Post-war review of teacher training lead to the instigation of Lancaster College of Education 1962. The first intake of 89 students (supported by 13 staff) was in 1964.
The King’s Own Royal Regiment had vacated the barracks in the previous decade and the site was purchased by the Church of England. Former armouries, barracks houses and other military buildings were converted and others demolished to be replaced by new buildings designed by Charles Pike.
From the start the College planned to teach degrees as well as Certificates of Education and pioneered the four year BA Hons with QTS. By 1966 the College was teaching PGCE students.
As nursing developed as a graduate profession the College developed courses in nursing and later radiography, occupational health, social work and continuing professional development courses for health professionals. Strong relationships were forged with NHS trust training departments. This can be seen in the local hospital trusts where many health professionals can be seen proudly wearing both St Martin’s and University of Cumbria badges on their uniforms.
The College developed courses in humanities, arts, sport and a mini building boom ensued in the late 1990s with the development of the Sports Centre, Humanities building, Hugh Pollard Lecture Theatre and new accommodation.
In the late 1990s St Martin's took over the management of Charlotte Mason College in Ambleside. The London campuses followed, strengthening the emphasis on teaching.
