EIFF is pleased to announce that our Internship Programme is now open. The Internship Programme, supported by Aberdeen Standard Investments, aims to provide opportunities to people of all backgrounds, whilst paying them the real living wage. EIFF is especially interested in attracting people that are new to film, festivals and events.

Juliet Tweedie, EIFF Head of Development said:

“EIFF’s Internship Programme is a unique scheme providing focused and bespoke training and mentoring support so participants can gain cultural work experience and transferable skills. We’re committed to making sure these opportunities are accessible to a wide range of people, and are proud to be a Real Living Wage employer. It’s a brilliant opportunity to be part of the EIFF team and discover the many different career opportunities in festivals and events.”

12 internships are offered for up to 3 months across all of EIFF’s key departments (including Programming, Education and Learning, Development, Guest Services, Marketing, Festival Administration and Industry and Talent Development), showcasing the diverse range of roles available within the film exhibition sector and wider cultural sector.

All interns have a mentor (a member of EIFF’s core staff) who will clarify and agree learning objectives and outcomes with them, organise training and support throughout their placement, and review progress fortnightly and on completion of the role. After taking part, interns will have increased confidence, a clear understanding of how festivals work, experience of project working, developing office-based skills and of delivering a festival, increased confidence in working with customers, colleagues and clients, and a greater understanding of the career pathways available to them and how to access them.

Jill Maxwell, Head of Sponsorship at Aberdeen Standard Investments said:

Being headquartered in Edinburgh we’re proud to be associated with the Edinburgh International Film Festival and this fantastic internship programme. We would encourage anyone who has a slight inkling of interest in film, festivals and events to apply, as it really is an opportunity like no other. Experience gained through programmes like this prove to be so rewarding in future years, standing you in good stead for a successful career.”

Niamh McKeown, Previous EIFF Intern said:

“I took part in the EIFF internship programme in 2018 and I strongly believe it was a formative experience for me. Having the opportunity to work behind the scenes alongside all departments gave me an invaluable insight into the planning and execution of a film festival. I was supported to learn new skills and overcome challenges while feeling encouraged to engage with the programme and watch great films. My time at EIFF was the kick-starter to my career but ultimately (and most importantly) it was a place where I found my tribe.”

For more information on EIFF internships and how to apply, please visit: https://www.edfilmfest.org.uk/about-us/jobs

The 74th edition of EIFF runs from 17 – 28 June 2020.

The full programme will be announced on 27 May 2020.