Training teachers for further and technical education: staff perceptions of changing demands and policies at Bolton from 1950 to 1988

Abstract

This article examines the development of teacher training for teachers in technical and further education in England through the memories of the staff of Bolton Technical Teachers College, one of the first national centres set up for this purpose. After a brief account of the origins and the development of the college up to its merger with the Bolton Institute in 1982, the article summarises data obtained through interviews with former staff. These sections consider the staff’s perceptions of their work; the organisation and content of teacher training; and the culture of the institution. The article then considers these data in the light of the changing context of teacher training and of the work of further education colleges in England during this period.

Keywords:

• teacher training
• technical education
• further education

Notes

1. But see the recently published account of teacher training in Huddersfield by Cook, Fisher, and Walker (2008).

2. Teacher trainer participants: Bob (English, 1950–56); Frank (engineering, 1958–87); Tom (engineering, 1960–81); Joe (engineering, 1966–88); Ted (business, 1969–87); Jack (business, 1972–80); Ken (engineering, 1974–1980); George (business, 1980–2007); Colin (science, 1985–2001); Alan (science, 1986 to date).

3. Prior to this, the Ministry of Education had awarded certificates for ‘a course of training for the teaching profession which included the study of Principles and Practice of Education’ to those successfully completing the TTTC courses.

4. Hereafter referred to as the College.

5. Later known as Certificate in Education.

6. Now published as the Journal of Vocational Education & Training.