Originally named Paddington Technical Institute, City of Westminster College started its journey in 1904. Today we will explore its history. City of Westminster College has become a vital part of London’s education landscape.
Paddington Technical Institute opened its doors focusing on vocational subjects. These included building commerce dressmaking and engineering. The college addressed the needs of a changing society.
After World War I, the college grew significantly. More young people sought education. By the 1930s, student numbers neared 1000.
In 1967, the college moved to a purpose-built site on Paddington Green. It changed its name to Paddington Technical College. The new building featured advanced facilities. These facilities included a vehicle workshop.
The college became City of Westminster College in 1990. This followed the abolition of the Inner London Education Authority. In 1993, it gained self-governing status.
The City of Westminster College can trace its origins to an evening institute. This institute started in World War I. It provided lip-reading classes for deafened servicemen. The classes were held in St George’s Church vestry.
The institute became St George’s Institute. It moved to several locations. These included St George’s Row School and Ebury Bridge.
By the 1930s, St George’s Institute expanded rapidly. Classrooms and labs were at Westminster City College. An agreement with Westminster Training College allowed more student hours.
In 1951, the institute took over the Waterloo Road School site. By 1959, it had 41 full-time staff. Full-time courses began in Civil Service Commerce and University Entrance.
The institute moved to Francis House in 1954. New departments of Science Social Studies and Day Release work were created. By 1962, over 6000 students were enrolled.
In 1965, the Arts Department moved to the West London College of Commerce. In 1959, the institute was renamed City of Westminster College.
In 1970, City of Westminster College joined other institutions. They formed the Polytechnic of the South Bank.
City of Westminster College opened its new Paddington Green Campus in 2011. The £102 million building replaced a 1960s structure.
Schmidt hammer lassen designed the Paddington Green Campus. It features a central atrium green roof terraces and community access areas. The Sarah Siddons Theatre is a key feature.
The Paddington Green Campus won RIBA Awards for London 2011. It also won a New London Award.
Today, City of Westminster College continues to evolve. It offers courses in many fields. These fields include Sport Digital Media and Construction.
The college is an associate partner of Middlesex University and University of Westminster. It is part of Westminster Skillset Media Academy.
City of Westminster College has a rich history. It has adapted to meet the needs of its students and the community. Its commitment to education remains strong.