Tue 11th October, 2011
University of Bedfordshire Vice Chancellor Professor Les Ebdon CBE DL joined the Mayor of Bedford Dave Hodgson to unveil a Blue Heritage Plaque at 37, Lansdowne Road, Bedford, the original home of Bedford College of Physical Training.
The College was founded in 1903 by Margaret Stansfeld OBE with 13 students. At the time, women were discouraged from leaving home to pursue a career and Margaret broke new ground when she established the new, female profession of Physical Training Teacher.
Margaret Whitehead, president of the Bedford Physical Education Old Students Association, said: “We were delighted to welcome the Mayor of Bedford and the Vice Chancellor of the University to the ceremony. More than 60 people gathered in the glorious sunshine. We are very grateful to the current owners of Number 37, for allowing us to display the plaque on their house.”
Prior to the unveiling guests were invited to have a look around the Bedford Physical Education Archive at the University’s Campus in Polhill Avenue. Current residents of Lansdowne Road were fascinated to see photographs of their houses being used by students as far back as the 1920s.
Professor Ebdon said: “The story of Bedford College of Physical Training is one of extraordinary change and challenge, through which time Bedford has been, and still is, in the vanguard of development in physical education. Our Bedford Campus now boasts well over 3,000 students who come to study a range of courses, including sport, and have access to the latest equipment in modern, state-of-the-art facilities “
Latest news» 2011» October» Plaque unveiling to honour PE pioneer
