About St. Peter's
Who We Are
St. Peter’s School was founded in 1904 primarily for the education of European and Anglo-Indian children. It’s foundations however, were laid much earlier; in 1902 by the Colonial and Continental Society of London, and the move to its present campus was delayed till the construction of its buildings were completed. Till then, it was run as a boy’s section of Kimmins School, Panchgani.
It was only in 1904, after the completion of the present ‘Main Building’ that the boys were shifted to the present campus which was named ‘St. Peter’s School.’
Essentially established for children of the Anglo-Indian community of Anglican faith, the school, from its earlier years has welcomed boys of all faiths and communities giving it a cosmopolitan flavour without ‘Fear or Favour’
Fast forward to present times, and you find, a rich representation of children of different communities, religious back grounds, denominations, and in some cases nationalities all living and studying together like a large happy family in perfect harmony.
We, at St. Peter’s aspire to cater to the needs of our children’s all-round development and harmonious living and at the same time preparing them for the rigors awaiting them in the outside world.
In the dormitories they live like family, in the dining hall they share the same food, in the classroom they wear the same uniform and, on the sports field, they are taught sportsmanship, fair play, sporting spirit and above all ‘to never give up’
Below is a chronological history of St. Peter’s over the years.
Who We Are
Vision
To provide a safe and supportive environment to build future-oriented learners and influencers who bring about a positive change in society through service, empathy, inclusiveness, and sustainability.
Mission
Provide an accommodating and secure environment by conducting activities to ensure the emotional and physical well-being of all. Establish a curriculum that enables students to adapt and develop the required skills to meet the needs and challenges of the future. Empower students to make goal-oriented decisions and to create a culture of integrity, loyalty, care, respect, and affection for others and the environment.
Core Values
Service – To render our unconditional service for the betterment of society.
Empathy – To treat others as you would like to be treated.
Inclusiveness – To involve all irrespective of their religion, caste, community, gender, ability, appearance, or preferences.
Sustainability – To act responsibly towards the environment and society.
Integrity – To live a life of values, standing up for what you believe in, and doing the right thing, regardless of the external influences and consequences.
Loyalty – To develop an attitude of being true to yourself and the institution, leading to being a loyal citizen.
Our vision is to inspire students to live up to our motto:
“Ut Prosim” – That I may Serve.
History
Established during the dying decades of the British Rule, St. Peter’s School has successfully blended the best of both cultures to provide a nurturing and enlightening environment for young minds. The mighty walls of St. Peter’s were founded in 1902, by the Colonial and Continental Church Society, London.
Formerly known as European Boys School, it was situated in the Boys Section of Kimmins Girls School, Panchgani until the main school building was erected. The construction was completed in 1904, after which it came to be known as St. Peter’s School.
Initially constructed for Anglo-Indian students, St. Peter’s has grown to accept students from diverse backgrounds, sects and nationalities.
Post Indian Independence, Principal O.D Bason was the first Principal of St. Peter’s School. The school grew manifold during his reign – academically and infrastructurally. Facilities such as the school hospital, additional dormitories and the school kitchen were introduced during this time. The school celebrated its Golden Jubilee in 1954.
An important landmark event in the history of the school took place on 1st May,1961 when the management of the school passed from the Common Wealth and Continental Church Society, London to the Bombay Diocesan Society for Educational, Medial and Welfare Work. The former society had governed the school for 55 years. A tablet in the school hall affirms this milestone. With the change in management, the Bishop to Bombay ceased to be the Chairman of the Board of Governors and had been replaced by the Archdeacon of Poona (today known as Pune).
In 1969, the school’s management, control and property were transferred to the Society of St Peter’s School, Panchgani, a registered Trust under the Bombay Public Trust Act of 1950. Since then, all school matters have been undertaken by the Society. Mr O.D Bason retired as Principal after 27 years of service. His vision for the school, conviction, and dedication will always be remembered. To commemorate this great visionary, Bason Hall was constructed and named in his honor.
Adapting to changing times and needs of society, the school has worked towards intellectually empowering its students while keep them grounded in culture. In 1987, the school introduced computer studies as a compulsory subject for all classes. A dedicated computer lab was set up and has since been an agent of change in the school. These early endeavors of the school paved the way to pioneering initiatives such as the E-Journal that connects students to their peers across various schools and continents.
Over the years, to provide focused learning and undivided attention to its students, the management added several classrooms as well as established a separate Junior school building. St. Peter’s school completed a Centenary in 2004. The school is constantly expanding its horizons and working towards its vision for the betterment of the students.
