History
History of the site
Oaklands has a proud heritage of providing responsive, transformational education. We opened our doors to men and women in 1921. Since then, we have provided our students with the knowledge and skills to achieve their individual ambitions and make a valuable contribution to their communities.
Oaklands College has now been providing transformation education for 100 years and looks back with enormous pride at what has been achieved for and with our students, staff and the many employers, community members and stakeholders we serve. Famous faces throughout the years include Alan Titchmarsh, Alex Scott and Lewis Hamilton, growing our facilities will help cater to the future talent that attends the college and nurture them to similar success.
Timeline
History of Oaklands
1400 – 1500s
The abbot of St Albans granted to Richard Slape land called Cokains Croft and 3 acres of land lying in Threhousfeld formerly held by John atte Hale in 1414. The deed for the Tithes of Hay for the Manor of Park was transferred to Anthony Denny in which ‘Thread. Husses’ has been identified as a version of Three Houses.
1600-1700s
Disputes over land ownership between what appear to be two brothers, Hugh and Ralph Smyth, took place. Ownership was eventually grated to Ralph. Sources available suggest that the Mansion House we see now was built around 1782 but there is not a great deal of information to confirm this date.
1800-1900s
Extensive alterations and additions, including the clock house wing, were made in the Victorian era. The house ceased to be a private residential dwelling in 1920 whereafter it was bought by Hertfordshire County Council to be used as an educational establishment.
1920s: Establishment of the Agricultural College
The site was originally developed as an agricultural College to serve the local farming community, offering education in traditional farming methods and rural sciences.
1930s–1940s: Growth and Adaptation
The college expanded its facilities and adapted its curriculum to meet the challenges of a changing agricultural sector, including mechanisation and new farming techniques and during WWII, the College trained women for the Land Army.
Post-World War II (1940s–1950s): Diversification
After World War II, the site saw increased enrolment and began offering a broader range of vocational courses, reflecting the needs of a modernising Britain.
1960s: Campus Expansion
Significant building projects took place, adding lecture halls, workshops, and student accommodation to support the growing student body and expanded course offerings.
1970-1980s: Merging with other Institutions & development of new facilities
Oaklands integrated with other regional educational institutions, broadening its curriculum to include non-agricultural vocational training, such as construction and engineering and the addition of modern facilities for computing and hospitality training, making it a diverse educational hub.
1990-2000s: Focus on Further Education
Oaklands College focused on preparing students for higher education and employment with tailored vocational courses. Investments were made in new sports facilities, classrooms, and technology labs, positioning the College as a leader in vocational training and lifelong learning.
2010s: Community and Business Partnerships
The site became a focal point for community events and partnered with local businesses to deliver apprenticeships and workforce development programmes.
2020s: Continued Evolution and Sustainability
Oaklands College has focused on sustainability, introducing green initiatives, while continuing to upgrade facilities to meet the demands of digital and technological advancements. Oaklands now supports over 7,000 students annually across three Hertfordshire campuses, offering a broad curriculum, including vocational training, apprenticeships, higher education, and SEND programmes. Our nationally renowned sports academies and centres of excellence in fields like creative industries, engineering, construction and provision for students with profound high needs make us a leader in education.