Pearson College London was established in 2012 by the global learning company Pearson plc. Its core idea was to bridge the gap between education and industry by having degrees designed and delivered in collaboration with major companies. In mid-2023, Pearson College London, including its well-known creative school Escape Studios, was acquired by AAP Education Limited (a partnership between private equity firm Sterling Partners and Coventry University). While the Pearson College London name might still appear, Escape Studios seems to be the primary brand, especially for creative courses.
Escape Studios is based in North Greenwich, London, within the Design District. (The original Pearson College London address was in High Holborn).
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Pearson College London was established in 2012 by the global learning company Pearson plc. Its core idea was to bridge the gap between education and industry by having degrees designed and delivered in collaboration with major companies. In mid-2023, Pearson College London, including its well-known creative school Escape Studios, was acquired by AAP Education Limited (a partnership between private equity firm Sterling Partners and Coventry University). While the Pearson College London name might still appear, Escape Studios seems to be the primary brand, especially for creative courses.
Escape Studios is based in North Greenwich, London, within the Design District. (The original Pearson College London address was in High Holborn).
The student experience is quite different from a traditional university, reflecting its industry focus and London location.
Campus Environment: Located in modern facilities in North Greenwich, the environment is more akin to a professional studio or creative workspace than a large, green campus. It's designed to be inspiring and reflect future workplaces.
Industry Integration: Student life is heavily interwoven with the creative industries. Expect guest lectures from professionals, industry workshops, mentorship opportunities, feedback on work from industry experts, and a strong emphasis on building a professional network and portfolio.
Community: It's likely a smaller, close-knit community compared to large universities, allowing for focused interaction with tutors (who often have industry backgrounds) and peers.
Student Representation/Activities: While it may not have a traditional large Students' Union building, student representation exists (the Pearson College Community Association - PCSA was mentioned previously). There are likely student-run clubs and societies, potentially focused on specific creative software, industry sectors, or social events relevant to the student body. Escape Studios organises events like taster days and webinars.
Accommodation: Being located in central London, Pearson College London / Escape Studios does not operate its own halls of residence. They provide guidance and resources to help students find private accommodation, such as shared houses/flats or rooms in private student halls across London.
Considering proximity to the Strand campus, affordability, safety, and transport links:
Bloomsbury:
Covent Garden:
Waterloo/South Bank:
Clerkenwell:
Elephant & Castle:
Being located on the Strand, Pearson College London students are surrounded by iconic landmarks, cultural attractions, and vibrant areas:
Covent Garden: Lively with street performers, shops, theatres, and the Royal Opera House, just a short walk away.
Trafalgar Square: Iconic square home to the National Gallery and Nelson's Column, a short walk west.
National Portrait Gallery: Houses a vast collection of portraits of famous British figures, overlooking Trafalgar Square.
Somerset House: A grand neoclassical building hosting art exhibitions, events, and a winter ice rink, directly adjacent to the Strand.
The West End: London's theatre district with numerous shows and performances within easy walking distance.
British Museum: A world-renowned museum housing a vast collection of art and artifacts, a short Tube ride away (Piccadilly Line from Covent Garden or Holborn).
National Gallery: Home to a significant collection of European paintings, located in Trafalgar Square.
South Bank: A vibrant cultural hub along the Thames with the Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe, and the National Theatre, a short walk across Waterloo Bridge.
Houses of Parliament & Big Ben (Westminster): Iconic symbols of London and UK governance, a short Tube or walk along the Embankment.
Westminster Abbey: Historic church where coronations and royal weddings take place, near the Houses of Parliament.
Student travel for Pearson College London students is exceptionally convenient due to its prime central London location.
Underground (Tube): Several major Tube stations are within a short walking distance of Pearson College London:
Buses: The Strand is a major bus corridor with numerous routes serving various parts of London. You'll find frequent bus services directly outside or very near the college.
Trains (National Rail): Charing Cross and Waterloo stations, both within walking distance, provide excellent National Rail connections to other parts of London and the UK.
Walking and Cycling: The central location makes walking to many other central London areas feasible. Cycling is also an option, and there are cycle routes in the vicinity.
Student Discounts: Eligible full-time students (18+) at Pearson College London can apply for the 18+ Student Oyster photocard. This provides 30% off adult-rate Travelcards and Bus & Tram Passes, making travel significantly more affordable. Application involves online registration via the TfL website, uploading a digital photo, and Pearson College London confirming enrollment electronically. A non-refundable fee applies, and the photocard is collected from a nominated Tube station.