Overview

This study is the result of many years of research but is topical because of the current teacher shortage. At its peak in 1961 there were 40,000 men and women who entered colleges of education in Britain compared to 50,000 who entered traditional universities. There have been interesting histories of individual colleges but this book takes a holistic approach which was supported by the historian Professor Asa Briggs. This controversial study is packed with fascinating facts that will intrigue and inform readers. As well as the relationship between colleges and schools social issues are analysed such as the role of working class teachers and the battles of women staff and students. New evidence is provided for the colleges' expansion and their sudden closure. The study draws on undiscovered official and local archival sources. An important feature is the testimony drawn from interviews from former college students, the oldest being 101 years. This immensely readable book appeals to general readers as well as specialist historians of education. It is of particular interest to teachers, especially those whose institutions were originally colleges of education. Political scientists and sociologists will find much of relevance, as will feminists who have enjoyed Debenham's last two published books.

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This clearly written book offers a fascinating history of a neglected sector of higher education in Britain, the teacher training colleges and colleges of education thatwere merged or closed in the 1970s. Did such a move contribute to the shortage of teachers today? Here, Clare Debenham provides an informative account of thisprovocative issue. June Purvis, Professor Emerita of Women's and Gender History University of PortsmouthClare Debenham's lively study addresses critical questions that concern our provision of well-qualified, skilled and committed teachers for schools today. Extensively sourcedin institutional history and lived experience, a striking feature is the creative and influential role of many outstanding women. This book illuminates the formation ofa key profession engaged in a vital task - raising new generations of healthy, skilful, socially-minded and democratic citizens. Dr Peter Cunningham, Emeritus Fellow, Homerton College, University of Cambridge

This clearly written book offers a fascinating history of a neglected sector of higher education in Britain, the teacher training colleges and colleges of education that were merged or closed in the 1970s. Did such a move contribute to the shortage of teachers today? Here, Clare Debenham provides an informative account of this provocative issue. June Purvis, Professor Emerita of Women's and Gender History University of Portsmouth Clare Debenham's lively study addresses critical questions that concern our provision of well-qualified, skilled and committed teachers for schools today. Extensively sourced in institutional history and lived experience, a striking feature is the creative and influential role of many outstanding women. This book illuminates the formation of a key profession engaged in a vital task - raising new generations of healthy, skilful, socially-minded and democratic citizens. Dr Peter Cunningham, Emeritus Fellow, Homerton College, University of Cambridge

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