History
In 1940 an English secondary school was established at Pannipitiya as a branch of Ananda College Colombo. This new school was named Dharmapala Vidyalaya. On opening day two major events took place: opening of late Sri Devamitta Dharmapala Thero Memorial Building by W.A.De.Silva Hon. Minister Of Health and ceremonial Opening of Dharmapala Vidyalaya By Dr. Walter Wijeynaike, the General Manager of Buddhist Schools
Dharmapala Vidyalaya was managed by the Buddhist Theosophical Society under the direct supervision of the Principal Ananda College Colombo. It was a school for both boys and girls and conducted classes from Kindergarten to the Matriculation Form, in English Medium. Dharmapala Vidyalaya began its work on 8 January 1941. The founder was Mr. P.De.S.Kularathne and the Principal was Dr. J.E.Jayasooriya.
During World War II section from Ananda College along with the teachers shifted to Dharmapala Vidyalaya premises due to fear of war. To accommodate these students more Cadjan sheds were built. Later six permanent classrooms were built for the Primary Section. The then Principal of Ananda College, Mr. P.De.S Kularathna, led this project.
With the exit of Dr.J.E.Jayasooriya, Mr. D.C. Lawris took over as Principal in 1943.
The school registered as an independent institute and a Class 1 school for higher education. Up to H.S.C many more students started entering Dharmapala. With the help of many donors and with the money collected by the students, another five classrooms were built for the Primary Section.
By February 1947 there were 920 students and H.S.C. classes were started. Mr. Lawris left Dharmapala Vidyalaya to take over as the Principal of Ananda College. Colombo.
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