At a Glance
- Tasks: Watch and evaluate short films, contributing to the festival's selection process.
- Company: SET Film Festival, a vibrant grassroots arts organisation in London.
- Benefits: Free festival pass, credits in the programme, and potential paid screening proposal.
- Other info: Flexible remote work with key in-person meetings in Peckham.
- Why this job: Dive into the world of film curation and shape an exciting festival experience.
- Qualifications: Passion for experimental film and strong communication skills.
London (Hybrid)
Salary: Voluntary with opportunity for paid screening proposal
Commitment: 36 hours between June and December 2026
Working closely with the curatorial team, pre‑selectors will view and evaluate submitted films, contributing to early‑stage selection conversations and helping to shape this year’s programme. Pre‑selectors will watch and assess approximately 12 hours of submitted short films (under 30 minutes) using a shared viewing platform. While film viewing is completed flexibly/remotely, this role requires in‑person attendance for programming meetings at our arts and social club, SET Social, in Peckham, to discuss the selection.
Responsibilities:
- Watch and track 12 hours of assigned content, keeping detailed notes in line with festival guidelines.
- Complete first‑round viewings by 22 June and second‑round viewings by 20 July.
- Contributing clear, thoughtful programme notes or copy for selected films, to be completed by 30 August 2026.
- Flag selected works for further discussion by the core curatorial team.
- Attend curatorial meetings at SET Social on Tuesday 23 June and Tuesday 21 July 2026.
- Supporting the festival’s promotion where possible.
- Attending a debrief and evaluation session on 15 December 2026 (in person or remotely).
Person Specification:
- An interest in experimental, independent, or artist‑led film practices.
- A careful and considered approach to viewing and evaluation.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- The ability to commit approximately 36 hours in total across the cycle (June‑December).
- Ability to work collaboratively within a team and engage with diverse communities.
- Based in London (or able to travel to Peckham) for key meeting dates.
- While desirable, no prior film programming and curatorial experience is required; SET welcome those looking to develop their skills or gain insight into programming practices.
All pre‑selectors will be credited in the printed festival programme and receive a free pass to the 2026 festival. At the end of the process, pre‑selectors have the opportunity to submit a screening proposal. If selected, this work is paid at a fee of £150, with an additional £75 if you choose to host the screening or Q&A.
About SET Film Festival:
SET Film Festival is an independent grassroots festival for contemporary, artist, and archival film, run by SET, a London‑based arts organisation and registered charity. Founded in 2023 and curated by Amina Ali, Ellie Dobbs and Verity Monroe, the festival presents experimental practices and emerging voices outside conventional exhibition and distribution contexts. Held each November at our arts and social club, SET Social, in Peckham, the festival unfolds across a month of weekly film nights. Screening programmes are shaped through an open call, bringing documentary, narrative, and artists’ moving‑image practices into dialogue alongside international features. This year, the festival will run from 5 November to 3 December 2026.
To apply: Please email filmfestival@setspace.uk with the subject line ‘Pre‑Selector Application’. Applications must include a CV, a short covering letter, and a short response to a film you’ve recently seen (up to 250 words / max one A4 side). The closing date for this position is 31/05/2026 at 17:00.
Volunteer Film Pre-Selector — Free Festival Pass employer: Box
SET Film Festival is an exceptional employer for those passionate about film and the arts, offering a unique opportunity to engage with experimental and independent cinema in a collaborative environment. Located in Peckham, London, our work culture fosters creativity and inclusivity, providing volunteers with valuable insights into programming practices while contributing to a vibrant community event. With the chance to gain hands-on experience, receive festival credits, and potentially earn from screening proposals, SET is dedicated to nurturing talent and supporting personal growth within the arts sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Film Pre-Selector — Free Festival Pass
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the festival and its vibe! Watch previous films from SET Film Festival to understand what they love. This will help you tailor your discussions and show that you're genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend film events or workshops in London, especially those related to independent and experimental films. Meeting people in the industry can open doors and give you insights that might just land you the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared for those programming meetings! Jot down your thoughts on the films you watch and be ready to discuss them. Clear communication is key, so practice articulating your ideas and opinions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about being part of the SET Film Festival team!
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Film Pre-Selector — Free Festival Pass
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Covering Letter:Your covering letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to express your passion for experimental and independent film, and how you can contribute to the festival. Keep it concise but engaging – we want to see your personality!
Show Off Your Film Knowledge:When responding to the film you've recently seen, be thoughtful and insightful. We’re looking for your unique perspective, so don’t hold back! Highlight what resonated with you and why it’s relevant to our festival.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects any relevant experience or skills that align with the role. Even if you don’t have direct film programming experience, showcase any teamwork, communication, or analytical skills that could be beneficial to us.
Follow Application Instructions:Double-check that you’ve included everything we’ve asked for: CV, covering letter, and your film response. Send your application to the right email with the correct subject line. It’s the little details that count!
How to prepare for a job interview at Box
✨Know Your Films
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of experimental and independent films. Familiarise yourself with recent trends and notable works in these genres. This will not only show your passion but also help you engage in meaningful conversations about film during the interview.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask about the festival and its curatorial process. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and the organisation. Questions about how they select films or what they look for in submissions can spark a great dialogue.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since excellent written and verbal communication skills are key for this role, be prepared to discuss your previous experiences where you’ve effectively communicated ideas. You might even want to bring along a sample of your writing or notes from a film you’ve evaluated to showcase your analytical skills.
✨Be Ready to Collaborate
Highlight your ability to work within a team and engage with diverse communities. Share examples of past collaborative projects or experiences where you’ve successfully worked with others. This will reassure them that you’re a good fit for their curatorial team.
