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This one-day practical workshop introduces new and emerging writers to the professional world of pitching for scripted television. Through a mix of discussion, analysis, and hands-on exercises, participants will learn how to confidently present themselves and their ideas, structure compelling written pitches, and navigate the realities of industry meetings.
Attendees will also gain first-hand insight from working industry professionals and develop strategies for resilience, flexibility, and professional growth within a competitive creative landscape.
Key Aims
- Build writer confidence and resilience.
- Develop knowledge of different types of pitching — written, verbal, and in meetings.
- Understand the elements of a strong written pitch.
- Gain current, real-world insight from industry practitioners.
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Pitch themselves and their ideas with greater confidence.
- Recognise and adapt to different pitching contexts and expectations.
- Understand the importance of flexibility and being able to pivot creatively.
- Identify the key components of a successful written pitch and apply them.
- Evaluate and improve written pitches, including their own and others’.
- Approach industry meetings with clarity and confidence.
What the Course Covers
- Understanding what a pitch is — and what makes one stand out
- The different types of pitching in scripted television: Written pitches, Verbal pitches, General meetings, Story room pitches
- How to talk confidently about yourself and your ideas
- The essentials of a strong written pitch — structure, tone, and focus
- Common pitfalls and “red flags” in pitching (using a fictional bad pitch example)
- Developing your personal voice and selling your story authentically
- How to adapt (“pivot”) your pitch based on feedback or opportunity
- Navigating professional meetings with producers, execs, and commissioners
- Understanding what producers and broadcasters are looking for
- Building professional resilience — dealing with rejection and radio silence
- What happens after a successful pitch: development, treatments, and bibles
- Practical pitching exercises (individual and group work)
- Reviewing and evaluating pitch documents
- Guest speaker insights from current industry professionals
This course will most likely appeal to newer writers and screenwriting graduates. The focus is the differing elements and means of pitching in scripted television.
Prior to the course commencing, attendees will have been sent a fictional pitch bespoke for the course. This pitch is made up of various ‘bad’ pitching elements which will help form the spine of the teaching. Students must familiarise themselves with this pitch and be able to discuss it in class. They must also come prepared to ‘pitch’ in class as individuals and as group work.
Also prior to commencement attendees must supply a list of recent dramas watched with enough knowledge to be able to pitch the series. This list must include UK drama.
There is no need to bring original written work to the class.
Complete our application form