The evolving status of elementary teachers in Ireland (1831–1921): from ‘feckless and impoverished’ to ‘respectable’

Abstract

ABSTRACT This research critically examines the efforts of the British State and the various churches to re-vision the character and status of elementary school teachers in Ireland between the 1830s and the 1920s. In a climate of regular political revolution and denominational hostility, the Westminster government and all churches were anxious to promote civility, loyalty and religious allegiance among the Irish populace through education. To advance these aims, strict criteria for the selection, training, recruitment and management of teachers were developed and introduced by the State and churches. The aim here is to explore and analyse the interface between, and impact of, national and local oversight on the professional standing and identity of teachers. Collectively, the concerted efforts of the State and churches led to a re-vision of the position and a change in the status of teachers that has had a lasting impact on their professional identity.