Shuttleworth College

Shuttleworth College in Central Bedfordshire is now part of Beacon Status and outstanding Ofsted winner, Bedford College.

The land-based college in Old Warden, near Biggleswade, will benefit from the award-winning management of Bedford College - whilst maintaining its educational specialisms.

The deal was finalised on Friday 7 August.

An award-winning team

Staff and students at Shuttleworth have been assured that there will be the minimum of disruption to their work and already Bedford College has been working to ensure their new colleagues and students feel part of the award-winning team.

“Our priority has always been about people - our students and our staff, this will be no different at Shuttleworth,” explained Principal and Chief Executive Ian Pryce.

“This is a very exciting project, one of the most important since Bedford College became independent in 1993.  

“Shuttleworth has grown very fast in the last four years.  Its location means we will have a strong physical presence within the newly created Central Bedfordshire unitary authority demonstrating our commitment to the wider community. Already 30% of Bedford College students come from within Central Bedfordshire."

'Interesting challenges'

“It also presents some interesting challenges.  For instance, in addition to the educational provision, Shuttleworth runs events, weddings and hospitality at the site which will be a new challenge and one which are looking forward to meeting. 

“Our balance sheet now includes a wallaby, horse and snake collection as well as buildings and contents.”