The Royal School of Needlework is a place of learning and creativity. We’re extremely proud of the work we produce and the level of tutoring we provide. We’re a small team doing great things! We always welcome volunteer applications and potential new Tutors. We also have permanent roles available and they’ll be listed here when we do.

Current Vacancies

Trustee

Help shape the RSNs future as we embark on an exciting period of change and growth. We’re seeking a trustee with strategic insight and senior experience of organisational development, particularly around space, property and facilities planning, to help ensure we have the best foundations to thrive. More detail about the RSN, the role of a trustee and how to apply can be found in the information pack.

RSN Trustee Information Pack

Become a Tutor

All of the tutors at the Royal School of Needlework have been trained here at the RSN to our high technical standard. You can become an RSN Tutor by joining our three year, full time Professional Embroidery Tutor Programme.

See the full Professional Embroidery Tutor Programme course details here.

Volunteers

We need enthusiastic, skills-based regular volunteers to help with certain aspects of our work.  If you would like to join the RSN volunteer team we can give job-specific training, but we are primarily looking for individuals with the following skills:

  • Computer-literacy for data entry work and website updates
  • Administration skills and help with mailings
  • Retail, customer service and e-commerce experience
  • Tour leaders with experience of public speaking
  • Collection cataloguing and help with archiving materials
  • Library cataloguing and administration

To apply to volunteer at the RSN, please email your CV and Cover Letter to:
[email protected]

Embroidery Tutor & Course Designer

Embroidery Tutor & Course Designer
Closing date: 12th of June
Salary: £35,000-£40,000 per annum
Location: Hampton Court Palace (with hybrid online delivery). 35 hour week equivalent. Opportunity for national and international teaching.
Reports to: Head of Contemporary Programmes

Role Overview

The Royal School of Needlework is seeking two full time equivalent (which may mean several part time) Embroidery Tutor & Course Designers to join its growing in-house team. These roles are central to delivering and shaping a new, world-class short course programme that positions the RSN as the global leader in hand embroidery education.

You will combine high-level technical embroidery practice with engaging, student-focused teaching, while contributing to the development of new courses across the RSN’s core collections. The role will support the development of a dynamic and sustainable programme offer that appeals to a wide range of audiences, from complete beginners to experienced stitchers.

Key Responsibilities

Teaching & Delivery

  • Deliver exceptional onsite and online embroidery courses to a consistently high standard.
  • Create an engaging, inclusive and confidence-building learning environment.
  • Adapt teaching to suit a wide range of student abilities and learning styles.
  • Make full use of AV and digital tools to enhance the student experience.

Course Development

  • Conduct ongoing research into current market trends.
  • Design and develop new courses inspired by contemporary practice and the RSN archive.
  • Produce high-quality stitched samples and course materials.
  • Contribute to structured learning outcomes and a consistent teaching framework.

Student Experience & Engagement

  • Support students throughout their learning journey and encourage progression.
  • Provide tailored recommendations for further courses and products.
  • Foster a strong sense of community within classes.
  • Support day-to-day administrative tasks including sourcing materials and kit packing.

Marketing & Brand Integration

  • Work with the marketing team to deliver campaign content and storytelling.
  • Act as an ambassador for the RSN at all times.
  • Maintain a strong working knowledge of the RSN’s portfolio and archive.

Person Specification

Essential

  • High-level of embroidery skills across multiple techniques.
  • Ability to provide evidence of current or past work/creative programming.
  • Strong market awareness and professional experience in textiles or fashion.
  • Strong communication skills and adaptability in live teaching environments.

Desirable

  • RSN qualification (Degree, Future Tutor, Apprenticeship, or C&D).
  • Portfolio containing: Tambour Beading, Goldwork, Stumpwork, Whitework, Blackwork, etc.
  • Experience teaching in formal/informal settings and knowledge of sustainable practices.
  • Familiarity with online teaching platforms like Zoom.

How to Apply: Please email your portfolio, CV, and cover letter to
[email protected].

Note: Each FTE role is advertised at £35k-40k; expectations are for applicants to start at the lower end of this range.