Copyright -
G P Sagar - 2015
The Educational Institute of Design, Craft and Technology
1891 to 1990
( Formerly - The Institute of Craft Education )
( Formerly - The Institute of Handicraft Teachers )
For Teachers - Run by teachers!
During the 1960's, 70's and 80's, the position of Craft Subjects, superceded by the Design and Technology metamorphosis, was quite strong within schools and was widely acknowledged and appreciated, with of course the exception of traditional academic schools. Specifically it was a subject which fueled our needs in the manufacturing industries of the time, and a good deal of our entrepreneurial development. The side which was not appreciated was its impact upon the overall education of a pupil.
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The Institute for many years supported the teachers and educational direction through the enthusiasm of the teachers involved.
This enthusiasm fueled other enthusiasm with a result of a period of real educational success. Sadly this was not to last because such success by ordinary teachers eventually irritated and undermined those in higher places, particularly after the ending of the Teacher Training Colleges in favour of university degree courses, when there was a rush for numerous elevated positions in the Universities.
The Structure and Elements of the Institute.
The National President
General Secretary and Executive Council
Help Network
The Saturday morning meetings were informative sessions aimed at generating ideas to improve teaching. These were social occasions and were free. Much of the subjects development was generated here through teachers’ enthusiasm.
In the mid 60’s to the late 70’s the Institute was a very healthy organization sporting
48 thriving local branches with a regular increasing membership of around 25 per month.
The College Council
Professional Qualifications
Summer Schools
Buyer's Guide
Benevolent Fund
Professional Representation
Historically, universities never recognised the practical subjects as worthy educational elements, and little has changed. The college was created to give teachers the opportunity to develop their own learning, and be recognised for their increased ability. The courses and awards were regarded as degree equivalents.
Courses
and Training
Monthly Saturday Morning Meetings
National Branches
These events were produced at minimal cost and geared towards giving all teachers the opportunity to become involved. The whole aim was to develop and improve the subject whilst keeping abreast of all national and social trends.
Links with the Colleges were very strong.
'Quality' was always central to the pursuits of the Institute.
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