Green Templeton College (or GTC) is a constituent college of the University of Oxford located on Woodstock Road next to the Observatory. The college’s building dates back to the 18th century and is modelled on the ancient Tower of the Winds in Athens. This iconic structure serves not only as a symbol of the college’s rich heritage but also as a reminder of Oxford’s long-standing commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and scientific inquiry.
Green Templeton College is one of the university’s newest graduate colleges, having been established in 2008 through the merger of Green College and Templeton College. Despite its relatively recent foundation, the college has quickly become known for its strong focus on research and scholarship, particularly in fields related to medicine, the social sciences, and business. The college provides a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment for its diverse community of graduate students, fellows, and researchers from around the world.
The History of Green Templeton College
Green Templeton College is the product of a significant merger between two relatively young but individually distinguished colleges at the University of Oxford: Green College and Templeton College. The formal announcement of the merger came in 2007, and the newly formed Green Templeton College officially came into existence in 2008.
Green College was originally established in 1979 with a specific mission to cater to graduate students pursuing studies in medicine and related fields. It was founded by Sir Richard Doll, a pioneering epidemiologist whose work on the link between smoking and lung cancer was groundbreaking. Green College quickly became known for its strong emphasis on medical sciences, public health, and other health-related disciplines, attracting students and researchers who were passionate about advancing knowledge in these critical areas.
Templeton College, on the other hand, was founded earlier, in 1965, as the Oxford Centre for Management Studies. It was later renamed Templeton College in honour of Sir John Templeton, a successful investor and philanthropist who was a major benefactor of the college. Templeton College specialises in the study of management and business, providing high-quality education and training for future leaders in these fields. It became a hub for research and teaching in management studies, contributing significantly to the development of business education at Oxford.
When Green College and Templeton College merged to form Green Templeton College, they brought together their respective strengths in medicine, management, and social sciences, creating a multidisciplinary institution that continues to build on these foundations.
Green Templeton College Buildings
Green Templeton College, located in Oxford, is home to several interesting and historically significant buildings that contribute to its unique character.
Radcliffe Observatory
The Radcliffe Observatory is the centrepiece of Green Templeton College and one of the most iconic buildings in Oxford. Built between 1772 and 1794, it served as an astronomical observatory for the University of Oxford. Its design was inspired by the ancient Tower of the Winds in Athens, making it a prime example of neoclassical architecture. The observatory was named after Dr. John Radcliffe, a prominent physician whose endowment funded its construction. Today, it serves as the administrative heart of Green Templeton College and symbolizes the college’s commitment to both historical preservation and academic excellence.
The Radcliffe Observatory
The Radcliffe Observatory was originally built in the 18th century and is one of the finest examples of neoclassical architecture in Oxford.
The Stables Building
The Arlosh Hall
Named after Norman Arlosh, a benefactor of Green College, Arlosh Hall is a significant part of the college’s history. It serves as a central gathering space for various college events, lectures, and formal dinners. The hall was originally part of Green College before the merger and continues to play an important role in the social and academic life of Green Templeton College.
The Observatory Tower
Part of the original Radcliffe Observatory complex, the Observatory Tower is another historic structure within the college grounds. It was once used for astronomical observations but has since been repurposed for college use. The tower is a reminder of the scientific legacy of the observatory and the role it played in the advancement of astronomy.
The Observatory Tower
The Observatory Tower is a prominent and historically significant part of the Radcliffe Observatory complex at Green Templeton College.
Originally used as stables, this building has been repurposed and now serves as a unique part of the college’s infrastructure. The Stables Building is an example of how the college has adapted historic structures for modern use, blending the old with the new.
Where is Green Templeton College?
The coat of arms serves as a visual representation of Green Templeton College’s identity, blending the heritage and values of its predecessor institutions while embracing a dynamic and inclusive future.
Green Templeton College is located on Woodstock Road (OX2 6HG), Oxford. Tel 01865 274770.
Can you Visit Green Templeton College?
Yes, Green Templeton College is open to the public by appointment only. Maximum 20 people in a group.
