About Us
Discover the history, vision, and mission of St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, Kozhencherry
Our History
Our Legacy: A Century of Excellence
The story of St. Thomas Higher Secondary School is a testament to the visionary leadership of the Kozhencherry St. Thomas Mar Thoma Parish and its commitment to social progress through education. For over 116 years, this "Temple of Learning" has been a beacon of light for thousands of students in Central Travancore.
Founding and Early Years (1910–1921)
The school had its humble beginnings in 1910 as an approved English Medium School under the leadership of Rev. C.P. Philipose (Ayirur Achen). At its inception, the school functioned in a temporary building on 65 cents of land owned by the Kozhencherry Parish.
The early growth of the institution was fueled by the tireless efforts and foresight of two legendary figures:
- Rev. C.P. Philipose (Ayirur Achen): The then Vicar of the parish.
- Rev. K.T. Thomas (Kurunthottical Achen): The Assistant Vicar, whose dedication helped the school overcome its initial "teething troubles."
By 1919, the institution evolved into a High School, and by 1921, it became a full-fledged High School. The first batch of students appeared for the School Final Examination in 1922.
Milestones in Growth
As the decades passed, the school continued to expand its infrastructure and academic reach:
- 1970 (Diamond Jubilee): The school celebrated its 60th anniversary with great pomp. The celebrations were inaugurated by Cardinal Dr. Joseph Parecattil.
- 1990–1991 (80th Anniversary): To mark the 80th year, the Kurunthottical Achen Block was constructed. It was consecrated in November 1991 by Most Rev. Dr. Alexander Mar Thoma Metropolitan.
- 1998 (Higher Secondary Status): A significant turning point occurred when the school was upgraded to a Higher Secondary School. To accommodate this growth, a new block was constructed at a cost of 60 Lakhs, inaugurated by the then Education Minister, Shri. P.J. Joseph.
- 2008 (Centenary Year): The school reached the historic milestone of 100 years. A year-long celebration culminated in the release of a documentary CD titled 'Niravu', chronicling the school's rich history.
Infrastructure and Facilities
The school has always been supported by its well-wishers and alumni. Notably, a modern Computer Lab was donated by Shri. T. Thomas (an alumnus) in memory of his father, Shri. K.C. Thomas, a former teacher at the school.
Today, the school boasts:
- A dedicated faculty of 60 teachers and 11 non-teaching staff.
- A vibrant student body of over 1,600 students.
- Active units of Red Cross, Scouts, SPC Unit and ISCF, focusing on the holistic development of students.
Academic and Extra-Curricular Brilliance
St. Thomas HSS, Kozhencherry, consistently ranks among the top schools in the Pathanamthitta district for S.S.L.C. results. Beyond academics, our students regularly bring laurels to the institution through:
- District and State level wins in Arts, Sports, and Science fairs.
- Annual participation and representation in the District Republic Day Parade.
- Prestigious awards including the National Award and the President’s Medal.
A Global Community of Alumni
The true pride of St. Thomas lies in its "Old Boys and Girls." Our alumni are spread across the globe, serving as Metropolitans, scientists, legal experts, educationists, industrialists, poets, and political leaders. Their success is the greatest tribute to the value-based education provided by this institution.
"From a small 'Pallikkoodam' (church school) to a premier Higher Secondary institution, we continue to journey forward, overcoming challenges and remaining a center of excellence and value-based education."
Our Vision
Our vision is to establish St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, Kozhencherry as a true beacon of excellence—where academic brilliance harmonizes with strong values, technology fuels innovation, and every student is nurtured through holistic education, vibrant co-curricular opportunities, and purposeful community service.
Our Mission
- •Provide holistic education integrating academic excellence with co-curricular activities.
- •Inculcate ethical values and a sense of social responsibility.
- •Empower students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Our Goals
To develop socially useful values, knowledge, and skills in students through community-based activities, and to create awareness about social problems and ways to solve them.
To understand the needs and problems of the community and to develop a sense of responsibility among students to take part in solving them.
To develop leadership qualities, self-confidence, and a spirit of cooperation among students, and to help them work together effectively.
To make students understand the dignity of labour and to involve them actively in community service.
To help students understand national development programmes, social welfare activities, and government policies, and to encourage them to participate in them.
To develop social and civic responsibility among students and to encourage participation in activities related to cleanliness, health, and environmental protection.
To promote national integration, social harmony, unity, and to develop a spirit of brotherhood and patriotism among students.