Cambridge University Press
The Cambridge story began in 1534 when Henry VIII granted us Letters Patent (a ‘Royal Charter’) allowing Cambridge University Press to print “all manner of books”.
The Press published our first book in 1584, making us the oldest publishing house in the world. During the next four centuries the Press’s reputation spread throughout Europe, based on excellence in scholarly publishing of academic texts, poetry, school books, prayer books and Bibles. Along the way the Press published ground-breaking works such as Isaac Newton’s Philosophiæ Naturalis Principia Mathematica, John Milton’s Lycidas, Ernest Rutherford’s Radio-activity, and Noam Chomsky’s Language and Mind.
In the 20th century the Press extended that influence to become a global publisher, and in the 21st it is still growing, bringing millions of ideas on thousands of subjects to the world.
Cambridge Assessment
Cambridge Assessment was established as the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES) by the University of Cambridge in 1858. It was set up to administer local examinations for students who were not members of the University of Cambridge, with the aim of raising standards in education. It also inspected schools. There have been many changes to the education system over the years but the ethos that sparked the creation of that original organisation still drives us today. We strive for ongoing improvement to assessment systems and methodologies around the world to make sure learners can access the benefits of their education.
Single organisation
Our two founding organisations have a long-entwined history, from a starting point in December 1858 when the Press first printed exam papers for UCLES to today’s world-spanning collaboration supporting the future of teaching, learning, assessment, and research. Everything we do is underpinned by research and evidence.
Principles for the future of educationAssessment Research and Development
Academic
We make sure academics can access high-quality, digitally interconnected materials that enhance understanding and the global impact of research. We currently publish more than 380 peer-reviewed academic journals and thousands of books for research and higher education.
For English
Around the world we help people learn English and prove their skills. Along with the latest research, we connect teachers and learners. This approach lets us learn from each other, constantly improve our teaching materials and unlock real-life opportunities for all.
Partnership for Education
We are committed to supporting education ministries, teachers and students globally, by helping to position education systems to establish robust, coherent and contextualised solutions to address education needs. Collectively engaging in dialogue, we aim to share insight and work together to develop long-term, resilient and inclusive education systems.
For schools
We create and deliver education programmes and curiculua; tests and qualifications around the world. These are all supported by print and digital teaching and learning resources.
Cambridge CEM
We help teachers be the best they can be by turning their data into action. This means they can support students and be confident that they are making the best decisions about learning based on the most robust evidence available.
