Gateway_Annual_Review_2020

Gateway College Annual Review 2020 



Gateway College Annual Review 2020  5

Gateway College  Annual Review 2020  6

The Gateway College theme for 2020/21, As our mission statement claims, we “Brave the Present. Rise to the Future.” “adapt smoothly to change” and we display encapsulates the College’s determination to “speedy action with determination to get things embrace the “new normal” in a challenging year. done.” Gateway being a Microsoft Showcase School was fully prepared and able to transition Despite unscheduled school closures during fully online. Ensuring no student was left behind, COVID-19 lockdowns, Gateway schools left no Gateway even made sure all students sat their stone unturned to ensure students did not forego public examinations despite school closures, any aspect of school that was important. An curfew, and even when students were in hospital, excellent teaching and learning programme that diagnosed with COVID-19. led to the school being recognised as a “Centre of Excellence” by none other than Microsoft, Gateway embarked on a new teaching and an innovative initiative of online examinations, learning concept – hybrid learning, where we virtual Avurudu and Vesak celebrations, online built on the successes of flipped, blended, remote, sports programmes, a soft skills programme, and distance and online learning, to intentionally the formation and running of clubs and societies, create learner-centred experiences that are are a few examples. profoundly personalised, relevant and engaging, allowing our learners to be prepared for the future. 

Contents  4 Gateway College 24 Framework Gateway College 6 School crest 26 Administrative structure Annual Review 2020 7 Our vision and mission 40 Facilities 8 School song 45 Policies 9 School houses 46 Security, health, and hygiene 9 Mascot 47 Community and ethos 10 The history of Gateway 13 Credentials 48 The Gateway experience 14 Leadership 50 Students 51 Community 16 Chairman’s message 54 All-round excellence 18 Board of Directors 58 Pursuing distinction 20 Educationalists at the helm 75 Successful futures 22 Team Leaders 76 Well-being 23 Group Managers 78 Events 80 Teachers 2 81 Nurturing education 84 Empathetic care and emotional well-being 86 Constant development

Contents 144 Related organisations within the Gateway Group 90 Innovation 91 Futuristic technology 95 Curricular dynamism 100 Future focus 101 Supportive preparation 101 Educational opportunity 107 Alumni associations 110 COVID-19 response 148 Future 112 Communal responsibility 150 Looking to the future 114 Our progress across the year 124 Star performers  126 Academic Gateway College 131 Non-academic Annual Review 2020 3

Gateway College Gateway Annual Review 2020 College 6 School crest 7 Our vision and mission 8 School song 9 School houses 9 Mascot 10 The history of Gateway 13 Credentials 4

Gateway College Gateway College Annual Review 2020 Contents 5

School crest Gateway College The elements within the School Crest signify the essence of The Globe signifies international education, while the Arrow Gateway College. represents Gateway’s advancement in technology. The colours used in the Crest have significance of their own: Blue The Book depicts knowledge, while the Torch signifies and Grey signify School colours; Red represents power and energy; enlightenment. and White represents purity. The three Interwoven Squares represent teamwork and a sense The two Lions holding the shield depict courage and bravery, and of belonging between Parent, Teacher, and Student, whereas the represent the Sri Lankan identity of the School. three Colours of the diagonals, Orange, Green, and Maroon, signify the communities of Sri Lanka and identify the School as being The Golden Eagle represents the School’s highest award in sports. multi-ethnic and multireligious. Gateway College Annual Review 2020 6

Our Our vision mission Energise, Enlighten, Empower Adding value The vision of Gateway College is to Energise with a healthy • Create an educational environment that naturally drives value body and Enlighten with a healthy mind and Empower one and addition at school as well as at home. all to be good citizens. • Develop an educational culture that enhances spiritual, moral, emotional, physical, and intellectual development. Gateway College • Provide opportunities for every student and teacher to reach his or her highest potential. Tenacity and zeal • Steadfastly pursue excellence in education. • Adapt smoothly to change. • Speedy action with determination to get things done. • Open-minded, winning attitude. Education for tomorrow • Consistently benchmark world-class educational systems to build best practices. • Facilitate an open environment to encourage innovative and creative thinking with prudent risk-taking. • Provide state-of-the-art facilities and resources to meet tomorrow’s needs. • Create a research-oriented culture and a passion for lifelong learning. Community of spirit • Share success with humility. • Care for community and the environment. • Build “family spirit” through mutual trust and respect. • Inculcate Sri Lankan values and culture in a pluralistic setting. • Promote a sense of belonging to the alma mater and the motherland. Gateway College Annual Review 2020 7

School Nurtured as we are with understanding and love song We discipline ourselves no orders from above Teacher, parent, pupil, with perfect rapport Gateway O Gateway Shoulder to shoulder we will march to the fore We pledge to tread thy glorious way A beacon, a light we shall be Gateway O Gateway For fellow beings your path to see // We pledge to tread thy glorious way A beacon, a light we shall be Gateway to learning emblazons our crest For fellow beings your path to see // Ready we follow, daring the best In work or play the grey and blue flies high Higher, still higher is our rallying cry Gateway O Gateway We pledge to tread thy glorious way A beacon, a light we shall be For fellow beings your path to see // Gateway College Gateway College Annual Review 2020 8

School Mascot houses School Houses are named after the first four Prime Ministers of The shield wielding Lions in the School Crest, standing for Sri Lanka: Don Stephen Senanayake, Dudley Shelton Senanayake, bravery and our Sri Lankan heritage, along with the Golden Eagle, Sir John Lionel Kotelawala, and Solomon West Ridgeway Dias constitute the School’s mascot: the “Gateway Griffin”. The mascot Bandaranaike. The choice of such distinguished personalities to is a legendary creature famed for its intelligence, power, honesty, grace House names underlines the emphasis laid by the school in discipline, and majesty, combining the King of the Beasts and developing an affinity to the motherland and acting with a sense of the King of all Birds. The Mascot can be seen encouraging our responsibility to her children. This is also a way of signifying the students in the sports field and goes by the pet name “Griffy” respect the school affords to statesmen who have left an indelible mark on our society and for their individual contribution towards defining the spirit of Sri Lankans. Gateway College Gateway College Annual Review 2020 9

The history of Gateway Gateway College was founded by Ralph Ignatius Thomas Alles, “The child leaves our gates a visionary dedicated to the cause of the Nation’s education. as a confident, compassionate Educated at St. Aloysius’ College, Galle and St. Anthony’s College, citizen, who has the ability Kandy, R I T Alles gained national recognition as the founding to move around in society, father of D S Senanayake College, Colombo, one of one who is equipped with Sri Lanka’s leading educational institutions. the skills of surviving in this complicated world.” Prior to founding Gateway College, R I T Alles received training from the Cambridge Institute of Education, served as a teacher R I T Alles at Royal College, Colombo, was Principal of Zahira College, Colombo, and acted as State Secretary of Education. Today, Gateway College embodies R I T Alles’ belief of providing holistic education and moulding students who are international in nature, but Sri Lankan at heart. His ethos and philosophy are embedded in our vision and mission. Gateway College Gateway College Annual Review 2020 10

Gateway College Gateway College 11 Annual Review 2020

The history of Gateway Gateway College 2020 Moving to a hybrid model of teaching and learning. Even in a challenging year Gateway 2019 thrived due to its early embracement of technology. Gateway College 2018 Annual Review 2020 2013 Unveiling of the state-of-the-art 50m pool, equipped to Olympic pool standards, at 2009 Gateway College Negombo. This is the first of its kind in an International school. 2007 2005 Gateway College Ratmalana was opened, bringing a state-of-the-art football ground 2002 and modern pavilion to the Dehiwala and Ratmalana schools. 2000 Gateway College Dehiwala was established as a result of the acquisition of the 1999 American International School, Dehiwala by the Gateway Group, and its amalgamation with the Gateway College Bambalapitiya school. 1997 The remaining sections of Gateway College Kandy were relocated to the new site. 12 Expansion of Gateway College Bambalapitiya to include Year 7 and Year 8. Gateway College Negombo opened at a scenic location between Negombo Road and the lagoon. Since then, the school has thrived and expanded at a rapid pace and acquired several adjacent blocks of land to accommodate the expansion. Gateway International School became Gateway College, and was relocated to the new and current premises of Royal Gardens, Rajagiriya. The Foundation section of Gateway Colombo was moved to 175, Castle Street, Colombo 8. Similarly, the Secondary School expanded further at Rodney Street, Colombo 8. Gateway College Kandy, expanded its premises from Anniewatte to Asgiriya, where the school’s foundation and Key Stage 1 sections were housed. The first purpose-built building, on 1st Lane off Gothami Road, was completed and named the “Millennium Tower” as it was completed in year 2000. The school grew rapidly in number from its humble beginnings. Gateway acquired the Kandy International School, which later became Gateway College Kandy. Establishment of Gateway International School Bambalapitiya at Vajira Road. Gateway College, then known as Gateway International School, first opened its doors to 33 students who were supported by eight teachers. The school then operated from two locations with the Secondary School at Rodney Street and the Primary School at Gothami Road.

Credentials Gateway is proud of its many credentials, which range from formal accreditation and excellent examination results to campuses and environments that support holistic education. We believe that all these credentials put together make Gateway a foremost seat of learning in Sri Lanka. Gateway is recognised as: Gateway also provides: • An International Teaching Institution of Pearson Edexcel • University pathway programmes with A/Ls through organisations • An Associate School of Cambridge International such as NCC Education, UK • A Microsoft Showcase School • A broad and enriched curriculum, including STEM, robotics, innovation studios, maths labs etc. • A Duke of Edinburgh Independent Award Centre • An emphasis on the arts through drama, music, fine arts, etc. • An accredited SAT test centre of the College Board, USA • International exposure with educational excursions and university • A registered institution of the London Academy of Music and summer camps Dramatic Arts (LAMDA) • Community Service, Work Experience, University Counselling and • A member school of the Educational Collaborative for Volunteering, Internship, Skills and Sport and Adventure offered International Schools (ECIS) that is headquartered in London through the Founder's Award during A/L years • Microsoft Centre for Excellence • Purpose-built campuses with modern facilities for all its schools • SLT EdTech Specialist School • A healthy student/teacher ratio of 10:1, combined with continuous professional development of teachers, both locally an internationally Gateway has achieved: • The highest number of High Achiever Awards at the Annual • A family environment with rich cultural, religious, and ethnic diversity Edexcel Awards, during the last nine years • An exemplary track record in sporting/co-curricular activity achievements, with a number of Gateway students representing Sri Lanka in athletics, swimming, basketball, netball, chess, rowing, football, tennis, badminton, karate, and scrabble • Prestigious university destinations for students, including the Ivy League in the USA, Russell Group in the UK, and Go8 in Australia Gateway College Gateway College Annual Review 2020 13

Gateway College Leadership Annual Review 2020 16 Chairman’s message 18 Board of Directors 20 Educationalists at the helm 22 Team Leaders 23 Group Managers 14

Leadership Gateway College 15 Annual Review 2020

Gateway College Leadership Annual Review 2020 Chairman’s message 16

Chairman’s message 2020 was a year that will not The theme for the year “BRAVE THE PRESENT. RISE TO THE soon be forgotten: Certainly, FUTURE.” encompassed the Gateway spirit as we faced a year it was one for the history books. like no other. Moving all teaching and learning activities online It was a year that tested our would have been a herculean task had it not been for the creative resilience and adaptability as thinkers on our team who had already got things underway a few individuals, as communities and years ago, which established the school as a Microsoft Showcase as nations. School and more recently, a Centre for Excellence. Watching every student get on board and continue each term’s work seamlessly It was a year that added the words pandemic, quarantine, and is indeed a testament to the values on which the organisation lockdown to the vocabulary of even our youngest students in the runs. The year 2020 has given us much to be grateful for and Foundation School. As a school we were challenged to find new we at Gateway College appreciate the support of everyone who ways to reach students, effective methods to teach students and pulled together to ensure that our students would not miss out efficient approaches to ensure the well-being of all our students on a valuable year of learning. The lesson content may not have who were faced with something wholly unfamiliar and unsettling. always been what was planned at the beginning of the year, but the Despite these challenges, this year’s annual review is heartening outcome of lessons learnt, skills developed, and knowledge gained as it shows with what courage the Gateway Colleges faced the year. has far surpassed our expectation. As a school our responsibility is, and always will be, to build Our choices, decisions and actions of today will be instrumental curiosity, facilitate learning and thus support students from the in shaping tomorrow. No one can know for certain what the future time they walk through our gates until the time they take their holds but we can be confident in the knowledge that Gateway place in society as responsible, civic-minded young people. College will be ready for whatever comes. Everything we did over the past year was done with this in mind. Aware that “learning” in the traditional sense could not take Dr Harsha Alles place, the school focused on giving opportunities for students Chairman to display their skill in drama, music, and dance. Through the multiple virtual events our students gained confidence in their Leadership own abilities, upgraded their technical skills and had a lot of fun in the process! Additionally, getting students involved in the PCR project allowed them to focus on ways in which they could be of use to the community; the project was a resounding success and I believe that so many life lessons have been learnt in the process. The importance and benefits of a holistic education have been expounded by educationists over the years and it is something that Gateway College has always had at its heart, thanks to a founder who himself was a man who believed wholeheartedly in the importance of a well-rounded character. The Founder’s Award; which includes the elements of Volunteering, Internship, Skills/ Sports, and Adventure; was launched for the very purpose of supporting students achieve success in multiple spheres. This initiative will ensure the longevity of our Founder’s dream of producing multi-skilled citizens. Gateway College Annual Review 2020 17

Board of Directors Leadership Dr Harsha Alles Dr Alles was also the architect in setting one of the best international schools, Chairman – Gateway Group up The International Schools of Sri Lanka Gateway College, from bottom up within (TISSL) as its Founder Chairman. TISSL is a span of only twenty years. “Gateway College will rise to meet any the umbrella organisation consisting of the challenge and we will conquer.” leading international schools in Sri Lanka. Being an active teacher and administrator, He also represents Sri Lanka in the Advisory Mrs Alles focused on the discipline and the Dr Harsha Alles is a doctor of medicine by Committee of The International Career and holistic development of the students. This profession and holds an MBBS, and a PhD College Counselling Conference (IC3). dual focus was instrumental in elevating the He was a lecturer at the Medical Faculty Dr Alles has been appointed as a member standard of the schools she was involved of the University of Colombo prior to of the National Education Commission by in. In early years of Gateway, Mrs Alles assuming duties as Chairman of Gateway. His Excellency the President of Sri Lanka. also concentrated on developing leadership He is credited with putting the Gateway He currently serves also as a member of the skills of the students as well as the usage of brand on the map, as a provider of “Task Force for Education” that has been English Language in the school environment. technology-based, high-quality education established under the Ministry of Education This focus made the students more confident through a large network of institutions that for the implementation of new education and engaged in school activities. include 5 international schools, 2 national reforms in the country. curriculum schools, a graduate school, and Concentrating on these areas of pastoral over 12 training centres spread across the Mrs Rohini Alles care, Mrs Alles ensured that the students country. Some of Gateway’s educational Managing Director were independent, confident, and ready programmes have been used in 12 countries, to take on higher challenges. Elegantly in three continents. Dr Alles is also a Director “It takes exceptional strength of and impeccably dressed at all times, of the Universal College Lanka that offers character to stay strong when faced Mrs Alles, has the ability to walk with Monash University programmes in Sri Lanka. with adversity. Be exceptional, the kings yet not lose the common touch. She future needs you.” is equally comfortable talking to a Head of He has won two “Young Scientists Mrs Rohini Alles is an inspirational leader of State as well as the school gardener. Her Scholarship” awards and a Presidential education for succeeding in different roles in “firm, friendly, and fair” principle that Award for research. In 2000, he was different settings. She started her career as a supersedes every action taken by her made recognised as “The Outstanding Young teacher of the largest school in the country, it possible for her to be respected even by Person of the Year” for his contributions Royal College Colombo; became the Deputy those who opposed her. Especially in an era towards IT education for children. In 2003, Principal of a co-ed government school, where female empowerment is encouraged he was adjudged the Gold Winner of the President’s College; and finally supported and celebrated, Mrs Alles’ experience during CIMA Pinnacle Awards as the “Outstanding her husband, late Mr R I T Alles to establish her lifetime, is an inspiration to all teachers Businessman of the Year.” In April 2018, the and educators. Chartered Management Institute named him the “Best CEO of the Year” in the services Mrs Rohini Alles was awarded the Lifetime category of large organisations. Achievement Award by The International Schools of Sri Lanka (TISSL) for her outstanding service in education in 2019. TISSL initiated the Lifetime Achievement Awards to recognise dedicated educators who have altered the course of education in Sri Lanka. Gateway College Annual Review 2020 18

Board of Directors prestige during the years of his stewardship. Mr Herath’s aptitude for resolving problems of parents, teachers, students, and support staff cordially, is an invaluable gift in a head of an institution, and therefore is highly admired by all who work with him. Mr Asoka Herath, too was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award along with Mrs Rohini Alles in 2019, by The International Schools of Sri Lanka (TISSL) for his outstanding service in education. Mrs Dinali Alles Mr Asoka B Herath Mr Ramantha Alles Leadership Director Director Director “Not everyone feels brave everyday; “It takes courage to let go of the “Though we have faced remarkable at those times, surround yourself with familiar and embrace the new. challenges and perils in the recent past, those who can stand with you and face Feel empowered to take on change.” the Gateway family's ability to rally the challenges of the future together.” around a common goal to create a Mr Asoka Banda Herath has over 50 years better and safer society for all is what Mrs Dinali Alles counts over 37 years of practical experience in education in has allowed us to Brave the Present of experience in education. As a trained Sri Lanka. He started his teaching profession and Rise to the Future.” English teacher, she served the Government as a special trained teacher in mathematics of Sri Lanka for 21 years before she took and retired as the Principal of Dharmaraja With eight years’ experience in the corporate up duties at Gateway. She has made an College, Kandy, which he elevated into sector of Sri Lanka, Mr Ramantha Alles immense contribution to laying down becoming the most sought-after Government is the most recent addition to the Gateway processes and adopting Global Best boys school outside Colombo. Group’s Board of Directors. Educated in Practices in teaching at Gateway College. the United States of America, he completed She keeps a close eye on Gateway Primary Mr Herath served Dharmaraja College his degree with a Bachelor of Science in Schools drawing on her vast experience as a for over 30 years in various roles, as an Aeronautics and in Business Administration. teacher and administrator. As a Director of Advanced Level teacher, Subwarden of the Upon his return to Sri Lanka, he began his Gateway College, she is actively involved in hostel, coach and master-in-charge of cricket, career at Apogee Holdings, a diverse group the management of the School in Colombo Deputy Principal and finally as the Principal, of companies involved in telecommunication, and also takes a personal interest to ensure even beyond retirement, at the request of fire protection, and media industries, maintenance of standards and quality, as the parents and the Old Boys Association overseeing the Group’s daily operations at expected by the Board. of the school. As the Principal of Gateway an upper management level. In addition, he College Kandy, Mr Herath was instrumental functions as a working director of Springfield in transforming the school into the most College, an English medium national Gateway College prestigious English medium private school in curriculum school that is fully-owned by Annual Review 2020 Kandy. When he took over the school in 2001, the Gateway Group. it was a little-known school having less than 19 400 students on its roll. The school is lauded today for its excellent academic and curricular record, with student enrolment exceeding 1,300. It is Mr Herath’s sound, down-to-earth, practical, wisdom, loyalty and unremitting hard work, which made that transformation. Mr Herath is held in high esteem as a “father figure” in view of the width and the depth of his experience in the field of education and educational administration. He has also won great respect for the way in which Gateway College Kandy has won recognition and

Educationalists at the helm Leadership Mrs Nirmali Wickremesinghe Ms Vinita Shenoy Mr Gladwin Canagasabey Consultant to the Gateway Principal, Principal, Gateway College Group of Schools Gateway College Colombo Gateway College Kandy Annual Review 2020 “Life is the most patient teacher. “Education encompasses all aspects “Great leaders are braver than they We understand this more than ever of life, and the teacher plays an believe, stronger than they seem, and today. At this juncture, we have important role – of a cheerleader, smarter than they think in redefining learnt in more than one way to Brave role-model, counsellor, and friend.” the future of their organisations.” the Present and Rise to the Future.” Having played an active role in Gateway’s Mr Gladwin Canagasabey started his Mrs Nirmali Wickremesinghe joined the journey to becoming one of Sri Lanka’s educational career in 1988 as a graduate Gateway Group of Schools in 2014. She top international schools, Ms Vinita teacher of botany and agriculture. Later, brought with her many years of experience Shenoy stands continually committed to he joined the Eastern University of Sri as a teacher in both state and private take forward the vision of the founder, the Lanka as the Head of Sports and Physical schools in Sri Lanka, international schools Chairman and the Board of Directors. She Education where he served for 11 years. overseas and as the Deputy Principal of is now looking forward to usher the school Whilst at the Eastern University, he also Bishop's College and the Principal of into its next level of excellence and, of served as a visiting lecturer in child Ladies College. She is recognised as an course, the “new normal”. psychology and educational psychology. educator who transformed the learning approach to be enjoyable to students, while Ms Vinita Shenoy joined Gateway College In 2004, he was appointed Headmaster of ensuring the holistic development of the in June 2010 and since then, has risen S. Thomas’ College, Gurutalawa, where he child. She enjoys a fine reputation as an up the ranks to Principal. She has an founded and implemented the preschool innovative educationist who was able to MBA in Human Resources, whilst being a and bilingual medium of education. Later, infuse life and vitality to the Sri Lankan graduate in Commerce and also Teaching he joined Trinity College, Kandy as the national curriculum. She has, thereby, Technology. In addition, she has completed Vice-Principal, where he served from 2007 brought in many new perspectives and best Diplomas in Computer Science and to 2014. Prior to joining Gateway College, practices to make education even more Human Rights. Ms Shenoy has over 30 he was the Registrar at the prestigious dynamic at Gateway. years experience in handling tutorials and General Sir John Kotelawala Defence teaching, both in India and Sri Lanka. University, Ratmalana. Mr Canagasabey As a Consultant to all Gateway schools, also served as the Manager of Hillwood Mrs Wickremesinghe plays a key role She is an ardent lover of nature and is one College, Kandy and was on the Advisory in formulating policies, developing of the few qualified teachers of Ikebana in Board of the Church Missionary Schools curriculum, and textbooks, professionally Sri Lanka, having received her credentials (CMSC) in Sri Lanka. developing teachers and acting as counsel from the Sogetsu School of Japan. As a to the heads of Gateway schools and Principal with a nurturing personality, Mr Canagasabey holds a Bachelor of Springfield Colleges. She also personally she motivates teachers and students Science in Agriculture (Honours Degree) spearheaded the pilot project for Global to grow individually and as a team. from the Eastern University of Sri Lanka Perspectives, for which Gateway College Ms Shenoy propagates that, “when the and a Master of Science in Organisational was selected by Cambridge International winds of change blow, some build walls, Management from the Postgraduate Examinations UK. others build windmills,” thus, encouraging Institute of Agriculture, University of the school community to brave the present, Peradeniya. He had also completed while optimistically rising to the future. his Postgraduate Diploma in Applied 20

Educationalists at the helm Psychology at the Colombo Institute Mrs Devika Alldis Mrs Priyanthi Seneviratne of Research and Psychology, and a Principal, Principal, Gateway Colleges Postgraduate Diploma in Education Gateway College Negombo Dehiwala and Ratmalana at the National Institute of Education in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, he obtained “When hundreds of millions of “Braving the new normal and a merit pass in the Diploma in Child students in the world are currently overcoming its unique challenges has Psychology at the American College of challenged to learn solely online, the given more depth and meaning to Higher Education and a Postgraduate pandemic has made the educators our purpose, as we step forward yet Diploma in Management from the Open rethink solutions, and systems in again, in our constant quest for the University of Sri Lanka. His career in teaching and learning. We have betterment of the Gateway community.” education and administration spans over braved the present to create a a period of 32 years, during which time, learning environment where students After obtaining her BA from the University he has made important strides within are inspired to learn for themselves, of Kelaniya, Mrs Priyanthi Seneviratne the education system in Sri Lanka, with with progressive, reconstructionist began her professional career at Ladies’ emphasis on pastoral care. opportunities, and tools that support College, Colombo. She counts over to build learning skills to engage 17 years of experience at Ladies’, teaching with others, in education for social Greek and Roman Civilisation and English Leadership responsibility.” for Advanced Level classes. She was the Head of the English Department at Ladies’ Mrs Devika Alldis’ career in education for eight years and a member of the staff spans over 37 years in government and council. She was responsible for curriculum international schools. She has taught development in English language and English, English Literature, and literature at both Primary and Secondary Western Classical Civilisation at both levels. Under her direction, Ladies’ College International General Certificate of maintained its reputation for English literary Secondary Education (IGCSE) and GCE excellence. Later, Mrs Seneviratne took up Advanced Level. Additionally, she has the challenges of the corporate sector for been a teacher trainer, examination officer, 12 years. Under her leadership, the regional and a visiting university lecturer. In office of The Chartered Institute of Marketing 2008, she was appointed Headmistress of UK (CIM Sri Lanka), won the international Gateway College Negombo. Her dynamism award for “Best CIM Region” four times. and energy have contributed greatly to the rapid progress of the establishment and her Mrs Seneviratne re-entered academia in Gateway College ability to hold the entire school community 2011, serving as Principal of a leading Annual Review 2020 together, as a family, has been the hallmark international school. Three years later of her success. she joined Gateway College as Principal and worked with Mrs. Noreen Welikala, Mrs Alldis holds a BA in English Language Consultant to Gateway College Dehiwala, and Literature, from the University of Sri until the latter retired in February 2016. Jayewardenepura and an MA in Linguistics from the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka. Mrs. Seneviratne who takes up challenges She was professionally trained at the with equanimity, was appointed Principal Teacher Training College, Peradeniya and of Gateway College Ratmalana in 2018, received her TEFL qualification from the when the school was first established; and University of Toronto. currently leads both schools.   21

Team Leaders Leadership Manjari Tennakoon Surani Maithripala Pubudu Wijesinghe Thilaka Jinadasa Team Leader, Team Leader, Team Leader, Data Analytics Team Leader, Curriculum Development Change Management and Higher Education Sports Development Manjari has an MA in English Surani graduated in Computer Pubudu is passionate about Thilaka is an internationally Literature and a Postgraduate Science from the Metropolitan providing well-rounded guidance accredited netball coach with Certificate in the Teaching of University, UK and holds an to help students choose higher over 22 years experience in English from the English and MBA from the University of education pathways that match Sri Lanka, Brunei, and Maldives. Foreign Languages University, Sri Jayewardenepura with their skills and aspirations. She She holds an international license Hyderabad, India. At heart a specialisation in Human firmly believes in the enormous for netball coaching levels 1/2/3 a classroom teacher, she is Resource Management. She has potential a compassionate and from the Western Australian currently engaged in working over 20 years of experience in well-informed adult has in Netball Inc/ Netball Singapore, with other teachers on curriculum the field of education both in helping a young person succeed and an international license for and delivery, in order to enhance Sri Lanka and Singapore. She is in study, work, and life. strength and conditioning from the the teaching and learning in involved in driving technology Australian Sports Commission, classrooms beyond her own. for education in our schools. With over 15 years of experience both from Australia. She has led She believes that technology is in the education management the Sri Lanka netball team to Occasionally a material a powerful tool for transforming industry, she possesses skills victory in the Asian Championship developer, Manjari has learning for both educators and in educational technology, twice, as the National Coach. Not co-authored the Pearson students. curriculum development, only is she a coach, she is also a Edexcel International GCSE international education, skilled administrator in sports. Text book for English Language She is a passionate lifelong data analysis, and student During her stay in Brunei, she A, and the online Teacher’s learner, and is a Certified counselling. laid a strong foundation for netball Resources for Edexcel Microsoft Educator (MCE) by popularising the game in the International Advanced and is also a certified Microsoft Pubudu holds a BSc in Computer country and played a major role in Level English Literature. Innovative Educator Expert Science from the Metropolitan advising the authorities on setting (MIEExpert) and MIE Fellow University, UK and an MBA from up the platform. A firm believer in the limitless and was selected to represent the Postgraduate Institute of potential of each and every Sri Lanka at the Education Management, University of Thilaka, was the first female person to learn, change and grow, Exchange Summit 2018 in Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka. athlete to take part in the Manjari is equally invested in Singapore. She has also completed a Olympics representing Sri Lanka developing both personal and Diploma in Child Psychology at and was also the Vice-Captain professional skills, a trait that Surani believes that our educators the American College of Higher of the national netball team. she believes all educators should are our change makers and Education. In 1988, she was honoured with encourage and support, not only strives to bring them up to date the “Deshabandu” title at the in their students but in their with technology, as well as Pubudu also helps the National Heroes’ Day for her colleagues as well. pedagogical practices needed Management in decision-making exceptional commitments towards to drive 21st century learning through in depth analysis of sport in Sri Lanka. She was the Gateway College through regular training. data in the schools and also first female athlete to be honoured Annual Review 2020 by developing systems and with this title. Being an athlete, processes for data collection, a coach and an administrator at analysis and report generation. all levels, she has a wide vision in developing sports among the younger generation. 22

Group Managers Thusitha Illukpitiya Nirupama Sonnadara Thusitha Rubasinghe Leadership COO, Gateway Group Head of HR and Legal Group Finance Manager With over 30 years of experience Nirupama has over fifteen He holds Memberships of in fast paced multinational years of experience in human both CA Sri Lanka and environments in USA, Malaysia, resource management and has Institute of Management Cambodia, and Sri Lanka, headed the HR Department of Accountants of Sri Lanka. Thusitha has served in many Gateway for over 12 years. She He functions as the Head of fields including hospitality, overlooks the HR aspects of the Finance for companies that finance, women’s rights, entire group consisting of over come under Gateway Group. technology, and capacity building 800 full-time employees in 15 He counts well over 25 years of women and youth. locations around the country. in the areas of Treasury She has experience in staffing, Management, Management Her association with Gateway performance management, Accounting, Financial began in 2004, as the Registrar employee relations, and benefits Accounting and reporting, of Gateway College, Kandy. and compensation. Nirupama Auditing and Taxation. Since then, she has held varied also has broad experience in roles within the Group, and has training and development, as He is actively involved in also ventured out to explore Gateway provides opportunities designing long-term business organisations such as Pearson for development for all its staff. and financial plans to manage Edexcel and Microsoft, which has the company’s future growth consolidated her understanding An Attorney-at-Law by and direction while providing of the changing dynamics of profession, Nirupama also functional leadership to the education and technology. provides legal advice for the company’s finance, corporate group focusing on labour-related taxation, treasury, Reporting, Equipped with skills, experience, matters and corporate law. regulatory compliance, and knowledge, Thusitha investments, risk management carries out her responsibilities Nirupama holds an MBA from and development projects as Chief Operating Officer for the Postgraduate Institute of relating to school facilities and the Gateway Group, overseeing Management (PIM). infrastructure. general operations, marketing, strategic planning and business Prior to joining Gateway, development of all entities he has worked for quoted within the group; with a personal public blue chip companies, commitment to understand, multinational companies and support, and empower, her Ernst & Young. family at Gateway. Thusitha feels most comfortable in the field of Gateway College Education, especially as there is Annual Review 2020 always an opportunity to learn, unlearn, and re-learn! 23

Gateway College Framework Annual Review 2020 26 Administrative structure 40 Facilities 45 Policies 46 Security, health, and hygiene 47 Community and ethos 24

Framework Gateway College Annual Review 2020 Group Managers 25

Administrative structure Management Deputy Principal (Academic/Pastoral) (Secondary/Primary) The Board of Directors of Gateway College is responsible for overall Assistant Principal – Academic governance, policy formation, policy monitoring, student achievements, and Head of Department Senior strategic planning for all five schools. (Academic/Sports and PE) Librarian The Management of each school is headed by its principal, who leads a team Assistant Subject Assistant Librarian of managerial staff responsible for the Head of Leaders Higher day-to-day operations of the school. Sports Education Counsellor* The Board collaborates with the principals and senior school management to arrive at an understanding regarding strategic direction. The Board is also accountable for preserving the vision of the Founder and the transcendent values that guide and shape the schools. Sports Subject Assistant Coordinators Teachers Librarian Lab Assistant Framework Gateway College Gateway College Gateway College Colombo Kandy Negombo The school is overlooked by the Under the principal, a deputy principal The Principal is in overall charge of principal, who is supported by two oversees academic affairs and pastoral the school. The two deputy principals deputy principals who oversee academics care. She is assisted by two assistant are responsible for the Primary and and pastoral care. They are supported by principals in the secondary section Secondary sections. There are three two assistant principals in Secondary and and an assistant principal each in the assistant principals, and three sectional three assistant principals in the Primary Primary and Foundation sections. heads. The school also has a deputy Section (One each for Foundation, head of department for sports. Key Stage 1, and Key Stage 2). Additionally, the school has heads Gateway College of departments for Humanities, Annual Review 2020 The sectional heads and grade Mathematics, Science, Business Studies, coordinators take care of the different Sports, and ICT. There are designated levels of grades while the heads sectional heads for Key Stages, and of departments for Humanities, year heads for each grade. Mathematics, Science, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), Business and Sports focus on the curriculum and subject-related matters. 26

Directorate Consultant Principal Team Team Team Team Leader - Data Leader Leader Leader Analytics and Curriculum Change Sports Development Management Development Education Assistant Principal – Pastoral Accountant Registrar School Manager Administration Secretary Front Office Manager/ Officer Heads of Key Assistant Assistant Assistant Assistant Assistant Stages/AL Accountant Registrar/ School Manager Manager Admissions Front Office Administration Secretary Heads of SENCO Senior Teacher in Teacher in Accounts Front Office Officer in Years/Grade Counsellor Charge Charge of Executive Executive Charge Coordinators Clubs and Maintenance of Prefects Societies Class Assistant Counsellor Accounts IT Teachers SENCO Assistant Officer in Charge Security Nurse Cashier Clerical * This person also reports to the higher education counsellor. Gateway College Gateway College Framework Dehiwala Ratmalana The principal oversees the school. There Gateway College Ratmalana falls under are two deputy principals, helped by an the purview of the principal of Gateway assistant principal, who are responsible College Dehiwala. The deputy principal for the Secondary and Primary schools, oversees the whole school while an respectively. assistant principal overlooks the Foundation and Key Stage 1 sections. Foundation, Key Stage 1 to Key Stage 4, and the Advanced Level fall under the Gateway College purview of six sectional heads. Grade Annual Review 2020 Coordinators take care of the different levels of grades. In addition, the school has heads of departments for humanities, business and sports. 27

Gateway College Framework Annual Review 2020 Administrative structure 28

Administrative structure Colombo Framework Campus From humble beginnings at Gothami Road, Gateway College Colombo has since expanded into a spacious 4.5-acre campus situated at Royal Gardens, Rajagiriya. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities and buildings fashioned after British independent school architecture with a contemporary, national twist. A student population of almost 2,000 benefits from first-rate teaching and finds joy through academic and non-academic achievements. Extent of Land 4 acres, 76.13 perches Built up space 112.046 sq ft Students 1,903 Gateway College Annual Review 2020 29

Gateway College Framework Annual Review 2020 Administrative structure 30

Administrative structure Kandy Framework Campus Gateway College Gateway College Kandy, dubbed “Gateway in Annual Review 2020 the hills” for its location in scenic Asgiriya with a bird’s-eye view of the Mahaweli River and the Hanthana Mountain range, is rated as the leading international school in Kandy. Formerly known as the Kandy International School, it was one of the first international schools in the hill country and joined the Gateway Group in 1999. Contemporary architecture in the midst of spectacular surroundings with state-of-the-art facilities, house over 1,200 students from all corners of the Central Province. Extent of Land 3 acres, 1 rood, 24.37 perches Built up space 90,649 sq ft Students 1,276 31

Gateway College Framework Annual Review 2020 Administrative structure 32

Administrative structure Negombo Framework Campus Gateway College Adjacent to the Negombo lagoon and boasting Annual Review 2020 of its own eco-friendly charm, Gateway College Negombo was established in 2007 and is recognised today as the leading international school in the North of Colombo. Over 900 students receive holistic education from a dynamic teaching staff in an environment equipped with modern facilities. Gateway College Negombo is truly a school of opportunities with windows open to the outside world. Extent of Land 2 acres, 22.92 perches Built up space 44,238 sq ft Students 912 33

Gateway College Framework Annual Review 2020 Administrative structure 34

Administrative structure Dehiwala Framework Campus Gateway College South of Colombo lies one of Gateway’s youngest Annual Review 2020 schools, Gateway College Dehiwala. Established in 2013 as the result of a merger between Gateway College Bambalapitiya and American International School, the school caters to the needs of students from Playgroup to Advanced Level. Beyond the bounds of the classroom, students embrace more than just academic studies. Equipped with modern infrastructure, the school houses a state-of-the-art auditorium, an indoor basketball court, a swimming pool, an innovation studio, and a Math Lab. Extent of Land 2 roods, 30.50 perches Built up space 76,986 sq ft Students 890 35

Gateway College Framework Annual Review 2020 Administrative structure 36

Administrative structure Ratmalana Framework Campus Gateway College Gateway College welcomed the newest member Annual Review 2020 of the family, Gateway College Ratmalana, in September 2018. The new campus brings flood- lit, state-of-the-art football grounds, and a modern pavilion to the Dehiwala and Ratmalana schools, with a basketball court, cricket nets, a badminton court, and other facilities related to extracurricular activities, in the works. The new campus is the latest accomplishment in the constant endeavour and effort to provide the best facilities and opportunities for all schools and students, a hallmark of the Chairman and the Directorate of the Gateway Group. Extent of Land 3 acres Built up space 2.3736 acres Students 160 37

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Framework Gateway College 39 Annual Review 2020

Facilities Gateway’s facilities and infrastructure are core enablers of and the football field in Ratmalana, rival the best in the region, our unique educational experience. We create an environment supporting and enabling teams to achieve even greater heights conducive to knowledge, learning, enjoyment, and excellence, in the international arena. The sports facility in Nawala has been ensuring our students and teachers have the opportunity to designed for netball, tennis, and futsal. discover their talents and pursue their ambitions. Proposed modern sports complexes Each of our schools is equipped with airy classrooms, purpose built rooms, such as the History Rooms, Sinhala Rooms, Art Being optimistic, we continue to develop our sports facilities Rooms, Music Rooms, BTEC Rooms etc., to ensure that students expecting our students to be back in the sports field soon. are immersed in the subject they learn. In our effort to drive In this regard, you will be pleased to know that our new grounds STEM education, all our schools boast state-of-the-art ICT and in Seeduwa is shaping up well. Science Labs as well as Maths Labs and Innovation Labs. All our schools are also outfitted with primary and secondary libraries that The College has invested in the construction of a modern sporting drive the importance of literacy and are furnished with the latest complex, primarily for the use of Gateway students. Located in publications that both our students and teachers need with well Seeduwa, close to the entry point of the Katunayake – Colombo stocked reading and research sections. expressway, the complex is placed strategically to meet the rising demand for quality sports facilities in the region. With the advent The backbone of our exceptional performance in sports, we work of this long-awaited sporting arena, both students from Gateway diligently to maintain and upgrade our sports facilities to match and professional teams in the area, will be able to practice and national and global standards. Our international-level facilities excel in their chosen disciplines, thus upholding Gateway’s are also made available for Sri Lanka national team training strong commitment to sporting excellence. The proposed complex sessions. The new swimming pool in Negombo, badminton court in includes a 400 metre running track, a pavilion, a standard sized Rajagiriya, basketball courts in Rajagiriya, Kandy, and Dehiwala, cricket ground, two football and rugby pitches, a badminton court and a squash court. Framework Gateway College Annual Review 2020 40

Facilities New Olympic-standard swimming pool The new pool has state-of-the-art starting blocks equipped with a FINA approved moveable track start system and safe-start handles In 2019, Gateway became the first, and only, international school that are safer and faster. The pool meets international standards, in Sri Lanka to offer a 50 metre pool. It is also one of three in all showcasing starting blocks that are used in FINA World Cups, the schools in the island to offer such a facility along with Ananda Olympics, and the Commonwealth Games. College and St Joseph's College. Situated in Gateway College Negombo with a scenic view of the Negombo lagoon, the facility is an architectural masterpiece. The pool was ceremonially opened by the Sri Lankan swimming icon, Julian Bolling, who was also Gateway’s first swimming coach. Framework Gateway College Annual Review 2020 41

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Framework Gateway College 43 Annual Review 2020

44 Gateway College Framework Annual Review 2020

Policies The policies at Gateway ensure the safety and well-being of all • Prefect Selection Applicants Shortlisting Process students, staff, and visitors. The rules and procedures of the school • Assessment Policy are established on these policies which then create standards of • Health and Safety Policy quality for learning and safety. As a result, our schools contain • Performance Monitoring Policy the structure and functions necessary to meet the educational, • Child Safeguarding Policy emotional, and holistic needs of our students. • School Policy on Awarding Sports Certificates • Examination Papers Process Furthermore, new teachers and staff members are provided with a • Homework Policy for Teachers booklet, “Right Start”, which serves as a welcome document and a • Communication Policy guide to our traditions and practices. The school has the following • Career Guidance and Higher Education Policy policy documents as guidance for all staff: • School Excursions and Educational Visits Policy • BYOD Policy for Students • Awards Day Policy • Microsoft Teams and Office 365 Policy • ClassDojo Policy • Academic Staff Late Attendance Process • Pastoral Care and Discipline Policy • SEN and Access Arrangement Procedure Framework Gateway College Annual Review 2020 45

Security, health, and hygiene Gateway complies with all laws and regulations pertaining to the With the tightened security situation in the country in 2019, environmental, health, and safety aspects of the school. The health the school carried out several fire and emergency drills as well and safety policy of the school is used as a guide to eliminate, as training for staff on handling such situations. Clear signage, or reduce, risks to health, safety, and welfare of all students and direction markers, and assembly points were set throughout the staff, with students made aware of the need to act responsibly and school, alongside evacuation procedures. refrain from littering. Health, safety, and well-being of the school community is the top Parapet walls and chain-link fences secure the school premises, priority at Gateway. Following the emergence of the pandemic with all points of entry and exit manned by experienced security this year, the School Management took swift action to prepare personnel from a professional service provider. Closed Circuit the premises to ensure the safety of students. This included Television (CCTV) cameras cover the buildings and operate 24/7. manufacturing of personalised face shields, for the entire school, easily accessible multi-sized hand-washing stations placed at The schools maintain sickrooms with qualified nurses in convenient locations along with temperature measuring equipment attendance. While the nurses handle minor ailments, maintaining and sanitising agents. Many precautionary measures, in addition to contact with parents, an ambulance service with paramedic the guidelines recommended by the authorities, were implemented. support is available on call. All buildings are equipped with fire extinguishers. The surrounding areas are periodically audited through self-assessment to ensure that the school premises are safe and secure for use by our students. Framework Gateway College Annual Review 2020 46