London's Courtauld and National Portrait Gallery announce partnership for aspiring curators

The Courtauld Institute of Art and the National Portrait Gallery (NPG) have joined forces to create a new partnership that will benefit postgraduate students specializing in curating. Starting in 2027, these students will have the opportunity to access the gallery's extensive collections, archives, and staff as part of their MA Curating programme.

The first cohort of 12 students will take a new module called "Working within Institutions" in spring 2028, co-taught by professionals from the NPG and Courtauld faculty. This 12-week elective will provide students with hands-on experience in various aspects of institutional work, including curatorial roles, collection management, exhibition development, and audience engagement.

The partnership was formed following discussions between the Courtauld's director, Mark Hallett, and the NPG's director, Victoria Siddall, who share the common goal of training a new generation of skilled curators. Hallett emphasized the importance of combining practical experience with academic training to prepare students for immediate entry into the visual arts sector.

Siddall expressed hope that the collaboration will generate meaningful opportunities for students and contribute to shaping the future of the museum sector. The new program will complement other placement options available to students on the curating course and could potentially lead to dissertation co-supervision and postgraduate research opportunities.

This long-term formal collaboration marks a significant step forward in the ongoing development of the Courtauld and the NPG, both of which have recently undergone significant transformations to enhance their offerings and facilities.