A Tribute to a Kind, Thoughtful, Intelligent President

Bridget Plowden died on 29th September, 2000 aged 90. When she was appointed to chair the Central Advisory Council on Education in 1963 she was largely unknown in the education world. Publication of Children and their Primary School (known later as the Plowden Report) launched her on a wave of public service which lasted to within a few years of her death. Among her many commitments, she was (from1970) Vice-Chairman of the BBC Board of Governors and Chairman of the Independent Broadcasting Authority (from 1975).

As President of NIACE from 1981 to 1988 she quickly gained the respect and affection of staff and membership. With her deep voice and tall straight-back posture she appeared forbidding to those who did not know her. In reality she was ever- friendly, courteous and considerate. Bridget was a political animal, with a keen and reliable judgement of the possibilities open to the Institute. Her accumulated experience and knowledge, coupled with her wisdom, made her an invaluable friend and advisor to all of us. I had the pleasure and privilege of working with her in Inner London and at NIACE, when I chaired the Executive from 1986 to 1992. In common with others, I learned much from Bridget Plowden. She may not have been teacher-trained, nor was she at any time employed as a teacher - nonetheless, her sensitive and considered advice and guidance marked her as a mentor and teacher who would never be forgotten.

Bridget had the ability to operate effectively at all levels. As a member of the ILEA immediately after the publication of her report she made significant contributions to the development of policy and practice in primary schools and lifelong learning. At national level she made powerful representations to governments on behalf of organisations and causes with which she was associated. This was particularly important to NIACE. During the 1980’s and early 90’s the Institute led the way in making presentations to governments of the day to protect the quality and quantity of adult education and training. The climate was not too good - some of us wondered if the age of the philistines would ever end. Bridget met people, wrote letters, led deputations and spoke out in public for what she strongly held to be worth saving and strengthening. She was fearless in representing the interests of individuals and groups with special needs, including gypsies and travellers, asylum seekers and refugees, children requiring reading support, and adults with basic learning and skills needs.

In 1988 Alan Tuckett succeeded Arthur Stock as Director of NIACE. Bridget successfully moved the Institute through the transition period: the change of Director coincided with major constitutional changes, and expansion of staff numbers and a change in the relationship between the Institute and central and local government. Bridget handled all of these changes with tact, understanding, and loyalty to the organisation and care for the individuals involved. She was an honest, kind and intelligent person who filled the position of President of NIACE with distinction.

Bridget Plowden was more than a figurehead Honorary President of NIACE. She would not have wanted to be less than a President who contributed to policy planning and strategic thinking in addition to being the active leader of the organisation. She brought joined-up thinking to the Institute before it became fashionable. As an example to us all, we will remember her style, manner, integrity and boundless concern for others. For her considerable contribution to the progress of NIACE, we will always be grateful and respectful.

Lady Plowden with Derek Legge and George Shire