The History of our Campuses

Orbital South Colleges* comprising East Surrey College, John Ruskin College and Reigate of School of Art is a leading Further Education College group, trusted by schools and employers across Surrey, West Sussex and south London.

*Orbital South Colleges is the trading name for the East Surrey College Corporation.

History of the Colleges

East Surrey College boasts a rich history, with its roots tracing back to the late 19th century. It began with the inception of two distinct institutions, each contributing to the foundation and evolution of the college we know today.

The journey started in Redhill in 1894, when the first technical education classes were offered. By April 1895, the cornerstone for the Redhill Technical Institute was laid. This was a significant milestone marked by the construction of premises designed by the local architectural firm Baker and Penfold. The institute officially opened its doors in December of the same year. Over the decades, the college expanded and in 1969, it began transitioning most of its activities to Gatton Point on London Road. This was a site formerly occupied by The Hawthorns School. The original Redstone Hill location served as an annex until 1989, after which it was demolished in 1990 following the relocation of courses to a new site.

Meanwhile, the Reigate School of Art began in 1882, evolving from a series of science and arts classes held in the town public hall. The school moved to the Redhill Technical Institute in 1895 and later to Blackborough Road, Reigate, in 1939.

In 1983, these two institutions merged to form East Surrey College, combining their strengths in technical education and the arts. The college gained independence from Surrey County Council in 1992, marking a new era of autonomy and growth. A significant milestone in its development was a £43 million campus redevelopment project which concluded in May 2010. This was followed by the opening a new recording studio, spa and hair salon at the college in November of the following year.

Further expanding its horizons, East Surrey College merged with John Ruskin College in South Croydon in February 2019, leading to the formation of Orbital South Colleges. This merger signifies a continued commitment to providing comprehensive and diverse educational opportunities to the community.

Find out more about the East Surrey College facilities at Gatton Point North and the original building Gatton Point South.

East Surrey College’s storied history is complemented by the equally rich legacy of John Ruskin College, forming a vital part of the Orbital South Colleges group today. Learn more about John Ruskin College