St Edmunds

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Founded 1896 by Henry Fitzalan-Howard 15th Duke of Norfolk and Baron Anatole von Hügel. Named after Saint Edmund of Abingdon. Sister College – Green Templeton College Oxford. Men and Women over 21. Mature Undergraduates 140 Postgraduates 350.

St Edmund’s is one of a group of Cambridge colleges geared towards mature students – which in Oxbridge speak, does not mean scholars with grey hair and walking sticks, but anyone over 21. It is now one of the most diverse in the university with over half the home student body coming from abroad, with men and women from over 60 nationalities represented. At foundation it had just four students, currently there are 350 postgraduates and 140 mature undergraduates. Many are second-time learners who have decided to return to full-time education after a break. There are more men than women attending with the vast majority of students coming from state schools. On site are six maisonettes that provide housing for students with families.
Hidden in quiet woodland
The college is situated by a clutch of the newer establishments north west of the city centre, about a 5-minute bike ride away. Close neighbours include Murray Edwards, Fitzwilliam, Lucy Cavendish and Churchill. The buildings are set in quiet woodland, hidden away from the general hustle and bustle of a busy city but within easy walking distance of the main University Library, law, science and veterinary facilities. Students and fellows are encouraged to mix freely at both social and formal events – there is no ‘high table’ segregation at mealtimes and one common room for all. The college chapel reflects its Catholic roots but welcomes students of all and no faiths for thought and meditation. The Von Hügel Institute was founded within the co...

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...llowing a bequest from Dr Shoichi Okinaga.
Various architects have gone to great lengths to retain the non-institutional character and scale of the site, referencing the existing Victorian brick building stock and its details. Crisp modern interpretations with large glassed stairwells and towers blend together in a coherent whole. From 1999 to 2007 the college effectively doubled in size.
This careful planning and commitment was rewarded with full college status in 1996 and today St Edmund’s still exhibits the same drive with ambitious building projects to ensure a productive future.
The extensive grounds and mature intake make for a calm and cordial atmosphere. The enthusiastic executive committee runs all sorts of lively events and provides a cosy bar and pool table. The music room houses an impressive Broadway grand piano, and the sports teams often supply Blues.

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