The Supporting Factors and the Reasons behind the Implementation of Integrated Education for the Blind in the Late 1960s, Sheffield, England

Abstract

This research aimed to clarify the actual condition and the supporting factors in the City of Sheffield’s integration scheme for the blind in the late 1960s. Although the city had always been flexible towards how and where children with special educational treatment are educated, the existence of charismatic persons such as E.H.G.Tooze and J. Whittaker of the Tapton School for the Blind was indispensable. The integration scheme also involved people from various backgrounds such as from state administration to the local public. Behind this, the scheme being in conjunction with the city’s comprehensive school movement acted as a key. The integration scheme of the blind was not just a merit for the blind or their parents, but a merit for the whole community aiming towards social equality.