Discovery & Participation Trainee; FTC

The Edinburgh International Festival is looking for a passionate Discovery & Participation Trainee to join the team. We want you to help us deliver this unparalleled celebration of the performing arts, which brings some of the most exciting and creative artists working today to audiences from around the world.

EIF is an equal opportunity employer, we value diversity and applications from candidates of all communities and backgrounds. Inclusive culture is the foundation for a successful workplace, this is a key focus for us across our staff, our artists, and our audiences.

To increase the diversity of our staff, our recruitment includes the Rooney Rule - regarding ethnicity – and Disability Confident Scheme for interviews. For more information go to our website.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone starting out in a career in creative engagement who is passionate about the performing arts and working with people. The trainee will join the Discovery & Participation team, who work at the heart of the International Festival to open doors, build relationships, and offer meaningful, valued, world-expanding experiences that will be remembered for years to come.

You’ll work across Youth and Community projects, supporting the team to deliver exciting programmes and events while gaining valuable skills and insight into the sector. The role includes close support from the Youth Connections Manager and Community Connections Manager to create a tailored plan that develops your skills, knowledge, and professional confidence.

• Training to develop skills whilst working in a busy, supportive, fun team.
• Meet people across the Edinburgh International Festival and discover how different roles and departments collaborate to make the Festival happen.
• The chance to see performances in the Festival from across the globe.
• Make local and international connections in the industry.
• Protecting Vulnerable Groups disclosure scheme membership & child protection training.

• Work with the Youth Connections Manager and Community Connections Manager to support Discovery & Participation projects year-round and during the 2026 Festival.
• Handle research and administration tasks and support with communications with schools and communities.
• Assist with year-round workshops and projects in schools and community settings and in our Festival home, The Hub.
• Assist at Discovery & Participation events during the Festival as needed.
• Represent the International Festival’s values in all work.
• Carry out other reasonable duties as required.

Learn about our Employee Benefits

Closing date for applications:
Monday 2 February 2026, 12:00pm

Funded by The City of Edinburgh Council and Creative Scotland.
Registered charity number SC004694.

• Status:
  
  Temporary, full time (2 March to 31 October)
• Start date:
  
  2 March 2026
• Salary:£22,932 pro rata, rising to £24,479 by 1 May 2026