The History of Art Department at Westminster comprises two Art Historians who are subject specialists, creatively-minded and fully committed to developing excellent practice in teaching and learning. Classes are intimate, with about five-10 pupils in each, and discussion forms an important part of our practice. Drawing on academic specialisms and breadth of learning, teachers encourage an enthusiasm for art and architecture that extends far beyond the classroom. Pupils learn how to respond critically to the uses of images they encounter, not only in galleries, but also in the world around them to find significant links between different cultures and periods of history. We encourage ambitious wider-reading, gallery visits and believe in the importance of developing a personal, creative and critical voice.

The department is located adjacent to the Art department, allowing for inter-disciplinary opportunities. Each classroom is fully equipped for the subject, and each teacher has their own room and pupils have their own extensive History of Art lending library. There is a thriving co-curricular programme, every year pupils take part in ARTiculation and SPoKE, alongside other external essay competitions, and there are multiple internal essay competitions and travel scholarships, as well as other opportunities, such as pupil-led societies and magazines. Pupils frequently visit galleries and museums within the timetable and there are currently two trips overseas, to Florence in the Lower Sixth and to Paris in the Upper Sixth.

The role
We are looking for a well-qualified subject specialist to join the History of Art Department from January 2026, as maternity cover for one year. The Teacher of Art History will bring new expertise to the department in developing the range of taught artworks, particularly looking to improve diversity and inclusion with appropriately broad, balanced, relevant and differentiated case-studies.

The ideal candidate will be able to inspire their pupils with a longstanding love and appreciation of art and architecture, and will help maintain Westminster’s very high academic standards. Applicants should be able to demonstrate imaginative and versatile teaching practice, the ability to work equally well with KS5 pupils, and the suitability for contributing to all areas of departmental life. Applications are welcome from experienced teachers and from those new to teaching. In addition to their academic teaching, any successful applicant will be expected to support the pastoral and co-curricular life of the School.

This is a part-time, term-time only role, with teaching taking place on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.