Wow. Look at St Catherine’s College. Its striking modern architecture stands in contrast to Oxford’s more traditional colleges. This isn’t just any college. St Catherine’s has a fascinating history. It’s a story of evolution. A story of adapting to changing times.
The college’s roots go back to 1868. It began as a delegacy for students not attached to any college. These students were often less affluent. They needed a way to get an Oxford education without the high cost of membership in an established college. The delegacy aimed to open Oxford’s doors to a broader population. They succeeded. Over time thousands of men benefited from this opportunity.
Initially the delegacy had just one room. Students found lodgings elsewhere in Oxford. However they soon developed a strong sense of community. In 1884 they were renamed the Delegacy for Non-Collegiate Students. By 1931 they had officially become St Catherine’s Society.
The transformation into a full residential college happened in 1962. This pivotal moment was spearheaded by historian Alan Bullock. He was the first Master of the college. Bullock had a vision for a modern. egalitarian college. He secured funding and land. He hired the renowned Danish architect Arne Jacobsen.
Jacobsen’s design is a masterpiece of modernism. His work at St Catherine’s is considered one of the world’s best examples of this style. He designed everything. From the furniture to the cutlery to the gardens themselves. Even the fish in the pond were chosen by him. The buildings maximise the number of rooms. Jacobsen intended for academically qualified students who lacked financial resources to study comfortably at Oxford. The original buildings received Grade I listing in 1993. His design even included a unique bell tower. It’s particularly noticeable because no building is higher than three storeys.
The college’s commitment to progress continued. In 1974 St Catherine’s was among the first men’s colleges to admit women. The college continues to grow and adapt. Extensions have been added over the years. The Ainsworth Graduate Centre completed in 2019 is one. It’s named in honour of Roger Ainsworth a former Master.
Today St Catherine’s College is a vibrant hub. It’s home to both undergraduates and postgraduates. It boasts one of the largest student populations among Oxford colleges. Its history is a testament to its innovative spirit and commitment to inclusivity. This makes St Catherine’s a truly remarkable place. A college that exemplifies the blending of tradition and modernity. A truly unique institution within the venerable walls of Oxford University.