This is the fascinating story of the birth, growth, and development of the London Association for the Teaching of English from its earliest years through to the formation of the National Association for the Teaching of English and thereafter. The work of founder members of LATE, such as James Britton, Harold Rosen, and Nancy Martin, was critical in the development of an English-teaching pedagogy that still influences the work of teachers across many parts of the world today.

As a critical account of the rise of a progressive model of English, this book is essential reading for all those involved in the teaching and research of the subject, from prospective and new entrants to the profession to experienced teachers and researchers of English. With its first hand testimony and unpublished archive material, this book will also be of interest to students and researchers in the field of the history of education, and to those concerned with effective models for professional development.

In these turbulent times in education, this book offers a way to understand how we got here, and draws pertinent lessons from history for the development of inclusive English teaching and enhanced teacher professionalism.