Leith Academy

Did J.K. Rowling ever imagine, while teaching French at Leith Academy, that her future students might be learning about her *and* Harry Potter in the same classrooms? Here we stand before Leith Academy. It’s a vibrant hub of learning, buzzing with the energy of nearly 1,000 pupils and thousands of adult learners. Leith Academy isn’t just a modern school. It’s a place steeped in history, with roots stretching back to 1560. Imagine Leith in the 16th century. A grammar school emerges, nurturing young minds under the watchful eye of South Leith Parish Church. The school’s journey from those early days to its current state-of-the-art building on Academy Park is a testament to the community’s dedication to education. Leith Academy’s first known location was Trinity House in 1636. After a rent dispute, the school relocated to King James Hospital, now the site of South Leith Parish Churchyard. By 1806, a purpose-built structure designed by Robert Burn rose beside Leith Links. The name “Leith Academy” officially graced the institution in 1888. The academy expanded. A new building replaced the Leith Links structure in 1898. This building later became Leith Primary School. Growth continued, necessitating another move in 1931 to Duke Street. This building, after serving as part of Queen Margaret University College, has since been transformed into flats. Finally, in 1991, after considerable campaigning by staff, students, and parents, the current Leith Academy building opened its doors near Easter Road. The design is innovative, featuring a central “Main Street” with a glass roof and flanking plants, connecting all departments. Even the BBC’s “Beechgrove Garden” showcased these vibrant plants. Leith Academy continues to thrive. It has hosted BBC’s “The Big Questions” and boasts notable alumni like actor Mark Bonnar, rugby coach Kitch Christie, and footballer Leigh Griffiths. The connection with South Leith Parish Church remains strong. The school’s annual Christmas service still echoes within the church walls. Leith Academy stands as a testament to its enduring motto: “Persevere.”