The office of Proctor at the University of Oxford dates back to medieval times. Similar roles probably came into existence with the University, although until the mid-13th century they were known as "rectors" or "taxors". The role has evolved over the centuries, but the Proctors are senior officers of the University involved in governance, student discipline and ceremonial matters.
There are two Proctors, known as the Senior Proctor and the Junior Proctor, who have equal authority and status. Historically, the designations "Senior" and "Junior" were determined by academic seniority rather than by the geographical constituencies represented by the Proctors. In modern times, the nominee who has held the Oxford MA for longer becomes Senior Proctor, and the other becomes Junior Proctor. Proctors are elected to serve for a single year, beginning on the Wednesday of the ninth week of Hilary term, usually in March.
In medieval times, the Proctors were elected annually from among the academics through a complex and indirect voting system intended to provide broad geographical representation. Following reforms under Charles I, a system was devised whereby the colleges elected Proctors in rotation. In the modern system, colleges remain on a rota and normally choose one of their own Fellows to serve.
In 1960, the office of "Representative of the Women's Colleges" was created and was subsequently renamed Assessor. The office was subsequently incorporated into the college rotation for the election of the Proctors and Assessor. The Assessor shares the Proctors' governance responsibilities and has a particular concern for student welfare.
Proctors, 1267–1959