Plumpton College Celebrates 100 Years of Excellence in Land & Environment Education

Plumpton College celebrates its proud history whilst looking towards an exciting future as it announces a varied programme of Centenary Celebrations to mark 100 years of land and environment education. From modest beginnings in 1926 with just 17 students, the Sussex based college has grown into one of the country’s leading, award-winning institutions for land-based education and training — shaping thousands of careers and contributing significantly to the rural economy. 

Today, the College spans an 800-hectare estate in the heart of the South Downs National Park, delivering 19 diverse subject areas ranging from agriculture, viticulture and environmental conservation to animal and veterinary studies, equine management and metalsmithing — with education offered from age 14 through to postgraduate master’s level.

Jeremy Kerswell, Principal of Plumpton College, says:

Plumpton has always been able to respond to the needs of its community — from hosting and training the Women’s Land Army during the war effort to driving forward the development of the UK’s flourishing wine industry through our nationally renowned viticulture provision. 

Our Centenary programme will reflect on the past, celebrate the present and inspire for the future.  As part of this, we are inviting the Plumpton College community to join us in sharing what Plumpton means, or has meant to them over the years. 

This milestone is not just a celebration of the past, but a pivotal moment in Plumpton’s future. As we reflect on a century of progress we remain steadfast in our mission to address the environmental and agricultural challenges of the next 100 years - setting our sights firmly on the next century: to equip students with the expertise, adaptability, and innovation the world needs.

Share Your Plumpton Story

As part of Plumpton’s Centenary Celebrations, the College is calling on alumni, staff (past and present), and the wider community to share their stories, memories, and experiences of Plumpton College. Whether you were a student, member of staff, or partnered on an initiative — your story is part of their legacy.
 

These submissions will help Plumpton to build a collective history and will be featured in their Centenary Story Archive, digital platforms, and celebratory events throughout the year.

👉  Submit your stories, photos, or reflections here

Centenary Celebrations - celebrate with Plumpton College

Throughout the Centenary year, Plumpton College will host a programme of special events, exhibitions, alumni reunions, and industry partnerships to honour their heritage and showcase their ambitions for the future. Confirmed events include:

March 2026 - The Plumpton Centenary 11km Trail Race
Celebrating the College’s proud history while raising vital funds to support students in the century ahead. Starting from Plumpton Bostal, while enjoying the Sussex Downland.
 

April 2026 – Centenary Exhibition

A special showcase of 100 years of Plumpton College history, capturing the stories, innovations, and people who have shaped their journey.

May 2026 – Open Day & Spring Fair 2026 

Plumpton’s much-loved annual open day – bigger and better than ever – bringing together the community, partners, and future students.

June 2026 – Charity Foundation Centenary Ball

A unique evening to celebrate in style with Plumpton’s local community and alumni, while supporting the future of land-based education.
 

September 2026 – Hurstpierpoint Ploughing Match

A proud annual tradition that showcases the enduring skills and passion that keep the land and environment sector thriving.

October 2026 - Founders Day
A day to celebrate the founding of Plumpton College on 18th October 1926 with current students and staff. A mixture of events, activities and photo moments throughout the day. 

For further event information, tickets and bookings on all of Plumpton College’s Centenary Celebrations, please visit our dedicated area 

Celebrating 100 years  

Category: College News