Belong
Learn the uniform, standards, basic drill and responsibility of being part of a platoon.

At St. Peter’s College, Cadeting stands proudly alongside other sports in shaping confident young men. It builds discipline, responsibility, teamwork and respect. Cadets learn to think clearly, act independently and lead with confidence.
Today’s Gen Alpha is growing up in an increasingly screen-centred and socially disconnected lifestyle, with fewer opportunities for face-to-face interaction, teamwork and real-world responsibility. Cadeting provides a powerful balance. It takes young people beyond their comfort zones and helps them build confidence, discipline, independence, resilience and emotional strength. Through teamwork, leadership, outdoor activity and shared challenges, cadets learn to communicate, cooperate, respect others, support their peers and take responsibility for their actions. These experiences nurture empathy, courage, adaptability, self-control and a strong sense of belonging, helping your child grow into a confident, socially capable and responsible young adult.
Cadeting at St. Peter’s College goes beyond academics and sport by preparing young men for real life. For over 100 years, Peterite cadeting has built a proud tradition of discipline, leadership, teamwork and responsibility, helping shape generations of confident young men. Many respected and accomplished personalities have emerged from this strong cadet tradition, carrying its values into their professions and communities. For parents, cadeting is more than an extracurricular activity. It is a proven training ground for character, resilience, independence and leadership that stays with a Peterite for life.
Endorsements from College leadership, teachers and parents share the lasting value they see in the Peterite Cadet experience.

The official NCC curriculum brings together physical, intellectual, practical and character development. Every subject becomes a chance to learn how to think, communicate and perform as part of a disciplined team.
View official NCC curriculum ↗Learn the uniform, standards, basic drill and responsibility of being part of a platoon.
Develop fitness, field skills, first aid, teamwork, discipline and personal confidence.
Take charge of tasks, support junior cadets and develop clear communication under pressure.
Carry Peterite values into higher education, professional life, community and country.
A Century of Discipline, Courage, Brotherhood. From a Junior Cadet Platoon formed in 1926 to generations of Peterites who went on to distinguish themselves in school, service and life, the story of St. Peter’s College Cadeting is one written through discipline, leadership, courage and comradeship.
1926 | Where the March Began.
On 10 December 1926, the Junior Cadet Platoon of St. Peter’s College was officially recognised as No. 28 Platoon, attached to ‘G’ Company of the Ceylon Cadet Battalion. Lt. L. E. Bertus took charge, marking the beginning of a tradition that would endure for generations.
1929 | Growing in Strength.
A Senior Cadet Platoon was officially recognised. Lt. L. E. Bertus became Officer Commanding of the College Contingent, assisted by Lt. B. C. Anghie. Peterite Cadeting was beginning to establish its identity.
1932 | The First Taste of Glory.
The Junior Platoon captured the De Soysa Challenge Cup for Squad Drill. Six Peterite Cadets were also selected to attend a skeleton camp at Diyatalawa. The tradition of excellence had begun.
1933 | A New Generation of Leadership.
Following the passing of Lt. L. E. Bertus in October 1933, Lt. B. C. Anghie assumed command of the College Cadet Contingent.
1934 | Strengthening the Contingent.
Second Lieutenant A. V. A. Perera succeeded Lt. B. C. Anghie as Junior Officer. This year also saw the founding of the St. Peter’s College Miniature Rifle Club.
1935 | Into Battalion Camp.
The Senior Cadets attended the full Battalion Assessment Camp at Diyatalawa, while the Junior Platoon attended camps at Gampaha and Boossa, performing creditably.
1936 | Passing the Torch.
Following the departure of Lt. Anghie to Royal College, Lt. A. V. A. Perera became Officer Commanding of the Contingent, with Mr. Justin A. Perera taking charge of the Junior Platoon. The Cadets also presented a Guard of Honour to the Governor of Ceylon at the College Christmas Carnival.
1937 | Shooting Champions.
The Junior Cadets, under Second Lieutenant Justin A. Perera, emerged as shooting champions at a competition camp held at the Kandy Military Barracks.
1938 | Among the Best.
The Senior Cadets under Lt. A. V. A. Perera secured second place in the Commandant’s Competition at Diyatalawa.
1939 | Precision and Marksmanship.
The Junior Cadets secured first place in Squad Drill at Gampaha and later produced one of the highest scores recorded in the All-Island Small Bore Competition for Junior Cadets.
1940 | Tested Beyond Competition.
Peterite Senior Cadets won the Company Challenge Trophy and participated alongside their officers in a wartime Night Tactical Exercise organised by the Ceylon Defence Force. Their efficiency earned commendation.
1941 | Sharpening the Aim.
The College Miniature Rifle Range was officially opened by Major P. D. Pelpola, the Adjutant.
1943 | Taking to the Air.
Senior Peterite Cadets performed strongly at the annual Diyatalawa Camp and later became members of the Air Training Corps.
1945 | Champions.
The Senior Cadets of St. Peter’s College captured the prestigious Herman Loos Cup for All-Round Efficiency. A defining achievement in Peterite Cadet history.
1946 | Holding the Standard.
Under Lt. J. P. E. Dias, the Senior Cadets attended the Cadet Camp at Diyatalawa and were placed ninth among thirty platoons.
1947 | Training Through Difficult Times.
Owing to the circumstances following World War II, no Ceylon Cadet Corps camps were held, but training at College continued.
1948 | An Annus Mirabilis.
One of the greatest years in the history of Peterite Cadeting.
The Junior Cadets won the De Soysa Challenge Trophy for Squad Drill.
At the Senior Cadet Camp at Diyatalawa, St. Peter’s won the Millers Cup for Shooting, placed First in Squad Drill and placed First in General Smartness.
The platoon narrowly missed the Herman Loos Cup for All-Round Efficiency by only three points.
1949 | The Standard Continues.
The Senior Cadets continued to perform strongly, although their participation in competitions was disrupted when the platoon had to be segregated following a case of chickenpox.
1950 | Leadership Beyond the Platoon.
Lt. J. P. E. Dias was promoted to Captain in charge of ‘A’ Company. Lt. G. J. Stephen assumed duties as Officer Commanding of the College Contingent, while Second Lieutenant H. E. S. W. Jayasekera took charge of the Junior Platoon.
1951 | Maintaining Excellence.
Although detailed records from this period are limited, St. Peter’s continued to maintain the high standards of efficiency established by earlier generations.
1952 | The Tradition Endures.
Peterite Cadeting continued to develop through disciplined training and commitment, maintaining the strong standards of the College Contingent.
1953 | Preparing the Next Generation.
The College continued its Cadet training programme while developing the officers and young cadets who would carry the tradition forward.
1954 | Peterite Leadership Rises.
Capt. J. P. E. Dias was promoted to the rank of Major and appointed Second-in-Command of the First Battalion of the Ceylon Cadet Corps.
1955 | A Celebration of Excellence.
The Junior Cadets won honours in Squad Drill and Sports, tied for First Place in All-Round Efficiency and won the Kularatne Challenge Cup for the Commander’s Test.
The College also celebrated a major Cadeting milestone with a Grand Parade and Tattoo on the College grounds. Army Commander Major General H. W. G. Wijekoon attended as Chief Guest.
The celebrations included a Guard of Honour, Fife and Drum Band, Sounding of the Retreat and a spectacular Torch Drill Display.
1956 | Excellence Maintained.
The Senior Cadets under Lt. Jayasekera and Junior Cadets under Lt. Austin L. Fernando continued to maintain a high level of efficiency.
1957 | Leadership in Service.
Lt. Jayasekera and Lt. Austin L. Fernando continued as Cadet Officers at College, with Lt. Jayasekera simultaneously serving as Battalion Quarter Master.
1958 | The De Soysa Cup Returns.
The Junior Cadets once again secured First Place in Squad Drill, winning the De Soysa Challenge Trophy for the second time.
Major J. P. E. Dias was also promoted to Regimental Second-in-Command.
1960 | The March Was Interrupted.
Government orders resulted in the disbanding of the Senior and Junior Platoons at St. Peter’s College, together with Cadet units at several other schools.
But the spirit of Peterite Cadeting did not disappear. It waited.
1948–1950 Generation | Cadets Who Became Leaders.
Among the remarkable Peterites associated with this generation was future Sri Lanka Army Commander Lieutenant General J. E. D. Perera.
Other members went on to distinguished military careers, while three Maldivian students in the platoon included future Maldivian Prime Minister Ahmed Zaki.
Former Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Rear Admiral A. W. H. Perera would later reflect on the powerful formative influence St. Peter’s College had on his life.
1981 | The Second Birth.
After two decades, records mark 1981 as the rebirth of Cadeting at St. Peter’s College.
The Peterite march had begun again.
1982 | Rebuilding the Platoon.
By May 1982, Lt. Austin L. Fernando had taken charge of rebuilding the College Cadet Platoon, beginning another significant era in Peterite Cadeting.
1983 | A New Generation Emerges.
The rebuilding continued as a new generation of young Peterites began taking their places within the College Cadet Platoon.
1984 | Strength Through Training.
The revived Platoon continued to develop its strength, discipline and leadership under the renewed Cadet programme.
1985 | From School Sergeant to Air Vice Marshal.
The College Platoon was led by Camillus B. Labrooy, who later rose through the Sri Lanka Air Force to become an Air Vice Marshal.
Another powerful example of where the lessons of Cadeting could lead.
1986 | The Rebirth Takes Hold.
The revived Cadet programme had once again become an established part of College life, laying the foundation for the generations that followed.
1987 | Back to Assessment Camp.
Sgt. Sudesh Perera led the College Platoon to the Battalion Assessment Camp at the Army Training Centre, Boossa.
1988 | A New National Era.
Sgt. M. S. Fernando led the Platoon to the Battalion Assessment Camp at Elpitiya.
This year also witnessed the amalgamation of the Sri Lanka Cadet Corps and Police Cadeting, leading to the establishment of the National Cadet Corps.
1989 | Under the National Cadet Corps.
Sgt. A. S. Hettiarachchi led the College Platoon to the Battalion Assessment Camp at Elpitiya.
The National Cadet Corps was placed under the direct administration of the Ministry of Defence.
1990 | Rantembe Begins.
The College Platoon, led by Sgt. Rohitha, participated in the assessment camp at the Sri Lanka Army Gemunu Watch Camp in Diyatalawa.
The newly established National Cadet Corps Training Centre at Rantembe was also officially opened during this year.
Peterite Cadets participated in a Guard of Honour and took part in martial arts displays connected with the National Independence Day celebrations.
1991 | Honour on Home Ground.
Sgt. V. J. H. Fernando led the Platoon.
For the first time, a College Cadet Platoon presented a Guard of Honour at the St. Peter’s College Annual Prize Giving. The salute was accorded to distinguished old Peterite Hon. Gamini Athukorala.
The Platoon also attended its first annual assessment camp at the newly opened Rantembe Training Centre.
1992 | The Rantembe Years.
Sgt. T. G. A. N. Costa led the College Platoon to the NCC Training Centre at Rantembe. Peterite Cadets also represented the College at a Battalion Karate Camp in Kotahena.
1993 | The Last Train to Camp.
Sgt. M. A. J. Cooray led the Platoon to Rantembe.
Cadets travelled by special train from Colombo to Kandy before continuing by truck to Rantembe. Records identify this as the final occasion on which the College Platoon used the train journey to attend Battalion Assessment Camp.
1994 | The Long March.
Sgt. G. M. T. M. Aponso led the Platoon to the NCC Training Centre at Rantembe.
This year marked the last camp involving the traditional full compass and long march through Asnaduwa Peak and Uma Oya.
1995 | Fitness and Endurance.
Sgt. D. M. Peiris led the College Platoon at the annual Battalion Assessment Camp at Rantembe. He was remembered as a strong advocate of physical fitness and endurance within the Platoon.
1996 | Street Line Salute.
Sgt. K. P. D. T. Puspakumara led the Platoon to the Battalion Assessment Camp at Rantembe and earned College Colours for Cadeting.
The Cadets also presented a Street Line Salute to Air Chief Marshal O. M. Ranasinghe at the College Inter-House Athletic Meet.
1997 | From Peterite Sergeant to Commando Officer.
Sgt. D. T. L. Wettasinghe led the College Platoon to the Assessment Camp at Rantembe.
He later joined the Sri Lanka Army and became an officer of the elite Commando Regiment, serving with distinction during military operations and retired as a Major.
1998 | A Long Cadet Journey.
Sgt. A. S. H. Rodrigo took command of the College Platoon. Having been involved in Cadeting since 1991, he was also recognised with College Colours.
1999 | Continuing the Peterite Tradition.
Sgt. K. K. A. Vitanachy led the College Platoon to the Battalion Assessment Camp at Rantembe.
With three Assessment Camps and an NCO Camp to his credit, he earned College Colours for Cadeting.
2000 | Into a New Millennium.
Sgt. J. Rodrigo led the College Cadet Platoon to the Battalion Assessment Camp as Peterite Cadeting entered a new century.
2001 | Brothers in Cadeting.
Sgt. W. M. I. I. Dias led the College Platoon to the NCC Training Centre at Rantembe.
The same camp also saw his elder brother, Company Quarter Master W. M. N. S. Dias, representing the College, creating a unique moment in Peterite Cadet history.
2002 | The Tradition Continues.
Sgt. V. I. Padidilan took charge of the College Army Cadet Platoon and participated in the Battalion Assessment Camp at Rantembe. With three camps to his credit, he earned College Colours.
2003 | A Pause in Representation.
No College Platoon represented St. Peter’s at the annual assessment camp.
2004 | A Quiet Year.
No College Platoon represented St. Peter’s at the annual assessment camp.
2005 | Back on Parade.
Sgt. Colambage represented St. Peter’s College with the Platoon at the Battalion Assessment Camp.
2006 | Another Pause.
No College Platoon represented St. Peter’s at the annual assessment camp.
2007 | From Army Khaki to Air Cadet Blue.
This period marked a major transition in Peterite Cadeting.
Army Cadeting gradually gave way to Air Force Cadeting at St. Peter’s College under the leadership associated with D. L. Dimithra N. Gunasekara.
A different uniform. The same Peterite discipline.
2008 | Among the Island’s Best.
Sgt. D. M. S. M. B. Dissanayake led the College Air Cadet Platoon, which achieved 7th Place at the All-Island Air Cadet Wing Assessment Camp.
2009 | The Air Cadet Era Continues.
Sgt. Y. A. Abeyratne led the College Air Cadets to the annual Air Wing Assessment Camp.
2010 | Marching Forward.
Sgt. H. D. N. R. Shehan led the College Air Cadets to the Battalion Assessment Camp and earned College Colours.
2012 | Rising Again.
The College Air Cadet Platoon secured 3rd Place in Drill and 6th Place Overall.
The Platoon Sergeant, D. K. P. W. Jayasekara, later joined the Sri Lanka Army and earned the prestigious Maroon Beret of the Commando Regiment.
2013 | Champion Platoon.
A landmark year.
Under Sgt. J. M. D. U. M. Jayamanne, the College Air Cadets emerged as Champion Platoon at the Herman Loos Camp.
The era also produced Master Warrant Officer Stephen W. A. D. A. M., who later served as Parade Sergeant Major of the Annual Cadet Day Parade.
2014 | The Tradition Continues.
Sgt. D. B. A. S. Sirinanda led the College Air Cadets to the Battalion Assessment Camp.
MWO G. J. P. Karunarathne also distinguished himself through years of Cadet service and earned College Colours.
2015 | Best Commander – Drill.
Sgt. D. M. Henderlin led the Air Cadet Platoon and earned the distinction of BEST COMMANDER – DRILL.
Another proud chapter was added to the Peterite Cadet story.
1926 → 2026 100 Years of Peterite Cadeting.
A century cannot be measured only by trophies, camps, ranks or uniforms. It is measured by the young boys who entered the Platoon and the men they became.
For one hundred years, Peterite Cadeting has helped build Discipline, Courage, Leadership, Responsibility, Comradeship, Resilience, Service, Character.
Generations changed....Uniforms changed....The world changed.... But the Peterite March continued.
With gratitude to Lakmal Perera for researching and documenting Peterite Cadet history.
Junior Cadet Platoon recognised.
Senior platoon recognised and attached to the Battalion.
Hermann Loos Trophy for all-round efficiency.
The first great era concluded.
Cadeting revived at St. Peter's College.
One hundred years of Peterite cadeting.
Cadeting is not limited to a military future. Its habits travel into every profession. These distinguished former cadets show what courage, discipline and preparedness can become.

Former Director Ground Operations, Sri Lanka Air Force. A Peterite cadet from 1983 to 1985.

Sri Lanka Armoured Corps. He credits cadeting with adventure, preparedness and discipline.

A former cadet who identifies discipline, punctuality, teamwork and sound judgement as lifelong strengths.
The Cadet Foundation of St. Peter’s College (CFSPC) was formally established on 13 February 2021, marking an important new chapter in the long and proud history of Peterite Cadeting.
The Foundation was born from the need to create a structured body that could bring together generations of former Peterite Cadets and provide continued support for the development of cadeting at St. Peter’s College. Under the guidance and encouragement of the Rector of St. Peter’s College, Rev. Fr. Rohitha Rodrigo, former cadets came together with a shared vision of preserving the traditions of Peterite Cadeting while helping strengthen its future.
The idea behind CFSPC was not simply to form another Old Boys’ association, but to create a dedicated platform through which former cadets could give back their experience, knowledge and resources to the College Cadet Platoon. The Foundation would help strengthen training, leadership development, mentoring, facilities and activities while building a lasting connection between past and present generations of Peterite Cadets.
A Historic Beginning
The founding day commenced in keeping with the Catholic traditions of St. Peter’s College, with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist at the College Chapel. Former cadets representing several generations attended the Mass, together with Peterites serving in the Armed Forces, some proudly present in full military uniform.
Following Holy Mass, the gathering proceeded to the College Memorial of the Gallant, where a brief prayer was offered in remembrance of Peterites who had made the supreme sacrifice in defence of the peace and sovereignty of our beloved motherland.
A floral tribute was then laid in their honour, followed by the traditional sounding of the Retreat by bugle call at 1800 hours, creating a solemn and memorable conclusion to the commemorative proceedings.
The Inaugural General Meeting
The Inaugural General Meeting of the Cadet Foundation of St. Peter’s College was subsequently held at the College Clubhouse.
Representing the College and Peterite community were Rev. Fr. Rohitha Rodrigo, Rector of St. Peter’s College; Mr. Ravika De Silva, President of the Old Boys’ Union; and Mr. Dilanka Peiris, Chairman of OPSC.
Distinguished representatives of the National Cadet Corps included Lt. Col. Shirantha Gunawardena, Commanding Officer of the 3rd Battalion, National Cadet Corps; Major Balasooriya, Officer in Charge of Training; and the Battalion Adjutant, together with former cadets and other invitees.
The establishment of CFSPC created a permanent bridge between the proud heritage of Peterite Cadeting and its future. It brought together former cadets with one common purpose: to preserve the traditions handed down through generations, support the cadets of today and help develop disciplined, confident and responsible young men prepared for life beyond the College gates.
What began on 13 February 2021 was therefore more than the formation of a Foundation. It was the beginning of a renewed commitment by generations of Peterite Cadets to ensure that the spirit, values and legacy of Peterite Cadeting continue to grow for generations to come.
Close coordination with College authorities and lectures facilitated through internal and external resource personnel.
Led by Walter NoelSing Along 2025 and Sing Along 2026 became consecutive landmark social and fundraising events, strengthening Peterite fellowship, visibility and financial stability.
Jointly led by the Executive CommitteeThe original constitution was reviewed, gaps identified and a new draft prepared for membership feedback and AGM ratification.
Led by Roshan FernandoAn insurance scheme initiative was introduced to build long-term member welfare, value and continued engagement.
Led by Chamira PereraSample entry showing how new uniforms, training equipment and field resources could be recorded as a Foundation achievement.
Sample project teamSample entry for a programme where experienced past cadets mentor students in leadership, communication and responsible decision-making.
Sample training initiativeSample entry demonstrating a structured link between former cadets and the present platoon through career and personal-development guidance.
Sample alumni projectSample entry reserved for activities celebrating 100 years of Peterite cadeting through history, ceremony and renewed recruitment.
Sample centenary projectCFSPC supported the College Platoon in presenting a Guard of Honour to Army Commander General Lasantha Rodrigo, coordinating visiting-cadet transport, training support, logistics and liaison with Cadet Corps officers.
2nd Lieutenant Dushantha Hermendra stepped down as Assistant Secretary to volunteer as MIC of the College Cadet Platoon.
Active engagement was initiated to strengthen ties, resource sharing and continuous development of the College Platoon.
The Foundation acknowledges the OBU President, Secretary and Committee for their encouragement, collaboration and assistance.
Sample event showing how a practical leadership, communication and decision-making workshop can be presented with its complete photo set.
Sample event reserved for a future equipment, uniform or training-resource presentation supported by Foundation members.
Sample event demonstrating the collection and preservation of historic platoon photographs, records and memories for the centenary.
Sample event for explaining the benefits, safety, training structure and future value of cadeting to students and their parents.
Choose a term to view its office bearers and committee. The 2024/2025 record is confirmed; earlier terms contain temporary sample names for later replacement.

A landmark social and fundraising event presented at Marino Beach Colombo, with music by C Plus. The evening strengthened Peterite fellowship and the Foundation's public presence.
The second consecutive landmark social and fundraising event strengthened fellowship, public visibility and the Foundation's financial stability.
A Foundation musical gathering featuring Annesley Malewana and the Super Chimes.
The Cadet Foundation of St. Peter's College held its inaugural general meeting at the OBU Secretariat Building.
The Foundation's Annual General Meeting was held at the OBU Secretariat.
Training support, NCC engagement, resource mobilisation and alumni participation continue under the 2026 committee.
The journey of Peterite Cadeting grows through the ideas and support of our community. We welcome constructive feedback from parents, students, Old Peterites, former cadets, staff and well-wishers. Share your ideas by filling the form here. Every good idea can help shape the next chapter of Peterite Cadeting and develop disciplined, responsible and confident young men.
★★★★★I think cadeting has brought many benefits to my life, to who i am now. I recommend this activity to all students in the country. I have already decided my son will Join the Peterite cadet platton.
★★★★★Truely amaing work on this