College of Preceptors x College of Teachers

The College was formed as the Society of Teachers in 1846, by a group of private schoolmasters from Brighton who were concerned about standards within their profession, and was incorporated by Royal Charter as the College of Preceptors in 1849. It pioneered a system for the formal examination and qualification of secondary school teachers and many teachers have acquired the qualifications of the College: ACP (Associate), LCP (Licentiate) and FCP (Fellow). It was also one of the first bodies to examine and provide certificates for secondary school pupils of both sexes, from all over England and Wales, at different levels, and in a wide variety of subjects. Through its publications, meetings, lectures and discussions, the College also participated in debates on examinations, standards and a wide range of professional and educational issues, particularly those affecting private schooling. Many influential educationists have been associated with the College, either as members of Council or as lecturers or advisers, including Joseph Payne (1808-1876), Frances Mary Buss (1827-1894), and Sir John Adams (1857-1934). The College continues to provide in-service qualifications for teachers and is now called the College of Teachers (since 1998).