Hillcroft College

In 1920, a beacon of hope ignited for women seeking education. Hillcroft College, initially known as The National Residential College for Women, opened its doors. This institution, nestled in Surbiton, was a unique haven. It was designed specifically for adult women, a British equivalent to the prestigious Ruskin College in Oxford. Hillcroft College offered women a path to knowledge and empowerment. It didn’t matter their background or prior qualifications. Hillcroft welcomed them all. This ethos made it a trailblazer in the British further education system. The college’s history intertwines with the story of its building. Originally named “The Gables,” it was once the home of Wilberforce Bryant. He was a Victorian Quaker and owner of the Bryant & May match company. A fascinating piece of history connects the site to Surbiton station. A tunnel, built for Bryant, runs from the house down to the station. The grounds also hold a secret from World War II: a hidden bunker. These historical remnants add to the intrigue of Hillcroft College. After Bryant, the house passed to Alfred Cooper, chairman of Ridgeway’s Tea. He added a theatre to the property, which served as a military hospital during the Boer War. The last private owner was shipping magnate Herbert Boret. He was forced to sell the estate in 1925 due to financial losses from World War I. The Residential College for Working Women, established in 1920, purchased the estate. This marked the beginning of Hillcroft College’s journey as a center for women’s education. It offered a path “Through rough ways to the stars,” as its motto proclaimed. Hillcroft College has empowered generations of women through education. It stands as a testament to the vision of its founders and the enduring spirit of its students. In 2017, Hillcroft College merged with Richmond Adult Community College to form Richmond and Hillcroft Adult Community College (RHACC). While the future holds changes, the legacy of Hillcroft College remains a powerful story of access to education and female empowerment.