Subject Tutor Fda Books & Bindings

About West Dean

West Dean is internationally recognised as a centre of excellence for art, design, craft, and conservation education. The work of staff and students, frequently rooted in traditional skills, is both innovative and world leading.

Our programmes are delivered across two sites in the UK:
West Dean, the idyllic Grade II listed rural campus in the stunning South Downs near Chichester (West Sussex), and our new, prestigious Bloomsbury site in the heart of London. These inspiring locations provide the ideal environment in which students can work across disciplines and forge exciting new collaborations.

The Subject Tutor for FdA Books and Bindings plays a key role within the School of Arts and Conservation, contributing to the delivery and ongoing development of West Dean College’s specialist provision in bookbinding, book arts and book conservation. Working closely with the Subject Leader for Books and Library Materials and the BA and MFA Coordinator, the post-holder supports the design and delivery of a high-quality, industry-relevant curriculum across FdA, BA and MFA pathways.

The role combines practical teaching with programme organisation, workshop oversight and student support, fostering a safe, inclusive and stimulating learning environment in which students can develop technical excellence, creative confidence and professional readiness. As part of the wider academic team, the Subject Tutor contributes to assessment, programme enhancement, recruitment activity and cross-departmental collaboration, bringing strong professional expertise, a commitment to craft and conservation, and a passion for supporting student progression and wellbeing.

• Plan, deliver, and enhance innovative, industry-relevant curricula for the Books and Bindings programmes across FdA, BA, and MFA pathways.
• Lead practical teaching in bookbinding and book arts, contributing to cross-school and conservation-related curricula.
• Manage workshops and studios, ensuring safe, professional, and well-resourced learning environments.
• Support programme organisation, assessment, quality assurance, and compliance with validating bodies and College regulations.
• Participate in recruitment, student support, academic tutorials, and pastoral care, fostering an inclusive and engaging learning environment.
• Assist with budget management, visiting lecturer induction, and programme enhancement through feedback and monitoring.
• Maintain professional practice, sector networks, and represent the College externally to promote bookbinding, conservation, and creative education. Full details in the job pack.

• Generous contributory pension scheme
• Life assurance
• Employee Assistant Programme
• Mental health first aiders
• Discounted places on short courses
• Free entry into West Dean Gardens
• Discounts on accommodation
• Complimentary hot drinks, fruit & biscuits
• Free on-site parking at West Dean site
• Cycle to work scheme