History students uncover University’s past through Archive research at Chester Festival of Ideas

Second-year History students Rosie-Jo Cowden and Jonathan Rugman presented findings from their work on the experiential learning module Curious Chester during the Festival, using archive objects to explore key moments in the University’s 187-year history. 

As part of the module, students selected items from the University Archive and investigated their historical significance. Rosie-Jo focused on two objects that highlighted different aspects of student life and teacher education: The Collegian magazine, first published in 1886, and records relating to Padgate College of Education, which later became the University’s Warrington campus. 

Jonathan, from Leicester, examined a sermon delivered by Canon James Slade, Vicar of Bolton and one of the University’s six founders, at Chester Cathedral in 1842. The sermon commemorated the opening of the College’s Exton Park site. He also explored a more recent chapter of the University’s history by interviewing a former student about her teacher-training experiences in the 1970s, drawing on notes she had previously donated to the Archive. 

Jonathan said: “I really enjoyed researching Canon Slade and his 1842 sermon as I was able to put it into the context of educational reforms at the time, in particular the role of the Church of England as it campaigned to keep education under its control and not cede it to the state.” 

The students’ research formed part of a wider presentation on the history of the University told through 15 archive objects, delivered at the Chester Festival of Ideas. 

The project highlights the opportunities available to University of Chester students to engage with original archive materials, develop research and presentation skills, and contribute to a deeper understanding of the institution’s long and varied history. 

Lisa Peters, Academic Services Officer and Amy Hultum, Alumni Assistant presented the talk on behalf of the University and praised the students’ contributions. 

Lisa said: “We were thrilled that both Rosie and Jonathan were able to speak about their research at the Festival of Ideas and demonstrate some of the skills they had gained as a result of the Curious Chester module.” 

Amy added: "It was lovely to see so many people attend the talk and engage with the work of Rosie and Jonathan."