About the CATALYST Traineeship 

Creating equitable access to the industry is a core Donmar value and we want to ensure that the next generation of leading arts administrators is diverse. CATALYST is a professional development programme for those who have been historically underrepresented at the Donmar and within the sector. Through this 12-month programme, we create bespoke experiences for talent from the Global Majority, welcoming a range of voices and skills. With organisation-wide investment, each opportunity provides focused mentorship and will serve to expand your knowledge of the theatre sector at large. 

No previous experience of working in theatre is required but a demonstrated desire to learn, and an interest in arts administration and participation is essential. 

About the Role 

The Participation Trainee role at the Donmar Warehouse is a hands-on opportunity to gain insight and experience within the theatre industry by supporting the Donmar’s work with schools and community groups. As part of the Participation team, the Trainee will contribute to the planning and delivery of a wide range of creative projects, including the Local Performance Programme, Take the Stage, My Future, Pathways and the Schools’ Tour. They will assist with logistics, administration, and communication, working closely with teachers, young people, freelance theatre-makers, and community partners.

Day-to-day responsibilities will include maintaining project schedules, organising meetings and events, managing departmental inboxes, and supporting the smooth running of Participation projects. A key part of the role will be organising the Local Performance Programme, acting as the main point of contact for schools and holding this project as their own to practice and develop core skills. The Participation Trainee will also contribute to planning processes, and support the creation of content for marketing and documentation purposes.

By the end of the Traineeship, the Participation Trainee will have built a strong foundation in communication, project management, collaboration, and arts administration, equipping them for a vibrant future career in creative engagement or arts education. 

*This role is designed for those who wish to pursue a career in arts administration. The role does not require facilitation skills or include facilitation opportunities.

TERMS 

Salary: £25,643 per annum 

Terms: Fixed-term, 12-month contract ideally starting in October 2025 

Working pattern:

• Core hours 10am - 6pm, Monday to Friday (35 hours, with 5 hours for unpaid lunch) 
• Flexible working policy
• Due to the nature of working in a producing theatre, some work outside of core office hours is required. Time off in Lieu (TOIL) will be given to make up for any out of hours work. 

Application Deadline: 10am, Monday 29 September

First Interviews: Monday 6 October

Second Interviews: Thursday 9 October