Gateway College hosted the SACE International (South Australian Certificate of Education) Professional Learning 
Workshop from Thursday, March 13th, to Saturday, March 15th. This in-person teacher training initiative, facilitated by a team of experts from SACE International, brought together educators from China, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka, providing an invaluable platform for collaboration, innovation, and the advancement of teaching methodologies.
The workshop commenced with an opening ceremony on March 13, graced by Paul Stephens, Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka. Joining him was a panel of education professionals: Ms. Virginia Steele – Program Manager, SACE Education Services, Ms. Leanne Jarvis – Faculty Manager, SACE International, Ms. Deanna Isles – Faculty Manager, SACE Education Services and Mr. Wassim Negroh – Education Consultant, SACE Education Services.
Dr. Harsha Alles, Chairman of the Gateway Group, Group Directors Ms. Anishka Alles and Mr. Asoka Herath, Mrs. Nirmali Wickremesinghe (Consultant, Gateway Group), Ms. Vinita Shenoy (Principal, Gateway College Colombo), Dr. Devika Alldis (Principal, Gateway College Negombo), and Mrs. Priyanthi Seneviratne (Principal, Gateway College Dehiwala & Ratmalana) also participated.
As education extends beyond the classroom to celebrate culture and creativity, both the opening and closing ceremonies featured vibrant student performances. These included multi-faith celebrations representing Sri Lanka’s four major religions, the singing of the Australian and Sri Lankan national anthems, and traditional dance items. Adding a unique student perspective, Lisha Perera, a SACE student from Gateway College Colombo, shared her personal experience of studying the program.
Workshop focus areas
Over the three days, participants engaged in intensive subject-specific sessions in Sciences, Mathematics, English, and Humanities. The workshops focused on key educational themes, including:
= Metacognition and student-centered learning
= Natural evidence of learning
= Student agency in the classroom
= The integration of AI in education
Educators participated in hands-on training, networking opportunities, and collaborative discussions aimed at refining instructional strategies and enhancing the student learning experience.
Specialized sessions were also held for teachers, coordinators, and school leaders, featuring deep-dive discussions with subject experts, leadership forums on educational innovation and collaborative communities of practice, fostering ongoing professional development. A highlight of the programme was a special session on the future of education, exploring strategies to address the evolving demands of global education.
The closing ceremony on March 15 celebrated the dedication and active participation of all delegates, marking the conclusion of this impactful professional learning experience. Mr. Jayamin Pelpola, a distinguished alumnus of Gateway College and Chairman of Cambridge Ventures and Cambridge Real Estate, Director at Onterra Group, and Board Member of the Bank of Ceylon, was the special guest for the final day. His insights on leadership and innovation left participants inspired and motivated.
SACE Graduates: A Global Future
In today’s fast-changing world, education must equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies essential for success. The South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) is a globally recognized qualification that is on par with GCE Advanced Level, fostering academic excellence, critical thinking, and adaptability. Accepted by the world’s top universities—including Australia’s Group of Eight, Asia’s Top 10, Canada’s U15, the UK’s Russell Group, and the USA’s Ivy League—SACE opens doors to higher education and global career opportunities.
Gateway College Colombo was the first school to introduce SACE to South Asia, marking a transformative milestone in the region’s educational landscape. In just two years, Gateway has celebrated the graduation of two successful cohorts, with a third currently progressing through the program. As of 2025, Gateway has expanded SACE offerings to its Kandy and Negombo campuses, widening access to this world-class qualification.
The SACE International Professional Learning Workshop 2025 played a pivotal role in empowering teachers with innovative strategies, ensuring students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for success in an increasingly dynamic and interconnected world. Hosting this regional forum further cements Gateway College’s reputation as a leader in delivering world-class education.The next intake for SACE students will be in June 2025 at Gateway Colleges Colombo, Kandy, and Negombo. For further information, contact – sace@gateway.lk | 0741467737| https://gatewaycollege.lk SACE is offered at Gateway College Colombo – 185, Koswatta Road, Rajagiriya |0112888288, 0112888280, Gateway College Kandy – 80, Wariyapola Sri Sumangala Mw, Asgiriya, Kandy |0812200300, 0812200206 and Gateway College, Negombo – No 62,Negombo Road, Kurana|0312227772, 0312227722.
