a short history of Adult Schools
History
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| The National Adult School Organisation is perhaps the
oldest surviving voluntary education movement, having been started by
William Singleton and Samuel Fox (shown above) in 1798. Since then,
the concept of an 'Adult School' has been developed and adapted to
meet the needs of sucessive generations of men and women. For many,
it is still very relevant today. Originally formed to teach adults
how to read and write, NASO now aims to provide a continuous, broad
education for life through informal, self-help, friendly discussion
groups, sometimes called 'Friendship Through Study Groups'.
In his readable, entertaining, yet erudite survey, Trevor Sowden traces the development of the Movement from its earliest beginnings through to a time of rapid growth during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. He then accounts for the changes in organisation and membership which resulted from the effects of two World Wars and, finally, sets the scene for NASO's third century. People who have cherished, lived for and been helped by the spirit and ideals of Adult Schools. NASO's enduring aims are to deepen understanding and to enrich life; the three keys in one of its symbols representing Frienship, Knowledge and Understanding. As the Organisation anticipates the new millenium, it faces the challenge of evolution with enthusiasm. Taken from the cover notes of the book Learning For Life: Adult Schools, 1798 - 1998 by Trevor Sowden which is available from the General Secretary. Price £2.50. |