SOS Schools: Piliyandala Primary and Secondary School

The combined SOS Primary and Secondary School opened in 1985 first as a primary school following an agreement betwen SOS Children's Vilages and the Department of Education. There are over 900 pupils, 385 in primary and 520 in secondary. Students can choose among four different streams: science, mathematics, commerce and arts. The children are taught in Singhalese but they all learn English as a foreign language. Subjects taught include Singhalese, Buddhism, Mathematics, English, Sciences, Social Studies, Music and Dance, Art, Agriculture, Business Administration and Domestic Science. The school has its own library and gym. Students can participate in various sports, such as volleyball and football. Lessons usually start at 7:45 a.m. and end at 1:45 p.m.

When the SOS Children's Village was built, there were hardly any schools in the Piliyandala area. There was a lack of teachers, and most children could only attend school for four or five years. Today the SOS school is considered to be a model.