About Me
I initially went to Cambridge University (Christ’s College) as a student of Latin and Italian. After studying ancient paintings, sculpture and architecture in my first year, I decided to change my allegiance to the History of Art Department. I went on to write an art-based dissertation in my third year (looking at early painted portraits in Italy) and specialized in European art for my finals. By the time I graduated in 2002 with First Class Honours, I knew that art history was for me!
I next read for a Masters in Renaissance painting at the Courtauld Institute of Art in London (2003-2004). From there I took a job at Christie’s Auctioneers in the Old Master Pictures Department, which while fast-paced and stimulating, offered very little in the way of actual contact with great works of art.
I now work on a part-time basis for Art History Abroad, a company that specializes in art tours for students and adults in cities across Europe. I also work as a private tutor of art history for students in London and have evolved a successful system of on-site and home tuition. I combine this with freelance work in the Art History Department of Westminster School in London.
Since graduating from Cambridge I have worked as a freelance journalist, writing regular arts and culture features for a number of national magazines and newspapers.
HFA testimonials
"My daughter so much enjoyed her two days with you visiting various art galleries in London. She came home bubbling with excitement about the paintings she had seen and the stimulating conversations she had shared with you. She said that standing in front of a painting with you was a complete revelation and really encouraged her to use her analytical skills. Thank you so much".
Maggie Cooper, October 2006
Thank you so much for an amazing morning’s tour- I learnt so much from you! I came home buzzing after our visit to Tate Modern and the Saatchi Gallery. I’ll be back for more!
Rebecca Fitzgerald, September 2006
Your love for history of art has inspired a new interest in all of us. Thank you for a wonderful morning and the fantastic restaurant recommendation!
Rachel Cadden, Emma Cosser and Theresa Morgan, September 2006.
You were such an inspiration to us. We’ve been back to the National Gallery twice already since our Italian Renaissance tour.
Emily Ramsay, May 2006
We can’t even begin to thank you enough for all your kindness, fun and outstanding teaching. The children are still talking about it.
Gates Family, July 2006
Our tour with you at Tate Britain kept me interested and intrigued for hours! Our stay in London would have been great, but you made it unbelievable! Thank you so much for everything.
John and Sophie Martin, December 2005
Thank you so much for what was a really fun tour around the Courtauld. It entirely exceeded my expectations. My own work seems a little dull by comparison now!
Jonathan Pascall May 2006
We have nothing but the highest praise to lavish on Aleid... we owe her a great deal of thanks for making our son’s exam preparation so calm and focused. I am always inspired when I meet a true teacher, and Aleid encompasses all the qualities one would hope to find. From her enthusiasm, including understanding of the student and subject, through to her persistence in ensuring each lesson achieves results.
Elizabeth Thetford, mother of A Level student Kyle, June 2006
Thank you so much for your fantastic tutoring in Siena, Florence, Verona and Venice… it was such a pleasure to be taught by someone with so much passion and enthusiasm for art. Louisa Laing Autumn 2006
We can help you get your place!
Applying to read History of Art or a related humanities subject at university in a few weeks’ time? Head for Art can help you with every stage of your university application, offering personal support and expert advice at every step along the way. Head for Art will maximise your chances of success and help you win your university place of choice.
Excellent experience, excellent results
Aleid read languages (Latin and Italian) and Art History at Cambridge (Christ’s College) from 1998 to 2002. She graduated with First Class honours before going on to read for a Masters degree at the Courtauld Institute of Art in London. With such recent experience of the demands of the university application process, Aleid is excellently equipped to offer the kind of bespoke advice that can make your application stand out from the rest. Since graduating, she has successfully coached and placed many students in their universities and colleges of choice.
Services Head for Art provide
Starting the Application Process
Head for Art gives an objective, honest and early view of the applicant, the potential course, the college and or university.
University and college selection
Head for Art will provide you with a bespoke report with objective information on recommended colleges, application statistics and a reading list for your subject.
Application Form Drafting
Head for Art offers unlimited and subject-focused support for your personal statement. Get help with your Oxbridge form from us chosen humanities subject.
Interview preparation
Head for Art offers comprehensive, subject-specific interview skills training and mock interviews. We will provide an interview skills guide as well as help with past questions and a reading list for your course.
On-site gallery tuition
Spend time in one or more of the galleries in London, familiarising yourself with a chosen collection of works. Refresh your ideas and sharpen your eyes so that you can impress your interviewer with your art history knowledge and passion.
Prices and contact details
Private coaching, tuition and interview preparation is run at £30.00 per hour
Please email Aleid Ford at aleid@headforart.com or call on 07736 668 734 to arrange tuition
