School Of Life
International
Creating an environment that nurtures joyful learning, supports student growth, and empowers every individual to reach their full potential.
Our
mission
At School Of Life, we believe every child deserves an environment where they feel safe, comfortable, and inspired to learn. Upon moving to Matara, we noticed that while schools were present, they didn't align with our vision for education. Through the eyes of our children, we realised a universal truth about learners—whether their strengths lie in academics, the arts, or a blend of both, all children thrive when learning is meaningful and feels enjoyable.
Our mission is to create a space where education is both interactive and engaging, sparking a lifelong passion for learning. We focus on academic excellence with an approach that nurtures growth without placing undue stress on children. That’s why we established School Of Life in Kekanadura—to provide the nurturing environment children need in today's world.
Where and why?
Nestled in the serene and open surroundings of Matara, our school provides the perfect environment to foster calmness and help students focus on what truly matters: their learning journey.
Prime Location
500 m from Kekanadura Railway Station
8 km from Matara town
12 km from the Hiriketiya
33km from Tangalle
36km from Welligama
This region is rich in culture and natural beauty but is in need of enhanced educational opportunities. We are proud to contribute to the development of this vibrant community.
The tranquil environment allows us to design classrooms that feel warm and welcoming, creating a safe, homely space where children can thrive.
Our teaching
philosophy
School Of Life
At School Of Life, our students follow the esteemed British educational system, complemented by a variety of proven techniques drawn from across Europe. These innovative methods, renowned for fostering academic excellence in a supportive and stress-free environment, allow us to provide a holistic and enriching learning experience for every child.
This progressive system emphasises a balanced, student-centered learning experience that prioritises well-being and meaningful engagement.
We are adapting these proven techniques to better suit the needs of Sri Lankan and international students, creating a harmonious blend of global best practices and local cultural relevance. By moving away from the rigid and stress-heavy traditional approaches still common in many countries, we aim to cultivate an environment where children can truly thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
How we are different
Soft skills
While many schools overlook soft skills, we consider them vital to a child’s development. We emphasise equipping students with essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, empowering them to handle various real-world situations. Whether it's collaborating on a group project, presenting ideas clearly, or navigating interpersonal challenges, our students are prepared to succeed.
External speakers
By welcoming professionals and individuals from diverse backgrounds into our school, we aim to inspire our students to recognise the limitless possibilities the world offers. Discovering their passions early on can pave the way for achieving greatness.
Project-based learning
Our school prioritises teaching through real-life experiences. Beyond classroom learning, students will engage in field trips that reinforce their lessons and demonstrate the real-world applications of their knowledge.
Student-driven learning
We celebrate the uniqueness of each student and aim to nurture, not suppress, their individuality. By actively listening to our students and discovering their passions, our teachers craft engaging and relevant classes tailored to their interests.
Ecological surroundings
Providing our students with a vast natural area is the cornerstone of our philosophy. Students absorb knowledge more effectively when immersed in nature, gaining hands-on experience and learning directly from the environment rather than solely from textbooks.
Meet the Founders
School Of Life
Born in London, Sebastian moved to Sri Lanka in 1997 and connected deeply with its people and culture, making it his permanent home. After his studies, he worked at a leading international school in Colombo for five years, gained his CELTA qualification, and later founded a charitable school in the city.
Principal and Co-Founder
Sebastian Lawrance
Jule holds a degree in Language and Communication Science and Psychology. She has furthered her expertise by completing several trainings as a German as a Foreign Language teacher and a mental coach. After traveling the world and exploring different cultures, Jule chose Sri Lanka to raise her three children.
Co-Founder
Jule Bethke
Born in Hamburg, Germany, Paul moved to Sri Lanka in 1997 where he finished his schooling. He pursued Business Studies and Psychology at the University of Edinburgh, Economics in Germany, and completed his education at Sorbonne University in Paris. Back in Germany, he founded a company that supports charitable projects in Sri Lanka and beyond. Since 2022 he has served as the Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka.
Co-Founder
Paul Bethke