Open House Festival 2026: Exploring the History of WM College 

On Saturday 12 September, we hosted a Talk and Tour as part of Open House Festival, giving visitors the chance to explore the history of WM College and discover more about the building and the people who shaped it.

Open House Festival takes place across London each September, allowing the public to explore the city’s hidden and historic buildings for free.

As the oldest surviving adult education institute in Europe, WM College has a fascinating history, with historic artefacts and items from the College’s past on display for visitors to explore during the talk.

The talk was led by Jo Luff, Head of Governance, who took us through the College’s history, sharing stories about the people who founded, supported and helped shape WM College into what it is today.

WM College traces its roots to John Frederick Denison Maurice, one of the founders of Christian Socialism, who set up a night school at 31 Red Lion Square in 1848 to provide skilled workers with a liberal education. After being dismissed from his post at King’s College in 1853 over his Christian Socialist views, Maurice went on to realise his vision fully. Plans were drawn up in January 1854, and the College opened in October that year.

Guests explored the people who founded, supported and helped shape WM College, and reflected on how their vision continues to support our community today, carrying forward the same mission the College was founded on in 1854.

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Following the talk, Tracey Gleeson, Head of Estates at the college, led a guided tour of the building, allowing visitors to explore its architecture and see how the College has evolved over time.

William Douglas Caroe was commissioned to design the WM College building. He was primarily known for church architecture and for the main building of Cardiff University. Over the years, the building has been adapted and extended to meet the changing needs of the college, with care taken to maintain and restore many of its original features. 

Be part of the history yourself 

Join our fantastic range of September courses and become part of the next chapter of WM College’s story. 

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WM College has helped adults change their lives through education since 1854. Your support through easyfundraising helps fund bursaries, wellbeing support and accessible learning for adults across Camden and London who need it most, at no extra cost to you.

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