S. Thomas’ College, Gurutalawa (STCG), recognized as the largest residential school campus in Sri Lanka, has opened its doors for the 2026 academic year. Admissions are now open for Nursery and Grade 1, with a few remaining spots available for Grades 2 to 11. The school accommodates both day scholars and boarders, offering classes in English medium, Tamil bilingual, and Sinhala bilingual streams, providing a wide range of options to suit students’ needs.

Founded in 1942 during World War II, STCG began as a temporary relocation of S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia, to the hills of Gurutalawa. The campus was established on a donated farm estate and has since developed into a fully functional boarding school. The school’s educational model, inspired by a Scottish boarding school, emphasizes holistic development, aiming to nurture independence, courage, leadership, and responsibility in its students through a balanced combination of academics, outdoor activities, and character-building programs.

The STCG campus spans 45 acres in a scenic highland area, providing a safe, spacious, and serene environment for students. Boarding facilities include a fully equipped sick-room with 24/7 nursing care, hygienic meals, and modern amenities to ensure student well-being. Parents can remain connected with their children through video calls, giving peace of mind even to those who live far away. The school maintains a strong academic focus, with a 1:14 teacher-student ratio, and more than half of its teachers are university graduates, ensuring quality education and individual attention.

STCG blends traditional values with modern learning methods. While the school encourages digital literacy through supervised technology use, it also promotes discipline by limiting personal device access. Students are encouraged to participate in a wide array of extracurricular activities, including rugby, cricket, football, basketball, squash, swimming, and horse-riding, the only school in Sri Lanka to offer horse-riding. Other activities, such as agriculture, music, photography, and scouting, further enrich students’ learning experiences. Upon completing their O-Level studies, students can seamlessly continue their A-Level education at S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia, an exclusive pathway for Gurutalawa students.

Above all, STCG aims to provide more than academic excellence. It strives to shape students into confident, responsible, and compassionate young men who are well-prepared for life beyond the classroom. The school offers a safe, structured, and supportive environment, combining heritage and tradition with modern educational practices, preparing its students for a future of success, independence, and leadership.