Plan for livery company

A group of educationists have applied to the Corporation of London for the right to set up an education livery company.

"Livery companies are not just dining clubs for the rich," said Keith Lawrey, the man behind the idea for a Guild of Preceptors. "They provide a tremendous amount of financial support to the professions concerned, particularly in prize awards, scholarships and support for research."

Mr Lawrey was learned societies liaison officer with the Science and Technology Council and treasurer of the College of Preceptors - now the College of Teachers.

He said the guild would be an opportunity to continue the name preceptors, as well as providing a status symbol and an entree for education into the financial resources and influence of the City.

Plans submitted to the corporation propose that the guild should become a Worshipful Company embracing the whole of education and training, including schools, universities, industry, business and publishing.

Supporters include Roderick Floud, provost of London Guildhall University, and Nick Carey, director general of City and Guilds of London Institute.