Changing Barnsley

Changing Barnsley

looks at how Barnsley has evolved, through the eyes of the former Mining and Technical College on Church Street, which now hosts Barnsley's very own University. Covering the 75 years of its existence, it tracks the period from 1932, when the building was first built, until 2007, when the University was fully up and running.

History of the Building

Built along the northern side of the Town Hall in 1932, on Church Street, the Building which now houses Barnsley's very own University has been at the centre of education in Barnsley since its construction.

Origins as a Mining College

As the mining industry became more regulated and professional, the building originally started life as a mining college, training and equipping Barnsley's workforce with the necessary skills to work in the coal industry.

Transition to a Technical College

With the demise of coalmining and the broadening of Barnsley's industries, it became a technical college, focussing on a more general education.

Modern Regeneration and University Conversion

Now as the industrial heritage has faded and the regeneration of Barnsley has been implemented, the conversion of the building into a University, to provide Higher Education to Barnsley is an important step in raising aspirations and equipping Barnsley with the skills for the future.

Historical Significance

This books tells the history of this building, the people that have used it and the skills they have gained.