National Young Writers is delivered by two award-winning organisations: Pentabus, the nation's rural touring theatre company, and production company Rural Media. Through collaborative online learning, young writers explore how to write and produce brilliant short plays for digital platforms.

During the course, National Young Writers:

  • take part in 7 online evening workshops, and a number of 1-2-1 sessions, led by experienced writers, directors and producers.
  • explore how to construct characters, build scenes, create tension and write dialogue
  • are supported to develop and write an original short script, and given a budget to produce new work in a digital format
  • film work easily on a mobile phone and see it performed by professional actors.
  • write 3 x 90 second, individual pieces, specifically for social media. (The 3 x pieces can be connected by an issue or theme or location)
  • are signposted, where possible, to further talent development opportunities

By the end of the course, National Young Writers will have written and produced 3 short films that appeal to wide digital audiences and showcase originality and creativity. These films will be released across Pentabus' and Rural Media's digital platforms as part of a celebration of young people's writing. 

Former Pentabus Young Writers have gone on to Olivier Award nominations, and last year National Young Writers projects gained over 500,000 views on TikTok alone. Click here to watch previous pieces.

 

Who can apply?

Recruitment for our 2025 cohort is now closed, but watch this space for updates on next year. 

We are always particularly interested in hearing from rural writers aged 18 - 30 from across the UK, and from people from backgrounds currently under-represented in the arts and cultural sector. The course is aimed at young people who may not even know they're writers yet and those who have some experience of writing.

Participant age: 18-30

When does the course run: April 2025 – September 2025 (6 months). 

Number of workshops: 7 online workshops + supported production time outside of sessions

Where: Online (via Zoom)

Cost: Free

 

If you have any questions, please contact Joanna Freeman (Head of Engagement) on projects@pentabus.co.uk.

I just wanted to email to say thank you so much for all the guidance and opportunity you provide at Pentabus. If it wasn’t for NYW I wouldn’t be in this position a year on.

National Young Writer