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Tips for writing your application

Everything you need to know to put together a strong application for the
Arvon Screenwriting Programme.

 

Synopsis 

  • We are looking for a 300-word summary of the TV drama or comedy-drama you want to develop throughout the two year programme.
  • It should include key characters, major plot points, and the central theme of the story. It should have a clear beginning, middle, and end, and focus on the structure and emotional beats without going into unnecessary detail.
  • We are looking for original stories and unique voices.
  • Remember we want you to apply with a new idea for a TV drama/comedy drama project, or a project in the early stages of development.

 

Script 

  • We want to read the opening 10 pages of a script.
  • This can but does not need to be the project you want to develop on the programme. It should be from a TV drama or comedy drama, and it should be entirely your own work.
  • Above all, it should show off your writing talent. We are looking for a strong voice; intentional use of tone and language; and structure that amplifies the writing. Characters will leap off the page. All dialogue will be for a purpose. Worlds will feel full, coherent and well-researched.
  • Present your script appropriately. Find a helpful BBC guide here and further examples from the BBC here.
  • When you apply, please upload your script as a PDF.

 

Personal statement 

  • We want to hear about three things in particular in your personal statement, outlined below.
  • You may wish to answer each point below separately, or all together in a combined narrative – whatever works best to tell your story.
  • Do not exceed 1 page or use font smaller than 11pt.

 

This opportunity is for screenwriters from working class and lower socio-economic backgrounds. Please explain how this applies to you. 

Being from a working-class or lower socio-economic background might be an integral part of your writing journey, it might be something that defines you as a writer, or it might be just one part of your life experience. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but please make it clear that you do fulfil this eligibility criterion.

 

We want to hear about your writing journey so far.

This is a chance to give us a sense of your commitment to your writing. You might write about overcoming personal obstacles to commit to your writing; tell us what you learnt writing previous projects; or explain why writing is important in your life. Remember, you don’t need to have done any writing programmes before, or to have had work produced. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but this is a chance for you to show off your passion and commitment – show us you understand what it takes to complete a full-length screenplay, and that you have the drive to do it on this programme.

 

Explain the difference this opportunity would make to you as a writer. 

Any emerging screenwriter would benefit from this programme – so please be specific! What does this programme offer which you need to develop right now? Successful applicants will show us that they understand what this programme will include. It may be helpful to quickly research the mentors and what an Arvon course is like. Thinking about your project, and your strengths and weaknesses as a writer, tell us why you think you’d benefit from each part of the programme. With specific reference to what’s on offer, make us feel that, this programme is exactly what you need now to complete your spec script and take the next step in your career.

 

Here are a few resources to help you learn more about Arvon and what you might get out of the programme:

 

Finally, if you have a question about access, please check the FAQs first. If the application form is not accessible to you, email screenwriting@arvon.org.  

 Best of luck – we look forward to receiving your application.