City of Leeds Training College

City of Leeds Training College is a school of pedagogy in Leeds occupying multiple buildings at Beckett Park, including Grade II listed main structures in red brick with gritstone details. The campus includes various teaching and residential buildings that document the long history of teacher training at this site.

The institution was founded in 1907 from the Leeds Pupil Teacher College and became a military hospital during World War I before resuming teaching functions. After returning to education, it underwent several transformations until merging with Leeds Polytechnic in 1976.

The college kept separate teaching spaces for men and women until 1933, reflecting educational practices of early twentieth-century Britain. This division was common in British teacher training institutions of that era.

The various buildings on campus are spaced along footpaths and the terrain is relatively flat, making movement between structures straightforward. It helps to obtain a map before visiting to navigate the expansive grounds.

The campus incorporates Kirkstall Grange, a Grade II listed building from 1752 that originally served as initial accommodation for teacher training students. This historic dwelling demonstrates how early teacher training programs adapted existing structures for their new functions.

Inception: 1907

GPS coordinates: 53.82700,-1.59300

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:27