As Strode College in Street prepares for a historic merger with Bridgwater & Taunton College, it marks the close of an era for an institution with deep roots in Somerset. Originally founded in 1899 as Street Technical School with strong support from the Clark family of Clarks Shoes, the college has evolved through multiple phases to meet the community's changing needs.

The Foundation: Education and the Clark Family

The Clarks' early commitment to education saw them open a reading room in their factory, which by 1871 hosted evening art classes. In 1891, these classes were opened up to residents of Street and nearby Walton, leading to exams for community members. This growth prompted the establishment of Street Technical School in 1899. Funded by William Stephen Clark, purpose-built premises opened in 1900 on Leigh Road, designed by William Reynolds in a late Tudor style.

Now known as Strode House, this building was home to Street Technical School.

The initial two-storey building featured a large lecture room, a carpenter's workshop, and a caretaker's cottage. Early courses included French, arithmetic, physiology, lacemaking, beekeeping, carving, and shorthand, reflecting both practical and cultural learning. By the 1930s, the school continued to expand, adding classes in a variety of subjects from automotive skills (though unsuccessful) to German and shoemaking during WWII. By 1936, enrolment had surged to 399 students, some of whom attended for free as part of the army training corps during wartime​.

Street Technical School: Expanding Education

Throughout the mid-20th century, Street Technical School became a local educational hub, eventually offering over 25 courses, including veterinary and horticultural studies by 1953. With the town's population growing and the government preparing to raise the school-leaving age to 16, demand exceeded the capacity of the Leigh Road building. Consequently, in 1963, a new, larger Street Technical College opened on Church Road. At its inception, only one building, A Block, was completed, but the college expanded over time to accommodate its growing student body.

The technical school, having transitioned to a college, officially adopted the name "Strode College" in 1973, a tribute to William Strode, a 17th-century benefactor responsible for local landmarks and educational endowments. The college's commitment to sixth-form education grew during this time, and it also began to offer adult literacy and nonvocational classes. By the late 1970s, the college served over 300 full- and part-time students​

Day Continuation School and the Technical School's Growth

In 1913, Street Technical School added a woodwork class for 13 boys, which soon evolved into Street's day continuation school. Officially formed in 1914 on Leigh Road, the school was designed to provide local youth, many from Clarks' factory, with 22 hours of weekly training in practical skills like woodwork, dressmaking, and housewifery. By 1925, the school expanded with a new block featuring classrooms and a house for the headmistress. This facility not only educated students from 14 to 16 but also offered technical classes for advanced students from other schools in Street. The day continuation school eventually closed in 1962, and students transferred to the new technical college on Church Road, marking a shift toward full-time further education​.

Mr W J Ballard (centre), head teacher of Street Technical College in 1963

University-Level Education and the Community's Needs

With the establishment of Strode College, Somerset's residents gained access to advanced academic and vocational training locally. The college became one of the few institutions in the county to offer university-level education, with degrees in areas like History, Archaeology, and Psychology available through partnerships with universities like the University of Plymouth. This ability to study at a higher level without leaving the area has been invaluable to the community, allowing students to pursue advanced qualifications close to home​.

Strode College through the ages

The Potential Merger: Closing a Chapter

Strode College's proposed merger with Bridgwater & Taunton College aims to pool resources, address financial challenges, and ensure long-term viability. While this represents a new chapter for Strode, the college's history remains a testament to its adaptability and enduring role in the community. Even with the merger, Strode Theatre—a vital part of Strode's campus and a beloved local venue—will continue its programming, as confirmed by college representatives. The merger reflects a strategic shift but underscores Strode College's ongoing commitment to education and community involvement.

From its beginnings with the Clark family's support to its transformation into a modern further education provider, Strode College's journey is one of resilience and community focus. As the college moves forward, its legacy in Somerset remains steadfast, honouring a history of educational access, growth, and adaptation.

The Potential Merger: An End of an Era?

Now, Strode College is set to merge with Bridgwater & Taunton College (BTC) as part of a strategic response to financial challenges, which include a recent government audit revealing subcontracting issues that led to significant financial adjustments. The proposed merger, recommended to secure the college's long-term sustainability, would allow for greater resource-sharing and expanded course offerings. However, it also signifies a potential end to Strode's independent era as a community-centred institution. Dr. John Revill, Strode's current principal, sees this merger as an opportunity to enhance educational resources while preserving the college's legacy.

Strode Theatre: Business as Usual

One aspect of Strode College that will remain unchanged is Strode Theatre. "It's business as usual," confirmed Tanya Schottlander, Director of Student Experience, Marketing, and Communication. Strode Theatre, renowned for its diverse programming of performances, films, and community events, will continue to operate independently, underscoring the college's commitment to supporting arts and culture in Somerset.

Looking Ahead

Strode College's journey from Street Technical School to a modern tertiary institution reflects over a century of educational evolution shaped by the needs of Somerset's communities. Whether through technical training, sixth-form education, or university-level degrees, Strode has maintained a dedication to accessible, local education. As the college prepares for a new phase, its roots in community-focused education and the legacy of its founders—the Clark family and William Strode—will continue to guide its mission.