The college was named after Sir Frederick Mander, who was Chairman of Bedfordshire County Council at the time of the tower's construction.

Bedford College was formed as a Further Education Institute to concentrate on provision within this sector, remaining at the Cauldwell Street campus.

[1] Bedford College retains some Higher Education provision, and provides a number of foundation degrees and select teaching qualifications in association with the University of Bedfordshire.

In July 2009, the college was formally awarded Beacon Status by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

The college bought the old main school buildings, Trinity Church, and the Sports and Performing Arts (SPA) complex from owners, the Harpur Trust in March 2014.

The SPA complex became Trinity Arts & Leisure, managed by Bedford College Services Ltd.

Shuttleworth College mainly provides courses and training related to agriculture and the natural environment.

In April 2014, Bedford College became a new sponsor of UTC Central Bedfordshire in Houghton Regis, and worked on building a new centre for students with the highest levels of need.