University of Bedfordshire

The University of Bedfordshire is home to the Bedford Physical Education Archive and the Levick Boyd Archive for Women’s Lacrosse.

Our collections

Bedford Physical Education Archive

The Bedford Physical Education Archive holds a unique collection of materials charting the development of Bedford Physical Training College from its foundation by Margaret Stansfeld (1860-1951) in 1903 through to its absorption into the Bedford College of Higher Education in 1976.  Illustrating the progress of women’s physical education during the twentieth century, the archive is an important resource for those interested in dance, gymnastics and sport but is not limited to physical education – the collection also offers the potential for research in the areas of teaching and education, social history, and women’s history and the female tradition.

The archive contains a wide variety of records, including syllabuses and examination papers charting the changing curriculum, an extensive collection of students’ photograph albums dating back to 1903, and oral history recordings from students and staff reflecting on how the College influenced their life and career.

Levick Boyd Archive for Women’s Lacrosse

The Levick Boyd Archive for Women’s Lacrosse seeks to enhance knowledge and understanding for the game of women’s lacrosse through assembling and preserving a comprehensive record of its development.  Holdings include the records of the All England Women’s Lacrosse Association and a growing number of collections of personal papers and memorabilia from former international players and administrators.