Our heritage

Staffordshire University was founded in 1914 as a polytechnic institution, and was officially given University Status on 16 June 1992. Our University is famous for its forward-thinking approach, and has become a figurehead for its vocational and academic teaching, innovative grasp of industry, and student employability.

Although our campus continues to expand to create dynamic opportunities, we are proud of our heritage in the great city of Stoke-on-Trent. Steeped in the history of ceramic manufacture and production, industry in Stoke-on-Trent has been fuelled by Staffordshire University for over 100 years.

We are committed to strengthening our close ties with employment, culture and industry in Stoke-on-Trent, and beyond.

Our coat of arms

The Staffordshire University coat of arms reflects our distinguished heritage, our successful present and our prosperous future. Each element of the coat of arms has a specific meaning relating to Staffordshire’s heritage, the University’s history, and our vision and values.

Our coat of arms explained

The crest

• The owl perching on the pillar represents Athena, Goddess of Wisdom.
• The Stafford knot carved into the pillar is the traditional symbol of our home county: Staffordshire.

Helmet and mantling

• The colours of red and white are derived from the Stoke-on-Trent Coat of Arms.

The shield

• The inverted ‘Y’ shape is a symbol of the historic institutions that have formed together to create Staffordshire University
• The open book represents knowledge, learning and education.
• The Stafford knot on the shield is the traditional symbol of our home county: Staffordshire.
• The swallows on either side of the shield represents the knowledge and students that Staffordshire University welcomes from all over the world.

The motto

• Sapere Aude literally translates as ‘dare to know’, representing our University value of being curious and daring.