Priestley-2021-prospectus-lo-res

priestley.ac.uk 01925 415415
A proud history of success
At Priestley we are always looking to the future to ensure that our students achieve
their full potential, but we are also very proud of our past. For example, how fitting it
is that a college named after the scientist who discovered oxygen is now credited
with providing some of the finest science, technology, engineering and maths
education in the country! Here are some of the main landmarks in Priestley’s history.
1733 - Joseph Priestley was born and later his
name would be taken by the college. Priestley
discovered oxygen in 1774 and was a clergyman and
chemist as well as a pioneer in teaching modern
history and the sciences. Priestley was also a
founder member of the American Constitution.
1979 - The sixth forms at Boteler Grammar School
and Warrington High School are merged to form
Priestley College. There were around 350 students
under the headship of David Henderson.
1991 - Priestley became a self-governing
independent corporation. Now part of the Further
Education sector.
Mid 90s - Adult evening classes were introduced.
2002 - David Henderson retired after overseeing a
steady growth of students to just over 1,000.
2003 - The Sports Centre opened complete with
basketball court and gym.
2007 - An Ofsted inspection found that Priestley
was an ‘outstanding’ college ‘where every learner
matters’, under Principal Mike Southworth.
2007 - The Crescent Building opened providing a
new, modern façade to the campus. It provides
more than 20 classrooms and a popular café space.
2009 - More than 2,000 students now attend the
college, the increase in numbers due to
performance, campus investment and variety of
courses.
2014 - The £1.5million Lewis Carroll Building was
opened by guest of honour Dr David Whan, a
trustee of the New Engineering Foundation.
It became the centre for Priestley’s IT and
Computing courses.
2015 - Matthew Grant became Principal and went
on to oversee the formation of The Challenge
Academy Trust.
2015 - Priestley became the first college in the
country to be awarded STEM Assured Status and
also received the Matrix accreditation in honour of
the quality of its advice and guidance.
2019 - Warrington Wolves win the Challenge
Cup – the team featuring three former Sport
Priestley students.
2019 - Priestley recorded its best ever set of
A-Level results alongside some excellent
vocational results.
2019 - Ofsted praise Priestley in its latest report
saying: “Teachers ensure students develop the
skills and knowledge they need to be successful
in their qualifications and in their working life.”
2020 - James Gresty is appointed Principal and
promised to continue the mission of academic
excellence for all.
REASONS
TO CHOOSE
PRIESTLEY
Excellent industry
links provide
high-level work
placement
opportunities
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