Hartpury College is a specialist further education college located on a large, integrated campus alongside Hartpury University. It provides A-levels and vocational diplomas primarily focused on land-based, animal, equine, and sports studies. It's situated on an expansive 360-hectare rural campus in Hartpury, Gloucestershire (GL19 3BE), in the South West of England, approximately 4 miles north of the city of Gloucester.
Established in 1948 as an agricultural college with just 50 students. It has grown significantly since then, developing its specialist areas and establishing Hartpury University alongside the College provision. Hartpury College is renowned for its focus on Agriculture, Animal Management & Science, Equine Studies & Management, Sports Coaching & Performance, and Veterinary Nursing. It also offers A-levels in subjects including Biology, Business, English, Geography, Law, Maths, PE, Psychology, and others.
The College is officially rated Ofsted 'Outstanding' in all areas, including its residential provision (inspected Nov 2024, report published Jan 2025). It is recognised as one of the UK's leading specialist colleges in its subject areas, known for excellent facilities and strong industry links. The College caters to over 2,000 students studying A-levels and diplomas, contributing to a total campus population (including university students) of over 4,600.
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Hartpury College is a specialist further education college located on a large, integrated campus alongside Hartpury University. It provides A-levels and vocational diplomas primarily focused on land-based, animal, equine, and sports studies. It's situated on an expansive 360-hectare rural campus in Hartpury, Gloucestershire (GL19 3BE), in the South West of England, approximately 4 miles north of the city of Gloucester.
Established in 1948 as an agricultural college with just 50 students. It has grown significantly since then, developing its specialist areas and establishing Hartpury University alongside the College provision. Hartpury College is renowned for its focus on Agriculture, Animal Management & Science, Equine Studies & Management, Sports Coaching & Performance, and Veterinary Nursing. It also offers A-levels in subjects including Biology, Business, English, Geography, Law, Maths, PE, Psychology, and others.
The College is officially rated Ofsted 'Outstanding' in all areas, including its residential provision (inspected Nov 2024, report published Jan 2025). It is recognised as one of the UK's leading specialist colleges in its subject areas, known for excellent facilities and strong industry links. The College caters to over 2,000 students studying A-levels and diplomas, contributing to a total campus population (including university students) of over 4,600.
Campus Environment: Student life is centred around the large, specialist rural campus. This provides a unique, immersive experience, particularly for those interested in the land-based, animal, or sports subjects, with facilities integrated into the learning environment.
Facilities: Students have access to exceptional facilities relevant to their studies, including:
One of the world's largest equine educational establishments with multiple indoor and outdoor arenas, stabling, and therapy centres.
A fully working commercial farm (dairy, beef, sheep, arable land) incorporating agri-tech innovations.
An extensive animal collection and animal science laboratories.
Elite sports facilities including numerous pitches (grass and artificial), gyms, sports halls, a rehabilitation suite, human performance labs, and an altitude chamber.
Students' Union (SU): Hartpury SU represents both college and university students. It organises social events (including the large Summer Ball), supports clubs and societies, and provides student representation. Students automatically become members upon enrolment.
Clubs and Societies: Reflect the specialist nature of Hartpury, with examples including the Agricultural Society, Equestrian Society, Polo Club, Clay Shooting Club, Hockey, Wildlife Society, as well as general interest groups like the Christian Union and LGBTQ+ Society.
Sport: Sport is a major part of Hartpury life. Students can participate in recreational sport ('Hartpury Active') or join the highly successful competitive Sports Academies. These offer elite coaching and development pathways in Men's & Women's Rugby, Men's & Women's Football, Equine, Rowing, Netball, Golf, and an Athlete Performance Academy for other sports.
Support Services: Hartpury provides comprehensive support, including academic support, wellbeing services (counselling, mental health support), careers advice, learning support for disabilities, and a free, confidential Student Assistance Programme (Wisdom/Health Assured) offering 24/7 advice on various issues (personal, legal, financial).
On-Campus Halls of Residence: This is the primary and often preferred option for Hartpury College students, especially those under 18 or moving away from home for the first time. The campus offers extensive, well-regarded (Ofsted 'Outstanding' residential provision) accommodation:
Specific College Halls: Include Rudgeley Halls (single en-suite for U18s), Dingle Halls (twin en-suite for U18s), Catsbury Hall (twin rooms, shared washrooms), and New Vicarage Halls (single en-suite for U18/O18s).
Features: Rooms typically include utility bills and Wi-Fi. College accommodation often includes a partial catering plan (e.g., breakfast and some main meals). Dedicated residential support staff ensure welfare and safety, particularly for younger students.
Off-Campus Living: Requires commuting.
Gloucester: The nearest city offers the most options for private rentals (shared houses, flats) or potentially private student halls (PBSA). Commuting is necessary via shuttle bus, public bus, or car (approx. 15-30 mins depending on traffic and mode).
Cheltenham: Provides more rental options and amenities but involves a longer commute, usually via Gloucester.
Local Villages: Renting in villages very close to Hartpury might be possible but options are typically limited and may require personal transport.
Gloucester: Explore the historic Gloucester Cathedral, the revitalised Gloucester Docks (with museums, shops, eateries at Gloucester Quays), catch a rugby match at Kingsholm Stadium, or walk up Robinswood Hill.
Cheltenham: Visit this elegant Regency spa town for its architecture, shopping, parks (Pittville Park), and famous Cheltenham Racecourse. It's also known for its numerous festivals (Literature, Science, Music, Jazz).
The Cotswolds: This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is easily accessible, offering charming villages (like Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, Painswick), scenic walks, and traditional pubs.
Forest of Dean: West of Gloucester, providing opportunities for walking, cycling, canoeing on the River Wye, and exploring unique attractions like Puzzlewood.
Malvern Hills: Offers stunning views and excellent hillwalking trails to the north-west.
Market Towns: Discover nearby towns such as Tewkesbury (with its impressive Abbey) and Ledbury (known for its black-and-white timbered buildings).
On-Campus Events: Don't miss the major international equine competitions hosted at Hartpury throughout the year.
Bus Services: Several options cater to the rural location:
Hartpury Shuttle Bus: Runs regularly between the campus and Gloucester city centre (stops include train/bus station). Operates weekdays (approx. every 45-60 mins, managed by Zeelo - requires booking/payment) and weekends (less frequent, free Hartpury service).
Public Bus (Stagecoach #351): Connects Gloucester and Tewkesbury, stopping on the main road (A417) outside the campus entrance (Mon-Sat).
Home-to-College Buses: Dedicated routes managed via Zeelo cover various local towns/villages for daily commuting college students (requires annual booking).
Driving/Parking: Driving to campus is common. Ample parking is available but requires vehicle registration. Residential students get permits for specific areas near halls.
Cycling: Possible for local commutes; secure bike storage is provided on campus.
Taxis: Local firms operate, with some offering student discounts (e.g., Andy Cars Gloucester). Ride-sharing apps may also be available.