind its motto: Non sibi sed omnibus — not for oneself, but for all.

As the school steps confidently into its 151st year, these celebrations will be remembered not just for their beauty and brilliance but for the values they so clearly upheld.