St Leonards School will host a special ceremony on Tuesday, 28 April 2026 to unveil a historical blue plaque commemorating Sir Hugh Lyon Playfair, one of the most influential figures in the modern history of St Andrews.
Installed on St Leonards House, the main school reception, the plaque recognises Playfair’s enduring legacy as Provost of St Andrews from 1842 to 1861 and his transformative role in revitalising the town during the 19th century. St Leonards House was Playfair’s family home until his death. Often credited with “rescuing” St Andrews from decline, Playfair’s work to restore the harbour, improve infrastructure, and preserve the town’s distinctive architectural character continues to shape the town today.
The unveiling ceremony will be attended by Edward Playfair, a direct descendant of Sir Hugh Lyon Playfair and Guest of Honour, who will officially reveal the plaque. He will be joined by distinguished speakers including Dita Stanis-Traken, Chair of the St Andrews Pilgrim Foundation, Roger McStravick, Trustee of the St Andrews Pilgrim Foundation and Angus Franklin, Trustee of the St Andrews Preservation Trust. The ceremony will be opened by Simon Brian, Head of St Leonards. welcoming guests and reflecting on the significance of the occasion for the school community.
The event also forms part of the school’s wider commitment to bringing local history to life for its pupils. In advance of the unveiling, Year 7 pupils will explore the life and achievements of Sir Hugh Lyon Playfair in a dedicated lesson, ensuring they are actively engaged in understanding the historical significance of the figure being honoured. Their presence at the ceremony reflects the school’s emphasis on connecting academic learning with place-based heritage.
This commemoration highlights not only the lasting impact of Sir Hugh Lyon Playfair’s leadership but also the enduring relationship between the Playfair family and St Andrews. Looking ahead, there are further plans to continue this celebration of local heritage with a plaque to be installed at Queen Mary’s Library on the St Leonards campus, honouring Mary, Queen of Scots, who is known to have stayed in the building during her time in St Andrews.
Members of the press are warmly invited to attend the ceremony.
By marking these historic connections with permanent plaques, St Leonards School continues to celebrate the rich history of its surroundings while inspiring current and future generations to appreciate the legacy of those who shaped it.
Categories: School News St Leonards
