A Royal Return to Lakefield: His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain Visits LCS
Forty years after graduating as a member of the Class of 1985, His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain returned to Lakefield College School on May 21, 2026, this time as Head of State and a proud member of the LCS community.
Students, Heads of House, visiting dignitaries, and school leadership gathered in A.W. Mackenzie Chapel for a community address recognizing the enduring connection between His Majesty and the Lakefield community, while faculty, staff, guests, and members of the Class of 1985 viewed the livestream from the Bryan Jones Theatre. Following a moving performance by the LCS Lorelei Consort and special remarks, students throughout the Chapel stood waving Canadian and Spanish flags while His Majesty and Head of School Anne-Marie Kee walked down the aisle together. The moment reflected the pride, warmth and spirit of community felt throughout the day by many.
“Education does not impose ideas; rather, it enables us to think, to question, and to understand. In doing so, we learn not only to know, but to discern; not only to speak, but also to listen; and not only to aspire for ourselves, but to contribute to others.”
“Here, I found not only academic knowledge, but also a way of understanding the world — and living it — with more harmony, respect for others and tolerance of our differences.”
— His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain
Throughout the visit, His Majesty revisited many of the places and experiences that shaped his time at LCS, including a tour of campus, time spent in classrooms with students, a return to Grove House, and a visit to his former room. For many students, the visit offered a rare opportunity to see how the friendships and values formed at Lakefield can resonate far beyond graduation and across the world.
“One of the most important things I have learned in this life is that you cannot make old friends, and there are few things in this world as valuable as having them.”
— Anne-Marie Kee, Head of School & Foundation
The day also marked several significant moments for the school community, including the announcement of His Majesty as Honorary Patron of the Lakefield College School Foundation and the naming of the future King Felipe VI of Spain Student Centre.
Made possible through the leadership and generosity of members of the Class of 1985, the future student centre will serve as a hub for student leadership and community life, while standing as a lasting tribute to friendship, shared history, and the enduring bonds formed at Lakefield.
This visit was more than a celebration of a distinguished alumnus. It was a meaningful reminder of the lasting impact a Lakefield education can have across generations.
