The Lucy Cavendish community is unique in the opportunities it provides, and the new student centre represents a historic development in the history of the College. In providing a purpose built environment and facilities for the specific needs of our students and their families, it will support them in pursuing their academic ambitions at the University of Cambridge. Ruth Cameron Professor of Materials Science, University of Cambridge, Lucy Cavendish College Alumna and Governing Body Fellow
Sometimes student life can feel lonely if you do not live on the main College site - just working in a lab or the library. Being able to live in a significant student community such as the new Student Centre will give us, and our families, the opportunity to feel part of Lucy Cavendish, not only to be ‘of College’, but importantly ‘in College’ too. Linda Stone Piggott Scholar in History
living an d l e a r n i n g Lucy Cavendish has grown significantly, expanding its student numbers by 50% over the last five years to a current total of over 350. This has resulted in an acute shortage of accommodation and facilities for students. At present, the College owns accommodation for less than half of our students. Students have clearly indicated that they would wish to be in more suitable ensuite accommodation on or near the College site, and those in outlying houses would welcome the opportunity to be part of a larger community with spaces to study and socialise. Given the profile of our students a major issue is Lucy Cavendish’s current lack of family accommodation. At present, students with children are often at some distance
from the College, and are therefore more isolated and less able to participate fully in College life, have access to the College library and social areas, and receive regular support from the Lucy Cavendish community. To enable Lucy Cavendish to continue creating opportunities for mature women to achieve their full potential, broaden their expectations, and enhance their contribution to society we need to provide the best possible environment and facilities for them to achieve their academic ambitions. The new Student Centre will consist of 56 ensuite study bedrooms, a social area with an outdoor space for students to relax, and eight flats for students with families, all set within secure private gardens and within ten minutes walk of the main College site.