Innovation and Experimentation

During the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, it was common for students and staff at UC to design and build equipment that would support their academic endeavours. This was particularly evident through the technology developed for science based subjects (such as Chemistry and Physics). From laboratory research to classroom experiments, the equipment developed during this period became the stepping stones to much of what we know today.

The innovative culture at the College went beyond the creation of advanced technology. Much like education institutes today, Canterbury fostered an environment where individuals were encouraged to think outside the box. As a result, the College saw students and staff reach beyond innovative conceptual design. Personalities such as Sir Ernest Rutherford and Charles Foweraker went on to preserve their names in history for their innovative contributions to science and education.