The President’s Message

Dear Members,

Holy Family Convent now known as Holy Family Balika is now 154 years old. Since 1870 Holy Family Nuns have undertaken to administer the school. They are still continuing their precious service.154 years is a very long period of history, for any school. I am proud to state the dedication of Holy Family Nuns and they have  successfully managed to maintain discipline among the staff & students. It is also a heavy responsibility of a Catholic School Principal to lead the students out of darkness and hatred & violence into the light of divine & human love. Holy Family Convent has taught generations of students irrespective of race, religion & cast. I pay my heartfelt gratitude to our Founder Nuns, all the Past Principals, Present Principal, all the past and present Teachers for their dedicated service.

Our  School provides by gathering many sectors of the society. It  builds foundation to make them partners of the disciplined citizens of this country.

I still have vivid memories of my school days at Holy Family. I left the school in 1984. Present Familians enjoyed many facilities that we lacked at that time. I have enjoyed the company  and friendship during my period of time in the school. It gave me the opportunity to participate in each and every school event and I am so grateful to my Principals, Rev. Sisters & Teachers. I am proud to  have been  a student of  the prestigious school, Holy Family Convent.

The Past Pupils’ Association  has had a long history of dedication and service since its establishment in 1946. Past Presidents must have played  a  crucial role in maintaining traditions and ensuring the association’s continued success. Their efforts likely included proving support to  alumni, organizing events, and fostering a sense of community. I am proud to say that three generations, including my daughter and my mother have contributed to the school  in a meaningful way and have done so with great success. The phrase “flying colors” suggests that we achieved outstanding results or recognition. Also our Past pupils have been outstanding personalities in their respective careers & it  is explicit that their Alma Mater has molded them for what they are today.

It’s wonderful to hope for growth and active participation within an association. With more members, the collective impact on the school can be even stronger, creating a better environment for everyone.

SRIYANTHI DE SARAM – Attorney at law
PRESIDENT OF PPA HFC KURUNEGALA

My leadership  in the Past Pupils’ Association 2009-2014,2017-2025 was a significant moment of the school changing the School’s appearance to blue & white must have given it a fresh unified look. Renovating the Chapel , Grotto, buildings a new gate with LED  Lights was a nice touch, symbolizing growth & progress. Also  implemented CC TV with 20 cameras. Renovated  the school Chapel too.

A significant renovation project was done, giving the blue & white buildings a fresh and upgraded appearance, renovating  the stage and steps(Steps for both sides instead of front was the change), fixing the terrazzo flooring in the main hall and updating the quarry door must have really  transformed the space  with the blue beams. The combination of these elements likely added a touch of elegance and sophistication while maintaining the buildings original charm.

^{Support from the committee through providing resources like medical clinics for teachers, nutritious food and necessary gear like t shirts, track suits  and balls for net ball players played a key role in motivating the teams. This support, along with encouragement, likely boosted the teams morale and contributed to their success in winning both the Milo Trophy & National School Championships continuously for 13 consecutive years.  Me and my committee have personally attended for the final matches across the country each year to witness the  victories firsthand. It was quite an experience.}    

^{Sing along with Hezanites &  Ayemath Adaren, Tharuneth Dahasak where prominent vocalists participated to raise funds for managing expenses inclusive of members donations & contributions.( Managed to earn over LKR 1.1 mio from the 2nd & 3rd events)}

^{BRINGING REV.SISTER TRICILDA AS THE PRINCIPAL-}

^{Worked hard to make it happen and that the efforts, along with the  massive support and guidance, directions of the Bishop of Kurunegala have paid off. Bringing Rev. Sister Tricilda Fernando  on board must be a great step for the school. I was lucky to bring the letter of consent from Rev Sister Tricilda Fernando from Marawila and to handover it to the Chief Minister and get the approval . I was able to successfully navigate an important process!}

^{Christmas party and the welcome of Rev. Sister Tricilda Fernando.- 02.12.2012.}

^{Donated a copy printer to the school (Rs.550,000/- worth in 2013. )}

^{Donated a Projector & a white screen in 2014.}

^{Felicitated Rev. Sisters & Teachers in 2013 .12.29 with Lunch Buffet at  Bright Brovo Hotel.}

^{DONATED T-SHIRTS & TRACK SUITS -2018.08.03- Donated by Past Pupils.}

^{Held Aurudu Uthsawa (Sinhala & Tamil New Year Festival) from 2011 to 2019.Also  held several Christmas Parties. In 2017 brought fresh changes to the school buildings. Color washing the buildings in blue & white  for the 2nd time must have given it a vibrant, clean look. The addition of cladding in main hall  gave a modern touch. It can also help improve energy  efficiency and enhance the building’s durability.}

^{ANNUAL SCHOOL BUS INSURANCE AND REPAIRS – Around Rs.45,000/- , Repairs around ( Rs 26,500/-  to Rs.45,000/-) from 2009 -2019.} 

^{FELICITATION TO MRS AMALKA GUNATILLAKE – 2018.01.14}

^{Ongoing success and the consistent achievements, especially in winning the trophies annually by our Net ball  players! It was for our Past pupil Amalka’s dedication and hard work  was truly inspiring. (Gifted Rs.100,000/-)}

^{FIXING CLADDING AT MAIN HALL– First part- (Rs.195,000/-)}

^{SUDEW PRATHIBHA– INTER HOUSE CONCERT OF SCHOOL GRADE 6 – GRADE 10 STUDENTS- 2018.}

^{Singing, dancing, announcing and Drama Competition to improve students’ talents. Improving student’ talents requires a holistic approach  that combines both individual development and a supportive learning environment. Reflecting  on a significant moment from the past when Rev. Sister Raphael was the principal  and how  the competition  between houses was a memorable experience . It must have been rewarding to see Lourdes House came out on top.  I am proud to say, me and my  committee have  contributed  to helping the children improve their talents after  40 years.}

^{ANNUAL SPORTS MEET & PRIZE GIVING- Annual charges around Rs.8,000/- to Rs.15,000/-each year. Providing a 4 kilo cake for the winning marching squad is a habit.)}

^{PROVIDING A CAKE FOR THE SCHOOL DAY – Each year(around Rs.5,000/-to Rs.10,000/-)}

^{PROVIDING PLASTIC CHAIRS– RS.50,000/- (Donated twice)}

^{RENOVATION OF ARCHIVES -2018.02.18}

^{Renovated by color washing, donated racks/shelves & cupboards.}

^{ENGLISH DRAMA– Donated Rs. 20,000/-}

^{OPENING OF PPA MELBOURNE AUSTRALIA BRANCH ON 2018.02.25}

^{It was proposed by me and opened to operate under the Mother}

^Association.

^{MILO TOURNAMENT  -2018- Paid Rs.56,000/- for transport.} 

^{NATIONAL SCHOOL TOURNAMENT– 2018 – Paid Rs.40,000/-for accommodation.}

^{RENOVATION OF PRIMARY SCHOOL BUILINGS-2018.11.17}

^{Repaired primary school buildings. Color washed in blue & white gave a new look to the school, especially the old convent parlour.} 

^{WAXING MAIN HALL– RS.15,000/- (Annually prior to main events such as Prize Giving etc..)}

^{GATE MADE OF RUBBER FOR THE PRIMARY SCHOOL BUILDING was flexible, durable & gave safety.}

^{GUARD RAIL – Installing Guard rails along the school main hall  quarry door would enhance safety by providing support for students. Protective guarding, in general, are a boundary feature and may be a means to prevent or deter access to dangerous or off-limits areas while allowing light and visibility in a  greater way than a fence.}

^{SECURITY GATE HUT near the entrance where security personnel to monitor & control access. Providing a table & six chairs for meetings were very useful for students & teachers.(Rs.103,709/-).}

^{PROVIDED TWO BASE DRUMS FOR THE EASTERN BAND-( Rs 108,000/-)}

^{GETHANJALEE– Musical Eve-2019.03.01-FUND RAISING EVENT}

^{Musical Evening with Dhammika Bandara. Referring  to  songs of writing that analyzes and describes the meaning behind certain lyrics, while singing, while also acknowledging the music and lyrics’ copyrights, as well as any  incidents that may  have occurred in connection with those songs or artists.}

^{FILLING & LANDSCAPING  FLOOR AREA IN FRONT OF OFFICE– Rs.75,000/-}

^{NUTRITION PROGRAMME FOR NET BALL PLAYERS– 2019}

^{Continuous  annual programme before the Milo Tournament and National Schools Tournament. (Continued for 11 days prior to the Tournament.)}

^{Provided energy drinks for Net ball  players .}

^{REV. SISTER TRICILDA FERNANDO’S FAREWEL & WELCOME OF REV. SISTER PRIYANGANI PERERA – Held in 2019 December}

^{PLANTS INFRONT OF HOME SCIENCE ROOM– Rs.48,000/-}

^{BACK TO SCHOOL-2020.01.25}

^{“Back to school” event  or reunion, where past students, or alumni, return to their school reminisce about their school days. It’s a time to reconnect with old friends, meet former teachers &  Principals, & reflect on the  experiences that shaped their time at school. These events often serve as a celebration of the memories & the bonds formed during those years. It was a great way to relive those moments and  catch up on where everyone is now.}

^{CLEANING SCHOOL TOILETS –Paid to Supershine Cleaners- Rs.112,000/-.}

^{RENOVATION OF SICK ROOMS AND SRAMADANAYA– 2020.06.24}

^{Provided beds, Mattresses, bed sheets curtains, teapore & other necessary items. New Sick Room Ceiling.}

^{Inclusive of color washing, fixing locks & doors.}

^{Sick Rooms Ceiling Rs 25,000/-}

^{Providing Mattresses & Beds Rs. 29,700/-}

^{Curtains for sick rooms Rs.17,000/-}

^{Painting Rs.2,800/-}

^{Bed sheets- Rs 1,395/=}

^{Providing furniture & other goods. Rs.29,700/-}

^{Sramadanaya  conducted by  the Association with past pupils  before  the school reopening  after covid period. (Main Hall too was cleaned by the past pupils.)}

^{PREVENTING FROM A NATIONAL SCHOOL}

^{The  PPA HFC Kurunegala, as a responsible body of the School,  delved into the whole issue of naming our school for the list of National Schools, took necessary actions, met the relevant Government Authorities and Officials and on  top of all that, we did our  utmost best to protect our dear alma mater. The said issue was sorted out. Therefore our school  will not become a  National School. As per our request to the Government Authorities, removed our School name from the said list. The right reverend Bishop of Kurunegala has  been a significant support for  our school.  It’s wonderful  to acknowledge and express gratitude for our Lords’ assistance. A thoughtful thank you note or gesture would be a meaningful  way to show appreciation our Lords’ help and many other ways he’s contributed.}  

^{PROVIDING EMBROIDED SCHOOL FLAG– 2021- (Rs.63,000/-)}

 

^{PREPARATION FOR SESQUICENTENNIAL JUBILEE}

^{RENOVATION OF THE CHAPEL during covid period was quite an interesting & significant project. After 150 years of existence, wiring the chapel, providing                                                                                                                                                                     shades and sound system with six microphones (Rs.277,750/-) must have really transformed the space. The addition of locks for huge cupboards & doors also seems like a practical & essential upgrade, especially for ensuring security. (Rs.364,000/-). Comprehensive renovation & update for a building or facility with a focus on aesthetics functionality and a 150th Jubilee celebration, building interior update  & fresh ash & white paint for all the buildings to give it a modern clean look.}

^{Creating the Jubilee Song – Lyrics by the President, Music by Mr. Denister Perera, Sung by School girls & immediate past pupils. (Rs.120,000/-)}

^{* Renovating the gate, with new LED Lights for a brighter and more welcoming appearance,(Rs.52,000/-)}

^{*Adding stickers for logos to update the branding and a fresh look.}

^{* Entrance renovation}

^{Fixing & displaying the Jubilee logo at the entrance as a center piece for the 150th celebration.(Rs.63,000/-) (Jubilee logo art work(Rs.4,020/-)}

^{* Outdoor Aesthetics.}

^{Flower for statues to bring lively decorative touch.(Rs.11,000/-)}

^{* Main hall renovation.}

^{Adding cladding (Rs.700,000/-) to the balance portion of the main hall to improve it’s overall design.}

^{* Installing lights, shades & fans to enhance the comfort & atmosphere in the main hall.}

^{* Home Science Room Renovation.}

^{*Revamping the Home Science Room to make it more modern and functional .}

^{*Curtains & furniture.}

^{Adding new curtains for the new bottle green &  providing 17  teak chairs(Rs.176,000) & two teak tables (Rs.276,000/-)for the Home Science Room brought high standard for visitors.}

^{*Convent Renovation}

^{Renovating the convent including the addition of a sofa set (Rs.100,000/-)to create a comfortable space at the palour for the Rev. Sisters & visitors.}

^{Installing curtains for the Rev. Sister Principal’s Room to enhance privacy and comfort.}

^{Color washing- Living area & rooms}

^{This plan surely enhanced the overall environment & showcase the Jubilee in a meaningful way.}

^{Jubilee day- Lights- inside, outside (Rs.40,000/-), sounds(Rs.45,000/-) Generator (Rs.25,000/-), chairs (Rs.11,000/-), Dinner buffet for VIP visitors (Rs.200,000/-)}

 ^{TALENT EVENING-2022.04.29}

^{A very amazing  & exciting  experience to see  our talented  members shine  on stage  for the first time. A very  colorful & successful event for the first time.}

^{MILO TOURNAMENT -2022}

^{Nutrition programme- 15 days energy drinks & food provided. Annual Participation of past pupils & committee members.}

^{ONE DAY EXCURTION FOR NET BALL CHAMPIONS FOR THE 13TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR– 2022.12.18- AT AMAYA LAKE HOTEL- DAMBULLA.}

^{Organized a fantastic event to celebrate the Net Ball Champions for the  13th consecutive year. Giving them time to play group games, buffet lunch for 72 players and enjoy themselves definitely added to the fun and appreciation.}

^{COMMITTEE VISITED CARMEL AKKA AT WENNAPPUWA– Twice}

^{VISITING PAST PRINCIPALS WITHIN A DAY-2023.11.26}

^{A very meaningful & well organized event. Visiting Past Principals to show respect and gratitude  for their service was such a great way to honor their contribution. What a productive day! We started from Marawila with Rev. Sister Sriyani Rodrigo and ended in Kolpetty after seeing Rev. Sister Henrietta Perera.( For gifts & vouches – Rs.156,510/-)}

^{VISITING  REV. SISTER ANNE MARY – 2024.01.24}

^{It was a wonderful visit. It must have meant a lot to her to be recognized for her contributions. Exactly for what she has done for the school & for the science section.}

^{INSTALLING GUTTERS AND WADIMBU– 2024 02 25}

^{Inclusive of Main Building, Right hand side building, chapel and other buildings.(Rs.1,565,920/-).}                                                                                                                               

^{INSTALLING GUTTERS AND WADIMBU– 2024 .10.28}

^{Office building. (Rs.800,000/-)}

^{Installing gutters and wadimbu grate system at a school is a great way to enhance its appearance. Ensure proper drainage, and protect  from rain damage.}

^{Appearance & image: Well-designed gutters &  grates contribute to the overall aesthetic of the school, making it look well-maintained & organized. The right materials & design  can complement the school’s architecture.}

^{Rainwater Management: Gutters efficiently channel rainwater away from the building’s foundation, preventing water damage like erosion, leaks or mold. It also helps in  maintain the landscape around the school, preventing puddles or flooding.}

^{Safety of hygiene : Grates prevent debris from entering the drainage system, reducing blockages and ensuring smooth water flow. preventing.} 

^{Cost Savings: Protecting the building’s foundation and exterior from water damage can save on long-term repair costs, especially when considering the structural integrity of the school.}

^{RENOVATED  SCHOOL NAME BOARD WITH LED LIGHTS – FOR THE 2024 MAY FEAST. (Rs54,000/-)}

^{ANNUAL PRIZE GIVING OF THE SCHOOL}

^{In 2011 we have started to decorate the stage at this most prestigious event with flowers. It was rewarding to see my ideas come to life with the help of the committee. We managed to do it upto 2019.}  

^{REQUEST RECEIVED TO OPEN A BRANCH  IN LONDON– We have given the approval to open a Branch in London as per their request. Inauguration is pending.}

^{FAMILIANS’ NIGHT}

^{Familians’ Night became a great tradition of our Association. Selling tickets to members to fund the event instead of using the Association’s money is a smart way to keep it self-sustaining.} 

• ^{2017 –Wayo}
• ^{2018- Wayo}
• ^{2019- Billy Fernando & 242}
• ^{2022- Dinesh Subasinghe & Tone Poem}
• ^{2023- Hector Dais with D Major.}

 

^{ANNUAL TRIPS}

• ^{2010-Amaya Lake-Dambulla}
• ^{2011-Hotel Tangerine}
• ^{2012-Hotel Suisse Kandy}
• ^{2013-Hotel Hilltop Kandy}
• ^{2014- Browns Beach- Negombo}
• ^{2017-Amaya Lake –Dambulla}
• ^{2018-Pegasus Reaf-Wattala}
• ^{2019-Hotel Topaz-Kandy}
• ^{2023- Victoria Golf- Digana}
• ^{2024 –Lake View Terrace}