Polytechnic of the South Bank
The Polytechnic of the South Bank is the historical name of the institution now known as London South Bank University (LSBU). This name not only marks an important era in the history of this educational center but also reflects a philosophy that remains a core part of its identity: a focus on practical, applied, and professionally oriented education.
The university’s origins date back to 1892, when it was established as the Borough Polytechnic Institute with the goal of “advancing industrial skills, general knowledge, health, and welfare of the working-class youth” in South London. From the outset, courses such as carpentry, printing, shoemaking, and industrial design, alongside sewing and domestic science classes for women, demonstrated a practical and community-centered approach.
A major turning point occurred in 1970, when the institute merged with three other specialized colleges—the Brixton School of Building, Westminster City College, and the National College. The result of this merger was the birth of a large and comprehensive institution named Southbank Polytechnic. The official naming ceremony took place in 1971, attended by Margaret Thatcher, the then Secretary of State for Education, highlighting the national significance of the institution. During the 1970s, this polytechnic became one of the leading centers in the UK for education in architecture, interior design, and engineering. Its educational system was based on practical projects, studio work, model making, and close industry collaboration, enabling its graduates to quickly enter the job market.
It was during this period that Mehri Akbari graduated from this university in 1972 (1351) with a degree in Interior Design and Decoration, before returning to Iran.
The institution’s evolution continued, and after a brief name change to South Bank Polytechnic in 1987, it finally attained full university status in 1992 following the implementation of the Higher Education Act, adopting the name South Bank University. The university’s final name change occurred in 2003, when it became London South Bank University (LSBU).
Today, LSBU, while preserving the legacy of the polytechnic, is one of London’s modern and reputable universities. Its School of Architecture and the Built Environment, rooted in the Brixton School of Building, continues to hold a special status, with all its programs accredited by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Architects Registration Board (ARB).
