Across Glasgow, further education unfolds. Here at Glasgow Clyde College – Langside Campus, a vibrant history and a promising future converge.
Glasgow Clyde College – Langside Campus stands as a testament to Glasgow’s commitment to education. It is situated in the Mount Florida/Battlefield area. The campus boasts its own pedestrian entrance from Mount Florida railway station.
Langside Campus wasn’t always known by that name. Once it was Langside College. Langside College has a rich history dating back to 1947. In its prime, it welcomed over 5,000 students annually. Many came from countries outside the European Union.
The college wasn’t confined to a single space. It operated in two main campuses. It also used over 80 community venues across Glasgow’s South side. These venues included Rutherglen, Govanhill, Castlemilk and Toryglen.
The campus underwent significant development. Phase 1 of the new main campus opened in May 2009. Phase 2, featuring sports, music and drama facilities, followed in August 2010. The final phase, an outdoor sports facility, was completed in February 2011.
Before these modern facilities, the original main building had its own story. Built in 1868 as the Glasgow Deaf and Dumb Institution, this Category B-listed building was sold. It was transformed into apartments known as Chroma House.
Langside College entered merger talks in January 2012. It considered joining forces with Cardonald College and Anniesland College. A formal consultation took place throughout the autumn of 2012.
In December 2012, Susan Walsh, then principal of Cardonald College, was appointed principal of the new college. On August 1, 2013, Langside College merged with Anniesland College and Cardonald College. This merger created Glasgow Clyde College. Langside College then became Glasgow Clyde College Langside Campus.
Today, Glasgow Clyde College has three campuses. They are located at Anniesland, Cardonald and here at Langside. The college provides over 500 full-time and part-time courses. These prepare students for university progression, professional skill enhancement, or new hobbies.
The Langside Campus itself comprises four buildings. There is the main Battlefield Building. Also, there are the 1568 Theatre, The LITEhouse and the Mary Stuart Building. The Mary Stuart Building was formerly the Business School. In October 2017, a new Horticulture Teaching Block was added.
Glasgow Clyde College has many famous former students. William Haughey, later Baron Haughey, attended. He is a Scottish businessman and philanthropist. The Scottish actor Iain De Caestecker is also an alumnus. The Scottish comedian Frankie Boyle studied here too.
Glasgow Clyde College – Langside Campus continues to evolve. It provides educational opportunities. It empowers individuals. It shapes the future of Glasgow and beyond.