For a century, Kingston College (KC) has stood as a beacon of excellence, resilience, and national contribution. Founded on April 16, 1925, by the visionary Anglican cleric Bishop Percival Gibson, Kingston College was established to provide opportunities for young men of talent and potential, regardless of socioeconomic background. Over the past 100 years, the school has remained true to this mission, shaping generations of outstanding scholars, athletes, and leaders who have left an indelible mark on Jamaica and the world.
A Legacy of Academic and Athletic Excellence
From its humble beginnings with 49 students, Kingston College has grown into one of Jamaica’s premier institutions, boasting nearly 2,000 students across its North Street and Melbourne Park campuses. The school’s motto, Fortis Cadere Cedere Non Potest—”The Brave May Fall But Never Yield”—embodies the spirit that drives its students and alumni to excel against all odds.
Academically, KC has cultivated some of Jamaica’s finest minds, consistently ranking among the top schools in national and regional examinations. Many of its alumni have gone on to become influential figures in education, business, law, engineering, medicine, politics, and the arts.
On the track and field circuit, Kingston College has dominated the Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships (Champs), securing a record number of titles and producing some of the greatest athletes to represent Jamaica on the global stage. The school’s commitment to athletic development has been instrumental in fostering Jamaica’s world-renowned sprinting culture, making it a natural partner for the Gibson McCook Relays.
Kingston College and The Gibson McCook Relays
The Gibson McCook Relays have long been a crucial part of Jamaica’s athletic ecosystem, helping to refine the batonpassing skills that have made the nation a powerhouse in the sprint relays. Kingston College has been a fixture at this event since its inception, consistently fielding strong teams and contributing to the competitive and electrifying atmosphere that defines the relays.
KC’s history at the Gibson McCook Relays is filled with memorable performances, thrilling victories, and the development of athletes who have gone on to achieve greatness on the international stage. As Jamaica celebrates its legacy in track and field, it is impossible to overlook the role of institutions like Kingston College in cultivating the country’s relay culture.
The KC Centennial Development Programme: Building For The Future
As Kingston College enters its second century, it is committed to sustaining and expanding its legacy through the KC Centenary Development Programme, a visionary initiative designed to upgrade and enhance the school’s infrastructure. Key projects include:
– Finalization and Official Opening of the Douglas Forrest Building, ensuring state-of-the-art facilities for learning and development.
– Securing additional lands to accommodate the growing student population and provide better facilities.
– Construction of a multi-purpose auditorium, a flagship project that will serve as a hub for cultural, academic, and sporting activities.
– Renovation of St. Augustine’s Chapel, preserving the school’s spiritual heritage while incorporating modern enhancements.
– Development of a sustainable water well at Melbourne Park to support eco-friendly irrigation.
– Implementation of the Kingston College Solarization Project, promoting renewable energy solutions for a greener future.
– The Fortis Walkway Legacy Initiative, allowing alumni and supporters to leave a lasting mark on the institution.
– North Street Campus Frontage Improvement, transforming the face of Kingston College into a more modern and welcoming environment.
These projects, made possible through the unwavering support of the alumni and broader KC community, reflect the school’s commitment to preparing students for success in an ever-evolving world while maintaining the rich traditions that define its legacy.
A Celebration of History and Future
As Kingston College prepares to mark a monumental milestone in its storied history, anticipation is building for a year-long celebration befitting its illustrious past and promising future. The 2025 Centenary Programme of Events, meticulously crafted to honour this legacy, promises to be a true testament to Kingston College’s enduring commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and the
development of well-rounded individuals. Spanning across the months, the slate of event promises to encapsulate the spirit of Fortis, while embracing themes of heritage, innovation, and service.
Throughout 2025, a series of events will commemorate this historic milestone, bringing together students, alumni, faculty, and well-wishers to celebrate a century of resilience and achievement.
In April, in highlighting Founder’s Week, the centenary celebrations will unfold with a distinguished series of events, including a solemn church service, a grand Float Parade through the streets of Kingston, the unveiling of the KC Centenary commemorative postal stamp collection, and the prestigious Purple Tie & Awards Banquet. Adding to the month’s vibrancy, the KC Chapel Choir High Schools Choral
Festival will take centre stage, celebrating the rich musical heritage and enduring camaraderie that define the Kingston College experience. As the year unfolds, the Centenary Programme will continue to captivate, inspire, and unite the Fortis family in a shared legacy of excellence.
As we honour this journey at the 2025 Gibson McCook Relays, we recognize the invaluable role that athletics has played in KC’s history and in the broader national consciousness. The partnership between the Centennial Celebrations and the Gibson McCook Relays is a fitting tribute to a shared tradition of excellence.
With our motto as our guide, Kingston College stands ready to embrace the next century with the same determination and fortitude that has defined its first 100 years. Fortis Forever!