Channel 4 New Writers Scheme 2024

Channel 4’s New Writers Scheme is a one-stop-shop for new writers with a burning desire to write TV drama. It is open to unrepresented new writers looking for their first writing credit. This scheme is aimed at those currently underrepresented in the TV industry. Channel 4 are particularly keen to hear from Deaf and/or disabled people, ethnically diverse people and people from lower socioeconomic groups.

This is a unique opportunity to gain the skills needed to forge a successful writing career, and tell stories which reflect the diversity and creativity of the place where you live. Over 8 months, you will benefit from expert industry training and insights, mentoring and introductions to scripted drama production companies. You must be available to attend in person training days in Bristol, Glasgow or Leeds around every two months. At the end of the scheme, you will submit a spec script for feedback from Channel 4.

This development programme is targeted at emerging writers from the Nations & Regions, with three regional cohorts based in Bristol, Glasgow and Leeds. With up to 8 writers in each regional cohort, you will build your skills, knowledge and networks to develop and write scripts reflecting your regional identity with a particular focus on diverse perspectives.

Channel 4’s New Writers Scheme ran as a pilot in the West & South West of England in 2022. It was developed by Channel 4’s Bristol hub in partnership with Bristol UNESCO City of Film, BFI NETWORK (delivered regionally in the South West by Watershed), UWE Bristol and The Bottle Yard Studios. Its purpose was to support partner ambitions to develop TV drama talent and increase representation of regional stories on screen. Following on from the successes of this pilot and working again with their partners at the BFI Network, they are now expanding the scheme to continue to support more writers across the Nations & Regions.

ELIGIBILITY/CRITERIA

• The scheme is open to all new writers who are not represented by an agent. Please note that Channel 4 cannot accept applications from writers with representation or a writing credit for television.
• You will be able to demonstrate a burning desire to write television drama.
• You may have had experience in writing for theatre, radio or made short films though this is not essential.
• Submissions will be your original work.
• Submissions will be assessed on the strength of the writing and the originality of the pitch.
• You must be able to commit to attending in-person training days (around every 6-8 weeks) at your chosen regional location, alongside regular virtual masterclass sessions and meetings with your mentor and script editor.