Holy Cross College, Kalutara, began in 1880 when Mr Brohier started a
Private school managed by Rev. Fr. Wilkinson OMI (Priest of Parish of Kalamulla, Kalutara) near Holy Cross Church. In 1902, Rev. Fr. Leo Fernando (Priest of Parish of Kalamulla, Kalutara) officially founded the college on its current site to provide English education. By 1904, enrollment reached 75 students. Under Rev. Fr. Martin Herel (1905–1912), the college gained permission to enter students for Cambridge Examinations, promoted cricket—producing famous cricketer M.K. Albert—and built the Lady of Lourdes grotto. Between 1912 and 1930, the school introduced a library, science labs, cadetting, and was elevated to Senior Secondary School status. The college hall was inaugurated in 1927. Rev. Fr. Gaston Chaulieu’s tenure (1930–1946) marked a golden era, characterised by physical expansion, the introduction of London Matriculation exams, and the establishment of a house system named after past principals. In 1935, the girls’ school separated as Holy Family Convent. Post-independence, under Rev. Fr. Arthur Nicholas Fernando (1946–1948), the college acquired its own playground and was upgraded to an “A” Grade institution. The first Prime Minister,
D. S. Senanayake, was the chief guest at the 1948 prize-giving. The Golden Jubilee was celebrated during Rev. Fr. Benedict Pinto’s leadership, with Governor General Lord Soulbury attending. In the 1960s, government takeover of denominational schools forced Holy Cross to become a private non-fee levying school, sustained by community and Archdiocese support. Cadetting was discontinued due to the loss of facilities. The Marist Brothers took over management in 1978, led by Rev. Bro. Francis Silva, who initiated the construction of new buildings and secured government salary payments. Successors expanded the infrastructure further, adding a brass band and new classrooms. As of 2025, the college serves about 1,800 students with 100 teachers. == Houses ==