Welcome to the PI Academy
Professional Development — for Interpreters, Translators and Deaf Performers
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine and expand your skills, PI Training Academy offers a dynamic range of courses and workshops designed to help you grow with confidence.Our training is created by experts and tailored for professionals who want to deepen their craft and thrive in specialist domains, from music, sport, and comedy to political interpreting, media work, and behind-the-scenes working with Deaf professionals, co-working, and team dynamics and much more.We are here to support your journey.
All courses are approved by the NRCPD CPD scheme, ensuring they contribute directly to your professional development record.
Performance Interpreting was honoured to be inducted into the Signature Hall of Fame. Recognising our continued commitment to excellence, creativity, and meaningful access for the Deaf community
To maintain the highest standards of quality, PI works exclusively with registered sign language interpreters who have a minimum of three years’ post-qualification experience. We encourage those new to the profession to focus first on developing strong, versatile interpreting skills. Performance interpreting is a specialist field — one that depends on a solid foundation of general interpreting experience above all else.
If you’re exploring performance interpreting, use this website to browse our courses, and sign up to our volunteer list. We recommend gaining broad experience, working with NRCPD mentors or Supervisors, and developing core skills before specialising.
For those ready to step into performance, we suggest taking the following pathway:
→ Behind The Sparkle - The Reality of Performance Interpreting
↳ Introduction to Music Interpreting
↳ Expression
↳ Moves into Grooves
↳ Festival Interpreting
“It’s great to share ideas in a group with such varied experience and has really helped me feel more confident about exploring song translation.”
“Having the space to be free to explore those moments which become intimidating when on site was such a fantastic opportunity to experience.”
“Working with Performance Interpreting has been such a supportive journey. Beginning as a volunteer, attending courses and finally being on festival teams.”
Something you'd like to ask? Let’s chat.
If you have a question about one of our courses, need help choosing the right training, or want to discuss tailored support, we’re here to help.Fill in our quick contact form — someone from the team will be in touch.
Performance Interpreting (PI) is a trusted leader in the world of BSL access and interpreter training. As proud Signature Hall of Fame inductees, we’ve been recognised nationally for our pioneering work in shaping what is now a thriving industry — one that puts Deaf audiences, interpreters, and artistic excellence at its heart.Founded with a vision of inclusion, creativity, and professionalism, PI has provided access at the UK’s biggest festivals, most iconic tours, and landmark cultural moments. Through our training arm — PI Academy — we’re now passing that experience on to the next generation of interpreters.
Training Courses
We provide a safe, inclusive, and inspiring space where you can explore, experiment, and enhance your professional practice. Each course is designed to stretch your creativity, strengthen your technique, and support your journey towards excellence, ultimately expanding and improving quality access for the Deaf community.All courses are approved by the NRCPD CPD scheme, ensuring they contribute directly to your professional development record. Train for real rooms, not hypotheticals. Our courses turn skill into stagecraft for music stages, political rooms, football grounds, drag nights, and everything that can shift in between.
Each course listing includes available dates, locations, and the number of remaining spaces. Simply select the course you’re interested in and complete the short application form. You will also be able to share your communication preferences and access needs so we can make sure the experience works for you.
At PI Academy, we’re always evolving — offering varied, meaningful learning experiences that build confidence, deepen professional practice, and improve access for the Deaf community.*Courses can be paid upfront or spread over three months with Klarna.
Our Courses, Workshops and Retreats
Available Now
Coming Soon
Looking for something not listed?
If there's a specific area of training you're interested in that isn't currently offered, we’d love to hear from you – your suggestion could shape a future workshop.
Interested in local training?
If you'd like to see this workshop delivered in your area, we’re happy to travel – sessions can be arranged where there’s sufficient interest. Please get in touch to discuss possibilities.
Mentoring for Performance & Sport: interpreters, translators and Deaf performers
One-to-one guidance. Practical skills. Support that adapts to you.
Mentorship at PI Training Academy gives you access to experienced performance interpreters who know the demands of the stage and the industry. These aren’t general conversations — they’re focused, practical sessions built around your goals, whether that’s preparing for a specific project, sharpening your style, or building long-term confidence.Mentoring is optional, but we recommend it for interpreters at all stages. Skills and creativity keep evolving — and so should you.
What You Can Expect
✧ A mentor chosen for their specialist experience in areas like music, sport, theatre, movement, or emotional expression✧ Honest, constructive feedback on your work✧ Support shaped around your goals, challenges, and preferred genres✧ A safe space to develop confidence and experiment with new approaches
How It Works
-> Initial call/session: explore your goals, genre preferences, strengths, and challenges-> Flexible format: remote or in-person, using discussion, video feedback, or live observation-> Tailored focus: one-off sessions for a project, or ongoing mentoring for deeper development-> Fees: set by each mentor, typically within the supervision range (£45–£60 per session)
*Mentoring is independent of PI and does not guarantee work — but the skills you gain will strengthen your freelance practice across any setting.
Explore our mentors below and find the guidance that fits your journey.
Linking to PathwaysSome interpreters may also be invited to mentoring as part of our Personalised Pathways programme, which identifies specific areas for growth and provides structured routes forward.
Our Mentors
Jacqui Beckford
Theatre
Rehearsal room
Live music
Festivals
Poetry
Reflective Practice
Paula Cox
Festivals
Live Music
Tour Work
Musicality
Stage Confidence
Abigail Gorman
Translation
Performance
Media/TV
Reflective Practice
Stacey Green
Theatre
Dance
Live Music
Integrated Performance
Movement Practice
Karl Llorca
Theatre
Live Events
Drag
Queer Community
Comedy
Susan Merrick
Live Music
Festivals
Performance Art
Live Talks / Events
Award shows.
Sarah Jane O'Regan
Live Music
Translations
TV Presenting
Reflective Practice
Vicky Pannell
Theatre
Live Music
Festivals
Media
Reflective Practice
Daniel Roberts
Live music
Festivals
Cabaret / Drag
Poetry
Spoken word
Sammie Vanterpool
Live music
Festivals
Formal conferences
Research
Academic
Karen Ward-Welch
Festivals
Live Music
Theatre
Confidence & Creative Expression
Want To Join Our Team Of Mentors?
Follow the link below to submit your bio
- Professional Supervision -
We recommend that all interpreters explore professional supervision, such as through Labyrinth 360 Supervision. Supervision is distinct from mentoring — it isn’t about developing interpreting techniques, but about reflecting on the emotional, ethical, and professional dimensions of your work. It provides a confidential space to process experiences, maintain boundaries, and build resilience, helping interpreters sustain both their wellbeing and the quality of their practice.
Jacqui Beckford
Areas of Expertise
Theatre | Rehearsal Room | Live Music | Festivals | Poetry | Reflective Practice
About Me
My career in BSL interpreted theatre began in the early 1990's with Graeae theatre company, where providing access at drama workshops led on to show?By 1999, I had undertaken 3 national tours with Graeae, as an integrated performer/interpreter, in the 4 week rehearsal process honing my craft as a Dramaturg. Through Graeae I acquired my Equity membership.In my youth I was awarded an Inner London Education Authority scholarship to study contemporary dance at Laban. This, I believe, put me in good stead as an embodiologist influencing how I depict characters true to their essence, whether in a live production (or imagined as in musical lyrics).I have won two awardsCatalyst for establishing Interpreters of Colour Network
How I Can Help
I would like to support my peers with building their confidence, creative expression and resilience in the performance domain.
Other Roles / Credentials
8 years as a Governor of a girls secondary school. I have sat on the board of two theatre companies. I was on the board of DEWA, Deaf Ethnic Womens Association for 3 years
"I have learned over the years that when one's mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear."
Rosa Parks
Paula Cox
Areas of Expertise
Theatre | Rehearsal Room | Live Music | Festivals | Poetry | Reflective Practice
About Me
With over 18 years of experience, I’ve interpreted at major UK festivals and concerts for artists like Coldplay, Adele, Elton John, and Barbra Streisand. I focus on bringing emotional connection and energy to every performance, specialising in genres from rock and indie to pop and soul.
How I Can Help
I bring first-hand knowledge of festival logistics, tour interpreting dynamics, and the importance of musicality in interpretation. I love supporting interpreters to grow their stage presence, confidence, and ability to deliver authentic, engaging access to live music.
Abigail Gorman
Areas of Expertise
Translation | Performance | Media/TV | Reflective Practice
Top Career Highlights
Eurovision, Strictly Come Dancing, Paralympics/Olympics, and Parliament TV
About Me
I am a Deaf translator and performance interpreter with a background spanning human rights, politics, broadcasting, and the arts. These experiences shape how I see language - as something deeply connected to culture, identity, and power. They influence how I analyse and convey meaning, recognising that language is never neutral; it carries emotion, culture, and intent. For me, translation is not just about accuracy but about connection - finding ways for ideas and emotions to be shared across languages and experiences. My approach is grounded in empathy, reflection, and lived experience, expressing meaning through space, rhythm, and emotion.
How I Can Help
As a mentor, I offer a space that feels open, honest, and supportive. My background in human rights, politics, the arts, and translation has shown me that everyone’s path is different and that learning grows through reflection and lived experience. I see mentoring as a shared process - a chance to think together about what our work means, not just how it’s done. Whether new or experienced, I aim to support people with care, patience, and understanding.
"Lived experience is not just knowledge - it’s the lens through which meaning becomes real."
Stacey Green
Areas of Expertise
Theatre | Dance | Live Music | Integrated Performance | Movement Practice
Top Career Highlights
Giovanni Pernice's dance shows- included in the show as a performance interpreter touring for the past 4 years and meeting so many deaf audience members nationwide.
Scissor Sisters Concert (with Performance Interpreting), almost 20 years after touring with the band as a professional dancer, it was a surreal experience.
Glastonbury (BBC/Red Bee)- In-vision interpreter, I said I’d never do interpreting on the TV, but never say never.
About Me
My background prior to and alongside qualifying as a Registered Sign Language Interpreter in 2014, is in the Performing Arts world as a professional dancer, circus performer, choreographer and movement director. I still work as a creative, mainly in theatre currently, but I have an extensive career in the music industry, fashion, corporate events and festivals. In addition to this I still teach and facilitate dance and movement workshops for young people and professional artists. Over the past 5 years my career as a RSLI has developed and I found my creative world and interpreting world merge with the encouragement of many deaf creatives, I have been integrated into shows and have also been part of a creative team with deaf and hearing colleagues collaborating on bilingual shows, this has also been a career highlight.
How I Can Help
Preparing and developing for performance and endurance.
As an interpreter working in the performance domain, I recognise the challenges of combining BSL with other movement practices to execute a whole body interpretation. As a creative, I collaborate with actors and performers to support in coaching their movement for character work, stage presence, storytelling etc, I believe the principles I use are transferable in the interpreting profession too. Other key elements I can support with include: self-awareness using various techniques, exploring your unique physicality, musicality and finding your lyrical language flow.Insight into various areas of expertise e.g. Support in navigating each area, use of specific vocabulary, etiquette, how to work with other professionals, preparation that meets your needs, and mapping out the whole process.
Other Roles / Credentials
BA hons in Dance, Movement Directors Association
"Go with the flow"
Karl Llorca
Areas of Expertise
Theatre | Live Events | Drag | Queer Community | Comedy
Top Career Highlights
For a confirmed drag fan, interpreting on more than one occasion for my drag idol Bianca Del Rio is a special highlight. In the musical theatre world my ultimate favourite show is Les Mis and I never wanted to interpret it as it was ‘mine’ to enjoy, however doing it was so amazing and rewarding. Working with Eddie Izzard on a live comedy show was tough but one that I’ll keep as a cherished memory. The West End is held as a mecca for us musical theatre fans so doing my first show there was simply mind-blowing.
About Me
I cut my teeth on performance interpreting working in small local live events where there were a multitude of performances that were done without any preparation. Learning those skills to cope and give a performance has been the keystone to my approach. The training I’ve since had has added stage craft and performance nuances that allow me to tackle difficult content and performers and their managers with professionalism. I’ve been qualified for nearly 20 years and am still on that journey of discovery and learning.
How I Can Help
I find my skills lie in unpacking meaning, looking at intent and how you can go from literal meaning to a more visual rendition ‘show me don’t tell me’. The art of performance with your body and selling that story is something I love to explore.
Other Roles / Credentials
A1/A2 Assessor, Mental Health First Aider
"Tell Me and I Forget; Teach Me and I May Remember; Involve Me and I Learn"
A gifted deaf person used this quote in all of their training and I think it speaks volumes
Susan Merrick
Areas of Expertise
Live Music | Festivals | Performance Art | Live Talks/Events | Award Shows
Top Career Highlights
There are so many! But if I am forced to narrow it down then interpreting for Pink and Gwen Stefani at BST Hyde Park 2023 - these performances were electric!
Working on the Billie Eilish Tour 2025
Each Download Festival I've been a part of, providing access to so many customers and for so many amazing bands (2021-2025)
Florence and the Machine 2017 and 2019
Linkin Park 2024 and 2025
About Me
I've been working as a BSL/English interpreter now for 20 years, and fully qualified for 18. I have worked in legal, community, education, health, conference and many more areas within that time. I have been working in the field of performance for over 10 years and my approach to performance work is ensuring that access for deaf customers is the number one priority.
For me this comes with a combination of good communication skills, a varied work load and client base, strong coping strategies, a proactive approach to prep and organisation, a very strong understanding of effective co-working as well as ensuring skills in performance interpreting are up-to-date!
How I Can Help
Time management
Work load
Considering RSI/posture issue
Helping to think about translations, song intentions and audience expectations
How to spend prep time
Being a good coworker
Being flexible and adaptable with a good attitude, whilst also ensuring good access is a priority and that you are able to do your job well.
Other Roles / Credentials
MA Fine Art (performance, visual art and film)
"Attitude and prep are key!"
Sarah Jane O'Regan
Areas of Expertise
Live Music | Translations | TV Presenting | Reflective Practice
Top Career Highlights
Late Late Toy Show on RTE1, Oasis and Coldplay
About Me
As a qualified Deaf Interpreter, I use my lived experience as being the audience and an interpreter to shape my practice. As part of my D-CS, I dive deep first in to the story of the piece that I am interpreting, understanding the artist and their message, the emotions of the lyrics and music, the piece de la resistance is the Deaf eyes, it shapes how I deliver it. Not just how music sounds but how it can look. Every part of my body is portal into the world of music. Over the years I have developed strategies especially in live performance that deal with the unexpected. Music is a passion of mine, its my true love.
How I Can Help
Being a performance interpreter is a vulnerable space to be in, therefore trust and respect are two qualities that I value the most. I can offer constructive and honest feedback which will guide your practice, how you deliver and reflect. I enjoy being creative with translations and finding that balance between literal and free translation, together we can merge our choices of translation. I can support feeder interpreters to develop strategies on working with Deaf interpreters/performers.
"Access is music to my senses."
Vicky Pannell
Areas of Expertise
Festivals | Live Music | Theatre | Supervision | Media
Top Career Highlights
Interpreting for the Foo fighters at Glastonbury
Muse Live tour interpreting
Providing access for deaf people at Download Festival for a number of years
About Me
I have been a Performance and theatre interpreter for 16 years, with a particular focus on rock and indie music, although I am experienced in all genres. I have interpreted at a number of high profile events and gigs as well as for theatre tours and on the West End.I enjoy the dynamic work of interpreting for live performance, and approach each job with a determination to provide an equitable experience for Deaf music goers. For me - music is a feeling, and I aim to portray this feeling in every performance.
How I Can Help
As a mentor, I’m here to support and guide you on your journey to becoming a performance interpreter. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to develop your skills further, I can share my experience, offer practical advice, and help you navigate the challenges of interpreting in theatre and live music settings and to understand the unique demands of performance interpretingMy goal is to help you grow your skills, build your confidence, and inspire you to succeed in creating accessible, engaging experiences for all audiences.
Other Roles / Credentials
Qualified Assessor & Qualified Supervisor.
"If you wait until the timing is perfect to try something new, you will be waiting forever. Just start - the perfect time is now."
Daniel Roberts
Areas of Expertise
Live Music | Festivals | Cabaret / Drag | Poetry | Spoken Word
Top Career Highlights
1. Seeing a young deaf man access a festival for the first time, I will never forget his joy. It made Bestival one of my favourite festivals.
2. Interpreting local community prides - they always remind me of the importance of our relationship with the community.
3. Hurts - a band I love, interpreting their set at Glastonbury was an absolute joy.
About Me
I have been a performance interpreter since 2008, having interpreted at various festivals, concerts, comedy gigs, prides and smaller community events. I tend to undertake 8-12 performance jobs a year, which gives me sufficient time to prepare between assignments. Performance interpreting is as much about the preparation as about the performance, and I tend to spend at least 2 weeks preparing but often over a month.
How I Can Help
I can offer support with: text translation, translation to performance, making text visual, story building, including musicality, preparing for festivals/performance, developing confidence, working with wildcards, strategies when there is no prep, live translation/performance interpreting, reflecting on completed work, physical care/self care with performance work, dealing with artist interaction when on stage, managing anxiety.
I am able to offer support depending on your needs.
Other Roles / Credentials
Mentor, Senior Practitioner, Psychodynamic Psychotherapist
"There is always a story to find. Find the story and the interpretation becomes easier."
Sammie Vanterpool
Areas of Expertise
Live Music | Festivals | Formal Conferences | Research / Academic
Top Career Highlights
Oasis tour, Pink tour, Co-ordinating teams of interpreters at festivals, Eurovision and the development of the Performance Interpreting's 'Song Club'
About Me
I bring 25 years of dedicated interpreting practice to my role as a mentor and developer. I believe that sustainable change starts with people. My focus is on creating opportunities that elevate the skills, knowledge, and ethical foundation of interpreters at every career stage. This commitment to professional growth is directly tied to my ultimate goal: enhancing equitable access and building stronger communication bridges with the Deaf community
How I Can Help
1:1 and small group Coaching/ mentoring, Shadowing with Intent ( includes observation or co-working, followed by a dedicated session to debrief and analyse choices).
"Live Openly, Lead with Love."
My attitude is one of unwavering service, powered by reflection and dedicated to the success of our Community.
Karen Ward-Welch
Areas of Expertise
Live Music | Festivals Theatre | High-Profile Events | TV | Reflection
Top Career Highlights
Lady GaGa
Madonna
Taylor Hawkins Tribute concert - Wembley
Black Sabbath - Back To The Beginning Concert. Villa Park
Abba Voyage - for the engagement with customers
About Me
Since qualifying as an RSLI in 2004, my career has spanned a wide range of work including theatre, concerts, television, festivals, and live events. I have interpreted all genres of music, but my specialism would be rock, pop and ballads.I love collaborative work with my peers and I am dedicated to continuous professional development in our work. I’m passionate about making music and theatre accessible for our deaf patrons.
How I Can Help
Our sessions will be a safe and supportive space where we can focus on the areas of performance interpreting you want to develop. We can explore specific skills, discuss practical tools, and work at a pace and style that suits you. The aim is to help you build confidence and become a reflective and conscientious practitioner.
Other Roles / Credentials
Professional Supervisor, CAVA Assessor, Senior Practitioner, Mentor, Intra6 Diploma Teacher (AET)
"By reflecting and learning together, we refine our practice as interpreters and strive to make theatre and live experiences accessible to the deaf community, which is at the heart of our work."
Interpreter Song Club
A book club… but for songs!Interpreter Song Club is a free, small-group space (limited to 7 participants) where interpreters and translators come together to practise, experiment, and build confidence in song interpretation.When reserving a place, you must confirm you are available to attend both dates on the event listing.
“So great to share ideas in a group with such varied experience and has really helped me feel more confident about exploring song translation.”
“It was a genuinely inspiring and uplifting experience. I would love to be considered for another group in the future. The learning I took away was invaluable.”
How It Works
Theme & Song
Each Song Club has a clear theme with a pre-selected track we’ll dive into—listening for lyrics, groove, and intent—so you arrive focused and ready to explore.
Between Sessions
Between sessions your group collaborates in a WhatsApp chat to swap ideas, short clips, and tips, setting tiny challenges that keep momentum and confidence growing.
Workshops & Guidance
Across two Zoom workshops, our facilitators coach techniques and performance strategies, offering constructive, kind feedback so you leave clearer, braver, and stage-ready.
*Places are free but very limited (7 max). First-come, first-served.
Who Can Participate?
Song Club is designed for qualified RSLI's, RSLT's, TSLI's, TSLT's & Deaf performers (Level 6+) looking to polish their performance interpreting skills in a supportive, collaborative environment. Whether you're experienced in music interpreting or just starting to explore this domain, you'll find a welcoming space to experiment, learn, and grow.
Meet Your Facilitators
Sammie Vanterpool
"As one of the facilitators of the Song Club I feel privileged to be able to offer interpreters a supportive space to grow professionally. By filming and reflecting on their work in a safe, non-judgmental environment, interpreters can gain deeper insight into their practice, build confidence, share experiences with peers, and develop new strategies."
Karen Ward-Welch
"I'm honoured to be one of the facilitators of SongClub, supporting a space where we can nurture creativity and genuine connection with peers in a way that feels both vulnerable and safe. It's a lovely reminder of why we do what we do, as we explore ideas together, learn from one other and bring a shared sense of purpose to the work we do for our audiences."
Pesonalised Professional Pathways
We’re committed to staying personal and people-focused as we grow. Our Personalised Pathways initiative is designed to support RSLIs, TSLTs, RSLTs, and deaf performers with one-to-one guidance tailored to your professional journey.Whether you’re exploring feedback, developing new skills, or considering a new direction, we’ll connect you with experienced mentors or supervisors to help set goals and provide meaningful feedback.
Who Is This For?
Interpreter Pathways is for Registered Sign Language Interpreters (RSLIs) who want to expand their skill set and take on more varied work. Whether you're looking to specialise in a new domain or develop your expertise across multiple areas, our personalised mentoring approach will help you get there.
This May Include
✧ Check-ins to discuss your goals and career direction
✧ Opportunities to explore feedback from clients or colleagues in a supportive way
✧ Guidance in identifying and working on areas for growth (“growing edges”)
✧ Support in expanding your skills into new domains or specialisms
We’ll help connect you with the right mentors or supervisors who align with your aspirations. Mentors will work collaboratively with you to set meaningful objectives and will provide constructive feedback to us to help you stay on track.
What You'll Need to Apply
Once you click 'Apply Here', we'll ask for:
✧ Your current registration level
✧ How many years you've been qualified
✧ Your primary domain of interest
✧ A copy of your most updated CV
✧ A link to your interpreter profile (website, LinkedIn, or any platform where you're featured)
✧ Information about your previous experience and what you're looking forThis helps us match you with the right mentor and create a pathway tailored to your goals.
We’ll help connect you with the right mentors or supervisors who align with your aspirations. Mentors will work collaboratively with you to set meaningful objectives and will provide constructive feedback to us to help you stay on track.
If a particular specialism doesn’t align with your strengths or aspirations, we’ll work with you to explore alternative routes or domains better suited to your skills and interests. Our goal is to support your growth in a way that feels right for you.
Our aim is to ensure your growth is intentional, supported, and uniquely yours
Volunteer with Performance Interpreting
Our volunteers are at the heart of what we do — bringing energy, care, and connection to every space we work in. From festivals and expos to training days, volunteers help us make each event more accessible, welcoming, and memorable for Deaf audiences and interpreters alike.Whether you sign every day or you’re just beginning your journey with BSL, volunteering is a way to give back, meet new people, and be part of something that matters.
“It’s a community, not a commitment — I came to help, and left inspired.”
What Volunteering Looks Like
Volunteering with Performance Interpreting can take many forms — it all depends on the event.
Community Events
You might help at a PI stand, greet attendees, register interest, hand out materials, or answer questions about access and interpreting.
At a One-Day Event
You could help the interpreter team with logistics — carrying small items, fetching water, assisting Deaf audience members, or helping coordinate with event staff.
At a Multi-Day Festival
You’ll be part of a larger team that sets up banners and equipment, supports the BSL tent or access area, and acts as friendly signposting for Deaf festivalgoers. You’ll receive a festival ticket and basic training before the event.
Each setting is unique, but the purpose stays the same: to support access and inclusion.
Your Role & Rewards
What You’ll Do
✔️ Welcome Deaf attendees
✔️ Support interpreters & coordinators
✔️ Set up small equipment (banners, stands, lights)
✔️ Signpost festivalgoers
✔️ Represent PI positively on site
What You’ll Gain
❤️ Experience in live-access environments
❤️ Free entry to events or festivals
❤️ New friends & connections
❤️ A real sense of contribution
Let's Be Clear
Festival Tips
Comfortable shoes — you’ll walk more than you think, often on uneven ground.
Weather-ready clothing — waterproofs and layers; festivals love microclimates.
Sun protection — hat, sun cream, and reusable bottle.
Photo ID & festival pass — you’ll need these for access and volunteer check-ins.
Portable phone charger — access teams rely on WhatsApp and quick comms.
Small torch or headlamp — essential for packing up at night or navigating fields.
Reusable water bottle — hydration equals stamina.
Pocket snacks — energy dips fast when you’re on your feet for hours.
Tissues / wet wipes — festival hygiene reality check.
Tent & sleeping gear — if camping, bring a lightweight setup and a roll mat.
“It’s a community, not a commitment — I came to help, and left inspired.”
A Note On Shadowing
Occasionally, we invite selected volunteers or trainees to shadow interpreters. This is offered when appropriate — not something to apply for.
Shadowing is about professional development; volunteering is about community.
Get In Touch
If you have a question about one of our courses, need help choosing the right training, or want to discuss tailored support, we’re here to help.Fill in our quick contact form — someone from the team will be in touch.
PI Academy Privacy Policy
Last updated: 01/06/2025At PI Academy (part of Performance Interpreting Ltd), we are committed to protecting your privacy and handling your data with care and transparency.1. What information we collect
When you sign up for a course, join a waitlist, or contact us, we may collect:Your name
Your email address
Your course preferences
Any access needs or information you voluntarily provide2. How we use your information
We use this data to:Confirm your bookings and send event details
Notify you if a waitlist place becomes available
Respond to your messages or questions
Share updates about relevant future training (if you've opted in)We do not sell or share your personal data with third parties.3. Your rights under GDPR
You have the right to:Access the data we hold about you
Request that we correct or delete your data
Withdraw your consent at any time4. How we store your data
All personal data is stored securely using password-protected tools and services. Only authorised members of our team have access to this information.We retain your data for up to 12 months after a course unless you’ve requested to stay informed about future training.5. Contact us
To access, update, or delete your personal data, please fill out our contact form.
We aim to respond to all data-related requests within 30 days, in line with GDPR guidelines.If you’re having any issues or need urgent assistance, you can also email us via the form.