The British Horological Institute (BHI) is expanding its programme of practical horological training and is seeking Tutors to deliver high‑quality clock and watch short courses, CPD sessions, and technical skills development. Our learners range from beginners and hobbyists to advanced practitioners preparing for professional examinations, and we are looking for tutors who can share their expertise with clarity, enthusiasm, and professionalism. This role is ideal for skilled practitioners who enjoy teaching, supporting learners, and contributing to the development of high‑quality educational programmes.
Location: Upton Hall, Nottinghamshire (or other BHI teaching venues)
Contract: Sessional / short‑course delivery
Reports to: Education Officer
Purpose of the role
Tutors deliver high‑quality practical horological training across a range of short courses, CPD programmes, and technical skills development sessions. The role supports learners from beginner and hobbyist level through to advanced practitioners preparing for Institute examinations. Tutors ensure that teaching reflects industry best practice, aligns with the Institute’s syllabus where required, and upholds the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and horological integrity.
Key responsibilities
Practical teaching and skills instruction
- Deliver engaging, structured training in clock and/or watch repair and maintenance across a wide variety of movements.
- Teach basic machining techniques using workshop equipment, including lathes, milling machines, and associated tooling.
- Embed conservation ethics, appropriate restoration approaches, and responsible repair procedures within all teaching.
- Ensure all workshop activity complies with health and safety standards, including COSHH requirements and safe operational practice.
Course delivery and learner support
- Teach across a range of formats, including beginner and hobbyist skills sessions, short CPD courses, practical technical training, and courses aligned to BHI.
- Adapt teaching methods to suit learner needs, skill levels, and course objectives.
- Provide clear demonstrations, structured guidance, and constructive feedback to support learner progress.
- Prepare and maintain lesson plans, handouts, and supporting documentation as required.
Curriculum and assessment alignment
- Deliver training in accordance with either industry best practice or the Institute’s examination syllabus and assessment framework, depending on the course assigned.
- Contribute to the development and refinement of course content, teaching materials, and practical exercises.
- Support learners preparing for BHI examinations by reinforcing required competencies and standards.
Workshop coordination and safety
- Liaise with workshop staff to ensure appropriate tools, equipment, and materials are available for each course.
- Maintain a safe, organised, and professional teaching environment.
- Promote safe working habits and ensure learners follow all workshop protocols.
Professional representation
- Uphold the Institute’s values, professional standards, and commitment to high‑quality horological education.
- Act as an ambassador for the BHI, supporting the reputation and visibility of the Institute’s training programmes.
Person specification
Essential experience and skills
- Demonstrable horological industry experience with a strong practical technical background.
- Proven ability to work on and repair a wide range of clock and/or watch movements.
- Strong communication skills, including clear verbal instruction and the ability to produce written learning materials.
- Effective time management, lesson planning, and organisational capability.
- Confidence in using workshop machinery and teaching machining fundamentals safely.
- Understanding of conservation ethics and appropriate restoration approaches.
- Ability to maintain a safe workshop environment and ensure compliance with health and safety and COSHH standards.
- Willingness to collaborate with workshop staff regarding equipment and resource needs.
- Preparedness to contribute to course development, including lesson plans and supporting documentation.
Desirable experience
- Professional membership at MBHI or FBHI level.
- Experience teaching adults, delivering technical training, or mentoring apprentices.
- Familiarity with the BHI examination framework and competency standards.
- Experience developing educational materials or structured training content.
- Knowledge of heritage conservation, museum practice, or specialist craft education.
Qualifications
- A teaching qualification at Level 3 Education and Training (or equivalent) or willingness to undertake one.
- Relevant horological qualifications or evidence of equivalent professional experience.
Personal qualities
- Patient, supportive, and able to encourage learners at all skill levels.
- Professional, reliable, and committed to maintaining high standards of practice.
- Adaptable and able to tailor teaching to different learning styles.
- Enthusiastic about promoting horology and supporting the next generation of practitioners.
Apply with a CV and a letter explaining why you are interested in the role to sarahmyelland@gmail.com