Watchdogs or Visionaries?

Perspectives on the History of the Education Inspectorate in Wales

Edited by Ann Keane

Publication date:

15 November 2022

Length of book:

248 pages

Publisher

University of Wales Press

Dimensions:

216x138mm

ISBN-13: 9781786839404

BOOK DESCRIPTION
TABLE OF CONTENTS

This is a ground-breaking history of school and college inspection in Wales. With contributions from two former chief inspectors, two former HMI and leading historians, it offers an authoritative account of how the inspectorate has changed over time. Since their beginnings in 1839, HMI have steered a course between being instruments of the state and independent influencers of education policy and practice. They have been much-valued catalysts for improvement in schools and colleges, and have had a key role in promoting the teaching of the Welsh language, history and culture. This book is written for anyone concerned with the history of education in Wales, the history of accountability in education, with approaches to school improvement, and the extent to which HMI have influenced or been at odds with education policy making. At a time when the inspectorate itself is under review, this is a timely reminder of its wide-ranging services.

Notes on contributors Preface Glossary Introduction - Ann Keane 1 The origins and development of the inspectorate in Wales, 1839–1907 - Russell Grigg 2 Owen Edwards, the Welsh Department and the curriculum, 1907–25 - Ann Keane 3 The inspectorate between 1925 and 1970: responses and reactions - Alun Morgan 4 Inspecting and reporting in a changing educational climate, 1970–92 - Roy James 5 Challenge and transition: the inspectorate in Wales, 1992–2020 - Barry Norris 6 Women in the inspectorate in Wales - Sian Rhiannon Williams 7 Devolution, education policy and inspection in Wales: a policy analysis - David Egan 8 Inspection in Wales and internationally: some comparisons - Russell Grigg and Ann Keane The future - Ann Keane Appendix I The statutory basis of the inspectorate Appendix II List of Wales senior or chief inspectors Appendix III List of key milestones Selected bibliography Index