Frequently Asked Questions

Your department may need assistance - why not get in touch with them and see how you can lend a hand. Jack McGowan in the English department is currently looking for volunteers to help out . Interested parties should email Jack.McGowan@warwick.ac.uk.

What should I wear?

Along with your Festival T-Shirt, you should wear something comfortable, that will keep you warm outside. Please do not wear jogging bottoms or ripped jeans. If you'd like to wear a long sleeved T-Shirt under your Festival T-Shirt, you are welcome to. You'll be given a clear poncho to wear in case of rain.

Will I receive my uniform free of charge?

Yes, you will receive a T-Shirt, lanyard and poncho free of charge. You may wish to wear a long sleeved T-Shirt under your Festival T-Shirt to keep you warm.

If I’m working outside and it rains, what should I do?

The festival will continue, no matter the weather. In the event of rain, cover any flyers and other materials that could be damaged by the rain and put on a brave face!

What should I do when I arrive for my shift?

When you arrive for your shift, you should go to the Volunteers' Room (exact location TBC) to sign in, collect your lanyard and receive a quick briefing. You should aim to arrive about 15 minutes before your shift begins.

Will there be a place for me to leave my belongings?

There will be a secure location where you can leave your belongings.

Will I receive any refreshments?

In the Volunteers' Room, there will be light refreshments throughout the festival. Feel free to help yourself. You will need to bring lunch as usual.

Will I be paid for volunteering?

You will not be paid by the Festival of the Imagination for volunteering. Members of staff should confirm details of pay with their line manager.

Will this experience appear on my HEAR report?

Yes, as it is counted as part of your Warwick Volunteers hours, your time at the Festival of the Imagination will appear on your HEAR report, though not explicitly named.

Do I need to be DBS checked?

No, you do not need to be DBS checked to volunteer. If you have had a recent DBS check, you're welcome to let us know though.

Can I tie this experience in to my Warwick Volunteers activities?

Yes, volunteering for the Festival of the Imagination will count towards your Warwick Volunteers Certificate and subsequently appear on your HEAR report.

Who is my team leader?

During your training session, and on the day of the festival, you will receive details of Festival of the Imagination Team Leaders.

Who should I contact if I have a problem before the festival?

If you have a problem and need to rearrange your volunteering time, email Project Officer Emily Dunford at E.Dunford@warwick.ac.uk.

How should I answer visitors’ questions?

You should use your existing knowledge of the University to answer visitors' questions. You'll receive a list of FAQs specific to the Festival of the Imagination at your training session. Remember to remain polite and show that you're willing to help. If you don't know the answer to a question, just be honest.

Can I choose which venue I work in?

No, we will assign volunteers to venues at random. If you have any access requirements, let us know in the application form and we will find a venue to suit you.

What should I do in the event of an emergency?

If you are working in Warwick Arts Centre and there is an emergency, do not attempt to lead visitors out of the building. All responsibility in this situation lies with the Warwick Arts Centre Stewards and House Managers, who have extensive training in emergency procedures.

You will receive information about emergency procedures elsewhere on your training day.

When are the training sessions?

The Staff training session will take place on Monday 28th September, 12-1pm, in MS.03. The Student training session will be on 9th October from 3.30-4.30pm in B2.02. Postgraduates should attend the Student training session. Attendance at training sessions is compulsory. If you are unable to attend yours, but could attend the other, let us know in the application form.

Can I work more than one shift?

We'd rather volunteers worked for just one shift, but if your volunteering forms part of a scholarship requirement or similar, let us know. We can arrange for you to be given more than one shift in these circumstances.

Can I work half a shift? Can I leave early?

We'd rather our volunteers were available for the entirety of their shift, as each shift is short. If you need to leave a few minutes early to attend an appointment or get to class, let us know.

Do I have to work both days of the festival?

No, you only need to volunteer for one shift over the course of the festival.

What will I receive in return for volunteering?

In return for your time, you will receive a Festival of the Imagination T-Shirt, a lanyard and light refreshments throughout the day.

I have a query not answered on the list. Can you help?

Email Project Officer Emily at E.Dunford@warwick.ac.uk with any queries.