These collections of documentary material illustrate the main themes of educational history from the early middle ages to the late twentieth century. It contains extensive extracts from every major educational document of this period including royal and parliamentary commissions. Each document is supported by short commentaries and an annotated bibliography. Whilst the main theme is the creation of a genuine national education system, the volumes also address the relations between church and state in education, teacher training, the progressive development from elementary to primary and secondary education for all, and the growth of technical education from a private to a public activity.