Join us for the launch of Simon Gibbons' new book Harold Rosen and English in Education and the Language Arts on 15 January 2025.

Simon Gibbons embarks on a detailed and groundbreaking study in this book, examining the profound influence of Harold Rosen, a pivotal figure who transformed English education in the latter half of the twentieth century.

Gibbons offers the first comprehensive analysis of Rosen’s revolutionary contributions to progressive English teaching methodologies that continue to resonate in classrooms worldwide.

Drawing on extensive research, including previously unpublished writings and interviews with Rosen’s colleagues, Gibbons meticulously charts Rosen’s multifaceted impact: his development of a new model for English teaching; his pioneering work on language, class and culture; his innovative approaches to narrative in education; and his advocacy for teacher agency.

The book illuminates how Rosen’s work at the London Institute of Education, alongside colleagues James Britton and Nancy Martin, fundamentally reshaped understanding of language across the curriculum while maintaining an unwavering commitment to educational equity. Gibbons makes a compelling case for the contemporary relevance and necessary rediscovery of Rosen’s educational philosophy.

This volume serves as an essential resource for student teachers, practicing educators and academics in English and language arts while also offering valuable insights to educators across disciplines interested in language’s role in learning. By reconnecting readers with Rosen’s enduring legacy, the book provides both historical perspective and practical guidance for addressing current educational challenges.

Meet the author

Dr Simon Gibbons is Reader in English Education Director of Teacher Education at the School of Education, Communication and Society at King's College London. His research interests concern the history of school English pedagogy and practice, and the importance of teacher professionalism and collaboration in the development of effective classroom practice in the subject.

Meet the panelists

Michael Rosen is a children's author, poet, playwright, columnist and teacher. He has written over 200 books for children and adults, and continues to deliver talks, workshop and performances across the UK. Michael is the sole child of Harold Rosen, who the book is about.

Andy Goodwyn has a strong research and international publication record in the field of English in Education which is well established, and has many valuable professional connections around the world.  As symbolic President of the International Federation for the Teaching of English, he has networks of colleagues around the world and has been lead editor on the five published IFTE volumes for Routledge.  he is series editor of Key Thinkers in English in Education and the Language Arts.  He is a former Chair of NATE. He is currently Emeritus Professor at The University of Reading where he was PGCE English course leader for 20 years and Head of the Institute of Education.

More panelists to be announced