Dr Helen Charman was appointed Director of Learning and National Programmes at the V&A in March 2018. The division offers a variety of ways to engage with V&A collections and expertise across the V&A in South Kensington, at the Museum or Childhood in Bethnal Green. A responsive and inspiring Learning Portfolio creates unique learning experiences for primary, secondary, college students and teachers that are rooted in creative pedagogy, harnessing the power of the V&A collection, displays and exhibitions for now and for the future.

Prior to joining the V&A, Dr Charman worked at the Design Museum as Director of Learning and Research since 2007, most recently on the directorate team that successfully mobilised the museum in its new home in Kensington. A cultural learning professional and a passionate advocate for the critical role of art and design in education, Helen has 25 years’ experience in museum and gallery education.