The transformation of teaching into a professional discipline requiring qualifications has a history that dates back to the rapid expansion of male and female teacher training colleges from the 1830s into the early twentieth century. These colleges, designed to train those who would teach the rapidly growing population of boys and girls from the lower classes, were at the heart of one of the biggest social transformations in British history.  Institutional teacher education transformed the lives and social trajectories of these trainees who in turn impacted the lives of millions. Over a few generations these trainees transformed the nature of the teaching profession and contributed to far-reaching changes in communities across the country. Despite this importance there is a lack of research on the nature and impact of these institutions, staff and trainees within their communities and nationally as well as of the archival resources that have been preserved.

We are inviting participants to attend and contribute to a workshop day at the Quaker Meeting House, Liverpool, on 2 June 2026, organised by Edge Hill University, in collaboration with Lincoln Bishop University. 

The intention is to orient most of the day around workshop sessions that contain  introductory (c.8-10 minutes) presentations which enable us to collectively discuss and  progress particular research questions relating to the early history of teacher training  colleges across Britain. 

Further aims of the day are to establish a national network to research the history of  teacher training, unlock underused archival collections related to this field and to  develop interdisciplinary and collaborative research opportunities for the future. 

Please provide a 250-word (max) overview of your interest and background in this area to  enable the organisers to construct a thematic and coherent programme. Please email to  Professor Alyson Brown (browna@edgehill.ac.uk)  

• If you have any suggestions or ideas for the best way to present/share your  knowledge and research, please do indicate this. We are open to whatever works  to advance collaboration and research and make the day as productive as  possible.

The attendance fee is £25 whether you are giving a session in a workshop or attending  and participating in discussion. Refreshments, including lunch, will be provided.