Art History Link-Up (AHLU) is a registered charity dedicated to making art history accessible to young people from diverse backgrounds. We provide free accredited art history courses to state school students, equipping them with skills that enhance their academic and professional futures. Our mission is to foster a more inclusive and equitable art world by breaking down barriers to participation.

AHLU has been transforming Art History education since 2016 through its flagship ‘Art History for Everyone’ programme. These free-of-charge hybrid courses, taught in partnership with major cultural institutions including The Courtauld and The National Gallery, enable state school sixth-form students to gain an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and/or an A Level in Art History. Each year, demand for these courses significantly exceeds available places. Our students consistently achieve high grades in their A Level and EPQ qualifications.

Over 600 students from over 300 state schools across the UK have studied with AHLU. Many of our students are now studying Art History at Russell Group universities, including significant numbers at the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, and the Courtauld Institute, reflecting the impact of our programme on widening access to higher education. Alumni of our programmes have secured roles at leading cultural institutions, including Christie’s and the National Portrait Gallery, illustrating the professional impact of our programmes.

From 2022 onwards, AHLU piloted Introduction to Art History courses for 13- to-15 year olds in museums and galleries, including Dulwich Picture Gallery, the National Gallery, Sir John Soane’s Museum, the Courtauld and Waddesdon Manor. By 2024, it was clear that students wanted an accredited award as a potential outcome to their studies. In response to this, we began offering Art History Higher Project Qualification (HPQ) courses, which are equivalent to half a GCSE.

AHLU will teach in excess of 200 state students in 2024-5. We have over 80 students on our free Art History A Level and EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) courses for state sixth form students, and c.120 students studying on our free Art History HPQ (Higher Project Qualification) courses for Y9/10 state students this year.

While AHLU fills a considerable skills gap, our charity only hints at the demand: currently thousands of young people who love art, and have much to contribute, are missing out on opportunities. No other charity is doing this work. We are seeking a Chair with the relevant experience and determination who will relish the challenge of making our mission of ‘Art History for everyone’ a reality.

Role Summary 

The Chair of Art History Link-Up will provide strategic leadership, governance, and oversight to ensure the charity fulfills its mission effectively. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, the CEO, and key stakeholders, the Chair will support the charity’s growth and impact while maintaining strong governance and financial sustainability.

Key Responsibilities 

?      Provide leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring effective governance and compliance with regulatory requirements.

?      Support and oversee the strategic direction of the Charity, ensuring alignment with its mission and values.

?      Act as an ambassador for AHLU, fostering relationships with key stakeholders, including funders, educational institutions, and cultural organisations.

?      Work collaboratively with the CEO, providing guidance and support, while maintaining appropriate governance oversight.

?      Oversee financial sustainability, supporting fundraising initiatives and ensuring sound financial management.

?      Lead and facilitate board meetings, ensuring that trustees are involved, informed, and contribute effectively to decision-making.

?      Ensure the Charity meets its legal and ethical obligations, maintaining high standards of transparency and accountability.

?      Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion across all aspects of AHLU’s work.

Person Specification

Essential:

?      A commitment to the mission and values of Art History Link-Up.

?      Experience of a founder-led organisation

?      Leadership experience at board or senior executive level.

?      Knowledge of charity governance and regulatory frameworks.

?      Strong strategic thinking and decision-making skills.

?      Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and influence diverse stakeholders.

?      Financial acumen and an understanding of fundraising principles.

?      A collaborative and diplomatic approach, with the ability to foster an inclusive and engaged board culture.

Desirable: 

?      Experience in the arts, education, or charitable sectors.

?      A network of contacts within the cultural, philanthropic, or educational fields.

?      Experience with fundraising and income generation for non-profits.

How to Apply 

To find our more and to apply, visit our website to download our Chair Recruitment Pack, and / or to arrange to have an informal discussion about the role, please contact outgoing Chair, Toby Monk, or CEO Rose Aidin. Interested candidates should submit a CV and a cover letter outlining their interest and relevant experience by 7th April.

Successful applicants will be invited to an interview with member(s) of the Board at a mutually convenient time.