The Brighton College Archive

bc archive 01a

The records held by Brighton College Archive reflect our school's unique history. In an atmosphere that focuses on individual achievements, academic excellence and innovation, material is collected that will support our pupils' love of learning. The archive also offers a rich resource for Old Brightonians, researchers and genealogists.

The Brighton College Archive comprises:

  • Records of the College; This includes records relating to staff, governors and trustees; deeds and legal papers; financial records; plans; school magazines; records relating to pupils, including registers, photographs and work.
  • Personal papers; Belonging to Old Brightonians (pupils and staff).
  • Artwork; A selection of prints and paintings of the College, as well artwork produced by past pupils and staff.
  • Heritage Collections; Alongside this archival material, we also hold a small heritage collection, which includes rare books and artefacts.
  • The Brightonian; The Brightonian magazine has been digitised and is available here.

Research and enquiries:
Archive material can be accessed in the reading room at the College, by appointment only. If you would like to make an appointment, or have an enquiry, please get in touch with the school's archivist, James Harrison.

Donations:
If you think you have material that could be added to our collections, we always welcome donations. For further information, please see refer to our Donation Pack.

26 April 2021

As part of our commemoration of the 175th anniversary of Brighton College, we are launching a series of profiles on our past Head Masters, with a piece on every former Head Master since the Second World War. We begin with Arthur Stuart-Clark, who assumed the Headmastership in September 1944, a year before the end of the Second World War.

26 March 2021

We're delighted to share 175 years of history through the Brighton College Timeline. 

26 March 2019

Over the past year, one of our archival volunteers has been meticulously appraising, cataloguing, and rehousing our large archival collection of drama and music records.

03 November 2017

Almost two years ago, Hew Prendergast emailed the College about his ancestor, Sir Harry North Dalrymple Prendergast (BC 1849-50). We were thrilled to hear from a descendent of such an illustrious OB, and invited Hew to speak to our 4th Form. Much to their delight, Hew brought along one of Sir Harry’s swords. It was fascinating to see an object with such an exciting story; an object which also prompted me to learn more about the sword that had once been kept in the College’s chapel, above Sir Harry’s plaque.

29 September 2017

Over the years, we’ve had many exciting events at Brighton College – several of which are documented in the archive. Out of these, one really stands out. I would even go as far as to say it is mentioned at least once a week, usually by an Old Brightonian. This event is the Queen’s visit in 1962.

14 August 2017

An Old Brightonian's return to visit the College can be a daunting experience when faced with the extraordinary changes and developments that may have taken place since they left the place. Most of the College is of course largely untouched and instantly recognisable, but some parts will be completely new to most of you.

Contact Us

Brighton College

Eastern Road

Brighton, BN2 0AL

ob@oldbrightonians.com

+44 (0) 1273 704 250

Registered charity number: 307061