University of Wolverhampton

The roots of the University of Wolverhampton lie in the 19th century growth of Mechanics Institutes, which provided vocational and general education for working men. The Wolverhampton Free Library also developed technical, scientific, commercial and general classes. Teaching first began in 1851 at the School of Art, and the study of art became a key focus – with new buildings, and a new name for the Municipal School of Art in 1885.

By 1903, an educational foundation had firmly been established with over 1,300 students studying courses including coach building, house painting and pattern making. In 1905, the first student scholarships were awarded. As student numbers continued to grow, expansion became necessary. In 1912, the ‘Deanery House' in Wulfruna Street was bought and in 1920 it was demolished, making way for the iconic Wulfruna building you see today in Wulfruna Street.

The foundation stone of the major new buildings in Wulfruna Street was laid by Prince George in 1931. The foundation stone was laid by HRH Prince George in 1932 and in 1933 the Wolverhampton and Staffordshire Technical College was born. With further education traditionally accessible only to the wealthy, the College vowed to ensure that even the most under-privileged men and women would have the opportunity to study a higher education – an ethos nurtured and sustained to the present day.