Festival TV maker - full training provided

Festival TV Makers 2025 – A Unique Autumn Package

This autumn, step into the world of purposeful media production with WORLDwrite’s exclusive volunteer opportunity: become a Festival TV Maker and help film the dynamic Battle of Ideas Festival in Westminster, London. Whether you're a seasoned filmmaker or have never picked up a camera, this is your chance to learn, contribute, and create something that matters.

The Battle of Ideas Festival is no ordinary event. With over 100 challenging debates and discussions on politics, economics, education, science, tech, and culture, its motto is "free speech allowed" and it puts serious public discussion centre stage. Since 2005, WORLDwrite has proudly been the festival’s media partner—and this year, we want you on the crew.

As a Festival TV Maker, you’ll receive practical, hands-on training with professional camera equipment, sound, and lighting. You’ll help produce over 50 high-quality debate videos, shared online for wide public access. Every volunteer will be credited for their work, a valuable asset for your CV or media career. You’ll also get a full festival pass, and local travel expenses are covered.

Key Dates & Sessions:

Wednesday 10th September at 7.30pm (Zoom) Kick off with our Introductory Event, where you'll meet the team and hear what it takes to bring the Battle of Ideas Festival to life. This behind-the-scenes briefing helps you decide if this exciting opportunity is for you.

Saturday 20th, Sunday 21st, Saturday 27th or Sunday 28th September (10am–6pm) Attend one of our Face-to-Face Camera Training Days. Learn how to operate cameras, sound gear, and lighting. These sessions prepare you for working on a fast-paced live film shoot.

Wednesday 1st – Thursday 9th October (2–4.30pm or 7–9.30pm daily) You’ll attend three focused Debate Shooting Practice Sessions to develop confidence and precision before the festival weekend. Choose from multiple time slots that work for your schedule.

Sunday 12th October (10am–6pm) Join our Festival Logistics Day with the full crew. Finalise your rota, understand room layouts and setups, and collect your festival T-shirt and programme. Lunch is provided, and we may squeeze in a final practice.

Wednesday 15th October (10–12.30, 2–4.30 or 7–9.30pm) or Thursday 16th October (10–12.30pm)
Attend one Film Gear Preparation Session. Check equipment, test sound and batteries, and help label and pack gear for filming.

Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th October (8am–7pm) This is the main event! Over two full days, you’ll film debates, capture audience reactions, and work with a professional crew. You’ll also have time to attend sessions and explore the festival. Lunch and refreshments will be provided, and local travel costs covered.

Wednesday 22nd October at 7.30pm (Zoom)
Wrap things up at our Post-Festival Reflection Session. Share your experiences, offer feedback, and explore how you can stay involved in WORLDwrite’s future projects.

Applications are open now – we don’t select you, you select us. But spaces are limited, and once we’re full, we’re full! Apply at: https://www.worldwrite.org.uk/volunteering

Festival details and discounted non-crew tickets:
 https://www.battleofideas.org.uk/programme/overview/
 Watch past debates filmed by WORLDwrite volunteers:
 www.youtube.com/c/worldwrite

WORLDwrite Charity No: 1060869
 The WORLDwrite Centre, 201 Millfields Road, London E5 0AL
 📧 world.write@btconnect.com | ☎ 0208 985 5435

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.