Kingswood College

Standing proudly on Randles Hill, overlooking the bustling city, Kingswood College, Kandy, tells a story of resilience and a pursuit of excellence. Founded in 1891 by Louis Edmund Blaze, a visionary educationist, Kingswood was initially a small boys’ school, operating in the modest lodgings of Pavilion Street. Blaze, a Trinity College graduate, had studied abroad in India and was inspired by the English public school system. He modelled his vision for Kingswood after these institutions, striving to create a place of learning where teachers and students could build a close and meaningful relationship. This was a noble endeavor, and Blaze had to work tirelessly to make Kingswood a reality. With limited funds, he relied on his strong determination, the support of his family, and the hard work of his few students. Despite these challenges, Kingswood College saw a rapid growth in the late 1890s and was taken over by the Wesleyan Methodist Missionary as a means of obtaining financial stability. It was at this time that Kingswood College adopted its name, a tribute to the esteemed Kingswood School in England. The 1920s saw further growth at Kingswood. In 1922, Blaze introduced a house system, naming the houses after renowned English public schools – Eton, Harrow, Rugby and Winchester, a testament to his admiration for such institutions. The school also relocated to a new complex at Randles Hill. This move, made possible by a generous donation from a British industrialist, Sir John Scurrah Randles, allowed Kingswood College to flourish and expand its academic and athletic offerings. Kingswood College continues to stand as a testament to the unwavering vision of L.E. Blaze, a remarkable figure who played a crucial role in shaping the future of education in Sri Lanka.