St. Thomas’ School, one of the prestigious schools of Shimla mark an important landmark as they celebrate 100 years of existence. To commemorate this glorious event, celebrations have begun since the beginning of this year. Various academic as well as cultural programmes have been organised since this session. To mark the celebrations and to honour the Revd. Dr. Pradeep Kumar Samantaroy, Chairman and Bishop of the Dioceses of Amritsar (C.N.I.) for his unwavering dedication for the last 25 years, a felicitation ceremony was organized in the school premises here today. Heads of various other educational institutions of Dioceses of Amritsar and more than 100 dignitaries associated with the Diocese participated in the programme.
School Principal Vidhupriya Chakravarty shared a brief note about the journey and growth of this magnificent institute over the past century and how the school management has been instrumental in shaping this educational institution. She also appreciated the efforts of teachers, parents and students. She also thanked Dr Samantaroy for his work and unconditional support. Additionally, she acknowledged the cooperation of all stakeholders who have been educated at the school over the past 100 years and have contributed in various fields.
Glorious History of St. Thomas’ School
St. Thomas Church was established in 1912, at that time informal education for girls was started in the premises of the church. The foundation stone of this building was laid by the then Viceroy of India, His Excellency the Right Honourable Lord Hardinge on 29 June 1912. The architect of this building was carried on by Herbert Waller through whose craftsmanship techniques special types of stones were used in this building. St. Thomas School was initially run as a parish primary school and by 1924, it was established as a full-fledged high school by association with the Punjab Education Board.
The then, founding principal of this school was the renowned educationist, Helen Jerwood. When Himachal Pradesh was granted statehood in 1971, the school was affiliated with the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education. And in the year 1974, on the golden jubilee of the school, it was extended to Higher Secondary Level. In the year 2009, the school received recognition from the Central Board of Secondary Education, Delhi.
Currently, Principal Chakravarty who has been providing her services and guidance to this school since 2007. The school functions under the Diocese of Amritsar, Church of North India (C.N.I.) and is a recognized institution of repute in the region as a co-educational institution.
The growth of the institute has seen continuous innovational programmes for the all-round development of the students. Many courses related to vocational training and life skills are being run by the school in the present context that benefits them through employment oriented. Skill development and leadership development of teachers have been emphasised upon from time to time with new digital technology seminars and workshops.
