student life

10 things You Didn’t Know About Canterbury Christ Church University

Kettle Mag, Lorna Holland, Canterbury Christ Church, Student Life
Written by themaxdog

Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) started life as a Church of England teacher training college in 1962. Today CCCU has 20,000 students at 4 campuses across Kent. Here are 10 things you didn’t know about CCCU!  

1. An impressive graduation

CCCU students are lucky enough to be able to graduate in beautiful Canterbury Cathedral. Graduation is what every student is working towards, so what better way to end your student days than being surrounded by the stunning architecture and history of Canterbury Cathedral?

2. Shining bright

The sun from the Teletubbies

Jess Smith, the girl who used to be the face of the sun in the Teletubbies, is now a Christ Church student. 19 year old Jess is a first year Dance Ed student, who only recently revealed her bright past.

3. Great location

CCCU is one of two universities in Canterbury, which is one of the best student cities. Canterbury has everything – places to eat, shops, pubs and nightlife, all situated against the stunning backdrop of this historic city. And since Christ Church is a city centre uni, everything is within easy walking distance.

4. Religious connections

CCCU is a Church of England uni with strong religious connections, and our chancellor is the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby.  

5. Award-winning

Canterbury Campus’ new multi-million pound library and student support services building recently won an architectural award. Augustine House was the winner of the SCONUL Library Design Award in 2013, helping to secure a glittering future for CCCU.

6. Notable alumni

Mister Maker

CCCU has an impressive list of alumni. Christ Church graduates include the likes of impressionist Jon Culshaw, children’s TV presenter Phil Gallagher (Mister Maker), director and screenwriter Joel Hopkins, and children’s novelist Geraldine McCaughrean.

7. Girl power

Over two thirds of Christ Church students are female, with girls making up the majority of the student body.

8. Pub culture

As a historic city, Canterbury is full of charming and characterful pubs. Alongside the local ‘Spoons, these are often favoured by students over the city’s clubs.

9. Summer Ball

CCCU’s summer ball is the biggest date in the student calendar. The 2014 event featured artists including Foxes, Wilkinson, Scouting for Girls, Matrix & Futurebound, and The Midnight Beast, so it’s definitely something you don’t want to miss!

10. Freedom and truth

The motto of Christ Church is veritas liberabit vos, meaning ‘the truth shall set you free’.

Are there any facts I’ve missed out? What do you think of CCCU? Let us know in the comments below!