The BFI Film Academy Residential Programme in Screenwriting is looking for 25 of the most talented and committed young writers living in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to take part in an intensive residential training programme that kick-starts a career in the film industry.
The programme will teach you the craft skills necessary to succeed as a screenwriter, gain an exclusive insider’s view of how to break into the film business, and network with leading industry professionals.
The programme is delivered in three parts between January and February 2015, including two residentials at the historic Tyneside Cinema in Newcastle upon Tyne.
- Ideas & Process (Newcastle / 10th-11th Jan): meet your peers and industry mentors and explore the process of writing a screenplay from generating original ideas to delivering the final draft.
- Time To Write (Online / 12th Jan – 12th of Feb): using a secure online forum you work towards the creation of a first draft screenplay under the guidance of your industry mentor.
- Industry & Craft Week (Newcastle / 15th -20th Feb): this intensive five day residential features two strands: in one you meet a number of leading industry insiders who reveal how the film business works and define the role the writer plays in the creation of a film. In the second strand, you participate in a series of craft workshops that moves your screenplay from first draft to final draft. The programme culminates with a script reading showcase of your work at Tyneside Cinema, where actors will perform your work in front of an invited audience of film business professionals, family and friends.
On completion of the programme you will be helped to secure a film-related work-placement to further develop their skills, knowledge and networks.
Cost: The cost of taking part is £50. This covers all of the masterclasses, the craft workshops, the mentor support and learning materials, as well as meals and accommodation during the two residentials. The only additional cost is your travel to and from Newcastle upon Tyne, which you are expected to arrange and pay for yourself. If you are offered a place but are unable to attend for financial reasons, there are a limited number of bursaries available.
How to apply: To apply for the Academy please download and complete the BFI Screenwriting Application Form and email it to bfiscreenwriting@tynesidecinema.co.uk with the subject ‘BFI Screenwriting Application. Alternatively you can post it to BFI Screenwriting Academy, Tyneside Cinema, 10 Pilgrim Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6QG.
Deadline: 30 November 2015
Source: Playwrights’ Studio Scotland