THE University of Winchester has unveiled an illustrated book charting its history, published as part of its 175th anniversary celebrations.

The University of Winchester: 175 Years of Values-Driven Higher Education – written by Tom Beaumont James, Professor Emeritus in archaeology and history at the university – is the fullest compendium of the institution’s past and present.

“From humble beginnings, the University of Winchester has blossomed into a world-leading institution committed to championing inclusive, values-driven education in the 21st Century,” said Professor Joy Carter, vice-chancellor at the university.

“We pride ourselves on offering excellent teaching as demonstrated by our positioning as 10th for teaching excellence in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2016, which is grounded in the principles of freedom, justice, truth, human rights and collective effort for the common good.”

The University of Winchester has come a long way since its inception in 1840 as the Winchester Diocesan Training School. Professor James’ book documents the early days as a Church of England teacher training college to the university it is today.

“It has been fascinating to follow the institution’s growth and development over its 175-year history – a story of powerful personalities and a successful fight for survival,” explained the author.

“It has expanded to become an international community of staff and students with a broad portfolio of courses, research and scholarships. The visual essay which opens the book focuses on the development of modern facilities on campus, showing how the university takes pride in combining the old and new.”

The Bishop of Winchester’s palace at Wolvesey was among a number of sites occupied by the institution as it migrated around the city for over 20 years. The purpose-built Gothic ‘True-Christian Architecture’ Main Building of 1862, in late-14th Century style, remains at the heart of the university today.

The Winchester Training College became King Alfred’s College in 1928 and the University of Winchester in 2005.

The book is available to buy at winchester.ac.uk.