Bernard Dunstan studied at Byam Shaw School of Art in 1939 and subsequently at the Slade School of Fine Art, London from 1939 to 1941. He went on to teach at the West of England School of Art in Bristol from 1946 to 1949, Camberwell School of Art from 1950 to 1964, Byam Shaw School of Art from 1953 to 1974, Ravensbourne Art College from 1959 to 1964 and City and Guilds of London Art School from 1964 to 1969. Elected RA 1968.