ABSTRACT
Diversity is still very apparent, even among local education authorities (LEAs) which are the major providers of training for educators of adults. There are over one hundred different LEAs in England and Wales and some are very active in this field, but others are doing very little. City and Guilds is an independent body, founded in 1878 by the livery companies of London, to help the development of technical education. Another independent institution which offers examinations and certificates to those who follow courses in most colleges of further education and similar institutions is the Royal Society of Arts, originally founded in 1754. A third independent body, founded in 1846, serves as an international professional membership body for teachers and other educators, and this also provides in-service courses and qualifications for experienced practitioners. Much education of adults, both formal and non-formal, is provided by thousands of voluntary associations, some are large and have a national orientation.
