Ann Macbeth studied at Glasgow School of Art from 1897-1909. In 1902 she was appointed to the position of Assistant Mistress, teaching courses in needlework, embroidery and applique, in the Design and Decorative Art Section. She continued to teach in the Glasgow School of Art until her retirement in 1929, gaining extra responsibilities until she left. In 1903-5 she taught Design and Instruction, from 1906 Metalwork and Repousse, and Bookbinding and Decoration from 1907. In 1909 she became the head of the Needlework and Embroidery Section, adding Bookbinding and Decoration and Decorative Leatherwork to these responsibilities in 1910. In 1912 she finally became the Director of Studies in the Needlecraft-Decorative Art Studios. In addition during her time at the Glasgow School of Art Ann Macbeth also taught classes in Ceramic Decoration and China Painting