Since its founding in 1973, Warnborough has become a respected name in higher education, encompassing a network of institutions including Warnborough College Oxford, Warnborough College UK, Warnborough College Ireland, and the Warnborough Foundation. Warnborough College UK offers a range of educational programs, both on-site in Canterbury, England, and through distance learning, while Warnborough College Ireland specializes in distance learning exclusively.
1973–1996: Oxford
Warnborough College was established in Oxford, England, in 1973 by Brenden Tempest-Mogg, a graduate research student at the University of Oxford, and his mother Ethyl. Although it was not affiliated with the University of Oxford, the college quickly gained recognition for its study abroad programmes, which primarily attracted American undergraduate and graduate students looking to spend an accredited semester or year abroad as part of their academic journey. Initially based on Warnborough Road in North Oxford, the college relocated in 1976 to the prestigious Boars Hill area, approximately four miles south of Oxford.
In 1985, Warnborough College successfully launched the Warnborough Australian Studies Programmes, providing opportunities for students to study in Sydney and Brisbane, Australia. A decade later, in 1995, the college welcomed its first group of international students into a four-year US academic program.
1997–2005: London, Ireland and Canterbury
In 1997, Warnborough University was established in Ireland, under the leadership of Dr Brenden Tempest-Mogg and Dr Kee Guan Ng. It had offices in Ireland and the United Kingdom. The university later moved its offices to Canterbury in 2001. Its ONLINE graduate and undergraduate degree programs are focused on liberal arts and professional studies, catering to a global audience.
Affiliations and Partnerships
Warnborough encourages partnerships around the world.
Campus and Facilities
From 1976 to 1996, Warnborough College Oxford was housed in the former facilities of Plater College, the Bishop’s palace of the Diocese of Oxford, and Yatscombe Hall, located on Boar’s Hill. These facilities served as the centre for teaching, administration, and student accommodation.
From 2006 to 2008, Warnborough College Ireland operated from offices at the former All Hallows College in Drumcondra, and thereafter from Dublin. Today, Warnborough College World Headquarters is based in Canterbury, Kent, UK
Following an inspection by the UK Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) in May 2012, the college achieved Tier 4 visa status. It is also recognized as an ASIC Premier College by the Accreditation Service for International Colleges.
Warnborough College Ireland operates from its office in Dublin and is accredited by the International Education Accreditation Council (IEAC) with a prestigious 5-star ranking. Its courses are internationally recognized, and the college has established numerous partnerships with overseas colleges and universities, and participates in Erasmus+ projects.
A Legacy of Achievement
Throughout its history, like many academic institutions, Warnborough has faced challenges, including instances of misinformation from a cabal of competitors. However, in 2023, the college proudly celebrated its 50th anniversary at Canterbury Cathedral’s International Studies Centre. The event featured speeches from dignitaries who praised Warnborough’s accomplishments over the past five decades. Additionally, the Warnborough Foundation CIO, a UK charity, has been widely commended for its efforts in providing scholarships and training to disadvantaged youths, reflecting the institution’s ongoing commitment to quality education and community service.