The School of Design at the University of Leeds is celebrating 150 years of legacy this year, marking a significant milestone in its rich history. Established in 1874, the school traces its roots back to the mid-nineteenth century when the textile industry was at the heart of Leeds’ economy, employing two-fifths of the city’s population. Amid growing concerns about European technological advancements threatening local industries, the Nussey family, prominent Leeds woollen manufacturers, recognised the need for scientific training to remain competitive. Their proposal for an educational programme for cloth workers, supported by The Clothworkers’ Company, led to the creation of The Department of Textile Industries at the new Yorkshire College of Science. This initiative laid the foundation for what would eventually become the School of Design. 

As the School of Design celebrates this milestone, it embraces a forward-looking vision with the Professional Academy for Creative Enterprise (PACE) launch. PACE reflects the school’s enduring commitment to industry collaboration and educational excellence. PACE is a key element of the School of Design’s forward-looking vision, dedicated to advancing the skills and knowledge of professionals across various creative sectors. By offering research-based education, production, testing and consultancy services, PACE ensures that both individuals and organisations can develop the expertise necessary to succeed in an ever-evolving industry landscape.  

“We have a range of courses we are developing, not just courses on-site that bring people into our state-of-the-art facilities, but also online courses that are more accessible and can be reached by anyone around the world.”   

Professor Maria Londsdale

Director of PACE

This global outreach is designed to ensure that PACE’s educational offerings are not limited by geography, enabling professionals from across the globe to benefit from the school’s cutting-edge resources and expertise. PACE is poised to play a central role in the next chapter of the School of Design’s evolution. Combining the latest academic research with practical, real-world industry expertise and supporting individuals and organisations to achieve their goals. Through its diverse programmes, PACE will continue the school’s tradition of offering practical solutions to the creative industry while nurturing the next generation of professionals.  

The School of Design’s forward-looking initiatives are focused on education and reinforcing the ongoing partnership between academia and industry. By embracing this blend of tradition and innovation, PACE will strive to ensure the School of Design remains a dynamic force in the creative industries for the next 150 years.  

To mark this landmark year, the school has also released a special video that reflects on its 150-year journey, paying tribute to its past while looking forward to an exciting future.