Ratcliffe college was founded as far back as the mid 19th century as a major Catholic school and much of the complex still reflects this period, but the striking chapel is of more recent construction, having been built between 1958-60 to the designs of Ernest Bower Norris (of architects Sandy & Norris) in a style that fuses Byzantine form with modern aesthetics.
The chapel is cruciform and surmounted by a large, almost flattened central dome, but whilst it is finished with brick externally the interior is bright with rendered walls. The most eye-catching elements within are the stained glass windows designed and made by Leonard Jonah Jones in 1961-2. Most of the higher windows are abstract compositions in dalle de verre (thick slabs of glass set in a concrete or resin matrix) whilst on the north side is a stunning five-light composition that is executed in the traditional leaded technique, and whilst also largely abstract in concept includes angelic figures and a central hand of God at the apex as the focal point. Further glass by Jonah Jones enlivens the Lady Chapel also on the north side.
The chapel is not normally open to the public beyond school staff and attendees; neither was it open for Heritage weekend, therefore we are very grateful to the helpful pupils who let us in and the staff members who kindly gave us some time to enjoy the chapel during a break. It is a stunning building with some lovely glass, a space the college can be truly proud of.
www.ratcliffianassociation.co.uk/page/history-of-ratcliff... 