125 UEL Stories
Hero Carousel
125 UEL Stories
125 years of pioneering futures: celebrating UEL's community legacy
This year, we embark on a journey that not only pays tribute to our rich heritage but also celebrates the vibrant tapestry of individuals who have played a pivotal role in shaping our legacy.
Our 125-year journey has been nothing short of remarkable, and our 125 UEL Stories campaign showcases the heart and soul of our university; shining a spotlight on seven different groups that have made an indelible mark on our institution. From our dedicated students who are the driving force of innovation and change, to our esteemed staff who tirelessly nurture the minds of the future, and our athletes who show that physical activity is an inclusive activity – this campaign is a testament to the collective spirit that defines the University of East London as we celebrate our 125th anniversary.
125 UEL Staff
Explore what sets UEL apart, as highlighted by our dedicated staff. Click below to find out more.
125 UEL Students
Discover the reasons our students cherish UEL by clicking below.
125 Athletes
Explore the reasons that make UEL a university choice for our athletes. Click below to uncover the qualities that set us apart.
125 Graduates
Dive into the special experiences that make UEL stand out for graduates - click below to learn more.
125 Alumni
Alumni represent a living history of the University, click below to find out what our alumni love about UEL.
Our History
The University of East London was founded in 1898 as the West Ham Technical Institute, a "people's university". It provided education to the working-class, women, and marginalised individuals who were excluded from opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Then, as now, technological change was revolutionising the global economy, and the Institute’s task was to ensure students were prepared to enter the world of work, give back to their communities, and create positive change in the world. Over the years, the institution has evolved, moving location, adding campuses and becoming a university but those original ambitions have remained at the heart of what we do.
Now on our 125th anniversary, we want to showcase some of the amazing people who've studied and worked here, reflecting on their incredible achievements and telling our story to the world.
Our Future
This is a particularly exciting time at UEL, as we both mark our 125th year and approach the mid-point of our ambitious 10-year strategy, Vision 2028. Under Vision 2028, we have made real progress towards achieving our goals of achieving net-zero carbon, prioritising student and staff well-being, and fostering holistic education that emphasises inclusivity, impactful research and career-readiness.
Our impact is vast. New, independent analysis has determined that in 2021/22, the University contributed £814million to the UK economy. And our wider activity has supported over 3,545 jobs, primarily in east London, including 1,385 jobs directly employed by the University or by companies where students and visitors spend money.
Our impact is also measured by tangible environmental and social benefits. UEL has reduced both its CO2 emissions and energy consumption more than any other modern London university; and we are playing a pivotal role in tackling root causes of health inequalities, helping to solve NHS workforce challenges in east London – 1 in every 12 adult nursing students in London is now studying at UEL.
Led by our transformational Vision 2028 strategy, we have thrived, earning a spot on the shortlist for the Times Higher Education University of the Year Award 2023. In rankings, we are the third highest climber nationally in the Guardian University Guide and secured the 13th spot in UK graduating students’ positivity in the 2023 National Student Satisfaction survey.
We look forward to the next 125 years with a vision for continued growth, adaptability, and a commitment to improving lives locally, nationally, and globally.