Discover the previously-untold story of the men and women who built Catholic education in England and Wales against the odds. Drawing together archives, personal histories, and long-overlooked sources, it reveals how a scattered, impoverished community created a thriving network of schools and a distinct teaching profession.

From the challenges of penal times to the reforms of the 1944 Education Act, this rich and deeply researched study uncovers a world shaped by faith, resilience, and determination. It highlights the vital role of religious orders, the influence of Irish immigration, and the dedication of teachers – many of them working in hardship and prejudice – whose efforts transformed generations.

Insightful and compelling, The Forgotten Profession is an essential account of a hidden history that still shapes education today.