The 2nd in the series of Programs with the school was held on 30th July 2012 on the subject “Your Changing Body” with the target audience being Grades 6, 7 & 8. Almost 500 students attended the program which was expertly conducted by Dr. Shamila Amerasekera, BM, MRCOG, Specialist Obstetrician & Gynecologist a past Bridegtine and a member of the Past Pupils Association. The very interactive session, with the students being rewarded with little gifts for participating in the discussion covered many topics which were of great interest to girls of this age. The areas covered included growth spurts, growing pains, signs of puberty, what to expect during puberty, cramps during menstruation, participating in sports, swimming etc. and general hygiene. The talk was illustrated with very down to earth visuals and a video clip on the subject followed. Yet another very musical video clip which demonstrated the importance of being happy and doing everything at this changing time was enjoyed by the students.

The program commenced with a Welcome address from Rev. Sr.  Shermila Jayawardena, Principal of the Collegiate school, which was followed by an Introduction of the PPA programs with the school by Dr. Nirmala M. Pieris, President of the Past Pupils Association of SBC.  

The program was moderated by Ms. Dilani Yatawaka. A team of members from the PPA Executive Committee and volunteer members of the Sub-committee on “Student and Teacher Development Programs” were at hand to assist. The appreciation of the girls was given in the form of a Vote of Thanks by one of the students.

This concluded yet another very successful knowledge based PPA program with the school where the major objective of the 2012/2013 Executive Committee is to impart knowledge that is supplementary to the standard educational school programs.

Resource Person Profile :

Dr. Shamila Amarasekera BM (Southampton) MRCOG (UK)

* Undergraduate Training at Southampton University UK

* Postgraduate Training in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Addenbrooke’s University Hospital, Cambridge and University of Sri Jayawardenapura Professorial Unit, Colombo South Teaching Hospital

* Subspecialty interest in Adolescent Gynaecology and Sexual & Reproductive Health

* Regular guest lecturer at Elizabeth Moir Junior and Senior School Sexual Health Education programs