At a Glance
- Tasks: Watch and review animated short films, sharing your opinions and scoring them.
- Company: Cardiff Animation Festival, Wales’ only global animation festival.
- Benefits: Gain curation experience, get credited on the website, and enjoy free access to CAF events.
- Other info: Join a vibrant community of filmmakers and animation enthusiasts!
- Why this job: Perfect for animation lovers wanting to dive into film curation and festival programming.
- Qualifications: No experience needed, just a passion for animation and commitment to deadlines.
Cardiff Animation Festival is Wales’ only global animation festival – a four-day celebration of all things animated, taking place at venues across Cardiff and online every April. Now in its ninth year, the festival will include feature films, workshops, talks, socials, panels, live events, and, of course, curated short film programmes. The festival grew out of a love of animated short films, and the festival screens nearly 100 shorts each year.
This role is ideal for animation fans, people working in animation or looking to work in animation, filmmakers, curators, artists, recent graduates, and people interested in festival programming and curation.
CAF are looking for people who:
- Love watching animation
- Enjoy discussing films and sharing opinions about them
- Can commit to watching and reviewing films on schedule and meeting deadlines
- Watching 1–2 hours of animated short films per week assigned on FilmFreeway between 1 July to 30 October (excluding any weeks you’re not available)
- Scoring films according to a set of criteria set by CAF
- Writing your opinions on each film
No experience needed, just a love of animation!
Volunteer pre-selectors will:
- Gain experience in film festival curation
- Be credited on CAF’s website as a pre-selector
- Receive a guest pass for CAF 2027 in person or online, providing free access to CAF events
The closing date for this position is 22/06/2026 at 17:00.
Volunteer Pre-Selectors employer: Box
Cardiff Animation Festival is an exceptional employer for those passionate about animation and film curation. As a volunteer pre-selector, you will immerse yourself in the vibrant world of animation while gaining invaluable experience in festival programming. With a supportive work culture that celebrates creativity and collaboration, you'll have the opportunity to connect with fellow animation enthusiasts and contribute to a unique cultural event in the heart of Cardiff.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Pre-Selectors
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the festival inside out! Watch previous years' films and engage with the community on social media. This will help you understand what they value and give you a leg up in discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend local animation events or online meet-ups to connect with fellow enthusiasts and industry professionals. You never know who might have a lead on opportunities or advice.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When discussing films, let your enthusiasm shine through. Share your thoughts on social media or blogs to demonstrate your commitment to animation and festival programming.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Pre-Selectors
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Animation:Let us know why you love animation! Share your favourite films or what inspires you about the medium. This is your chance to show us your enthusiasm and how it aligns with our festival's vibe.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your thoughts are easy to follow. Avoid fluff and get straight to the point – we want to see your genuine interest!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Even if you don’t have direct experience, mention any related activities or skills. Whether it's discussing films with friends or curating a playlist, let us know how your background connects to this role.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of all applications and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Box
✨Know Your Animation
Make sure you brush up on your animation knowledge before the interview. Familiarise yourself with popular animated films, directors, and trends in the industry. This will help you engage in meaningful discussions and show your passion for the role.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Let your love for animation shine through during the interview. Share your favourite films and why they resonate with you. This is a great way to connect with the interviewers and demonstrate that you're genuinely excited about the opportunity.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Criteria
Understand the scoring criteria set by Cardiff Animation Festival. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach reviewing films based on these criteria. This shows that you’re not just a fan but also capable of critical thinking and analysis.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask the interviewers about the festival and its programming. This not only shows your interest but also gives you insight into what they value in a pre-selector. It’s a win-win!
