NFTS and Left Bank Pictures to launch UK writers development programme for under-represented voices

In a concerted effort to promote a more inclusive and diverse British film and television industry, the National Film and Television School (NFTS) announces the launch of an exceptional new UK writers development programme, in partnership with Left Bank Pictures.

Kicking off from March 2024, the newly formed NFTS Diverse Writers Development Programme will select six up and coming UK screenwriters from under-represented backgrounds to contribute their unique voices to the entertainment landscape and inject fresh perspectives into the world of scripted drama. The chosen writers will embark on a paid, intensive 10-week programme that will immerse them in a dynamic environment of creativity and collaboration.

During the course of the programme, four full series ideas will be developed and pitched, with the aim of creating commercially viable television drama concepts. The selected writers will engage in a series of writing exercises, gaining unparalleled exposure to professional briefs, enabling them to refine their skills and expertise in a real-world context.

The participants will work through a comprehensive curriculum designed by the NFTS whose graduates include screenwriters Laurie Nunn (Sex Education), Amelia Spencer (His Dark Materials) and Nathaniel Price (Noughts + Crosses). Meticulously designed to strengthen their creative and professional acumen, the writers will get an understanding of the studio production process — and how projects go from script to screen.

The programme will connect writers with production executives from Left Bank Pictures (The Crown, Without Sin, Quiz, Who Is Erin Carter?) and potentially other British production companies, facilitating unique opportunities for mentorship and industry networking. The writers will pitch their finished series ideas to executives from participating companies, who will have the option to pick up the concepts for further development.

Commenting on the launch of the new initiative, NFTS Director Jon Wardle commented: “Together with Left Bank Pictures, we hope to carve a new path where diverse voices illuminate the way forward, ensuring the stories we tell on screen are as vibrant and varied as the world we live in. We can’t wait to find these six new emerging writing talents from across the UK and begin the exciting journey ahead.”

Andy Harries, CEO of Left Bank Pictures added: “This is an important scheme, supporting new diverse talent and allowing their story telling to be heard and shared. We are thrilled to be part of this new initiative.”

Applications for the NFTS Diverse Writers Development Programme are now open with a closing date of midnight on 31st October 2023. For more info on how to apply and for eligibility criteria, visit here.