Where it began. How it’s changed. Why it still matters.
For over 100 years, the Institute of Education has evolved alongside education itself — responding to challenges, embracing change, and shaping those who go on to shape others.
Explore the milestones that have shaped who we are today.
First record of teacher education at the University Extension College. The Pupil Teacher Department opens on Valpy Street.
University College, Reading becomes the University of Reading.
Education students can obtain a degree in Arts, Science or Agriculture and the Postgraduate Diploma in Education, or a Diploma in Letters or Educational Handicrafts.
The first MA in Education is awarded to William James Messer.
The Department for the Training of Teachers becomes the Department of Education.
The first PhDs in Education are awarded to Charles P. Rawson and Isabella E. Campbell.
The Reading Institute of Education is established. It is a partnership between the University, the Training Colleges and the Local Education Authorities.
The Reading Institute of Education becomes the University Institute of Education. It is a separate unit from the University’s Department of Education.
The University Institute of Education hosts education student visitors from Nigeria.
Betty Root founds the influential Centre for the Teaching of Reading. She is later awarded an MBE for services to education.
The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) begins to replace the Postgraduate Diploma in Education.
A merger with Bulmershe College of Higher Education results in the formation of the Faculty of Education and Community Studies.
Teacher education is relocated from London Road Campus to Bulmershe Court.
Myra McCulloch becomes Dean of the Faculty of Education and Community Studies, after working at Bulmershe College before the merger. She later becomes Pro-Vice Chancellor.
All Education departments are combined into the School of Education.
The School of Education is renamed the Institute of Education in homage to its historical origins.
The Institute of Education is named the leading location in the UK to train primary school teachers by the Good Teacher Training Guide.
The Institute of Education relocates back to London Road Campus.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Institute of Education students continue to thrive on placements.
The James Furlong Award for Outstanding Mentoring is introduced, recognising the work of school mentors in the University’s partnership of schools.
The Institute of Education is reaccredited to provide Initial Teacher Education.
The Institute of Education is the first school from the University of Reading to be awarded the national Collaborative Award for Teaching Excellence.
The Institute of Education establishes a Centre of Excellence for Overseas Teachers.
The University turns 100, providing the Institute of Education an opportunity to celebrate its impact and legacy, rekindle relationships with alumni, and plan for the future.