St Andrews Responds to Death of Queen Elizabeth II
Updated: Sep 10, 2022
Union Jacks in St Salvator’s Quad and Town Hall replaced the typical saltires, flying at half-mast as St. Andrews mourns the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
In a statement from Principal Sally Mapstone, she said, "This a sad and poignant moment for millions of people in this country, across the Commonwealth, and across the world. A remarkable and long-serving head of State, Her Majesty was also a deeply loved and cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, and our thoughts are with all those affected by her loss at this time."
She continued, "We will send letters of condolence to His Majesty The King, and our alumni, Their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.”
She noted that work and study will “continue as normal” but that “extra-curricular events and activities however should be considered carefully,” recognising that the UK has now entered a formal period of mourning.
Proctor Claire Peddie also emailed regarding teaching: “Absences from students who are mourning will be treated as excused.”
She also stated that Student Services and the Chaplaincy are available if you feel you’ve been affected by the loss and require further support.
A Book Of Condolence has been made available in College Gate between 10am and 4pm each week day until after the funeral is held.
On the day of the funeral, which is yet to be announced, no teaching will be held. The University will confirm further arrangement once the date is confirmed.
Addressing the student body, particularly society heads, in an email, Sabbatical Officers have requested that student events be adjusted, cancelled, or rescheduled considering circumstances.
Accordingly, several Freshers’ Week events have been cancelled or rescheduled. Starfields, arguably Freshers’ Week's biggest event due to occur 10 September, has been postponed. Many societies will likely follow suit until the official 12 day mourning period ends.