BBC, Channel 4 and NFTS to host free masterclasses for freelance writers

The BBC, Channel 4 and the National Film and Television School are collaborating to deliver two weeks of free online sessions aimed at freelancers working in the UK.

The schedule which takes place between 2-13 October includes masterclasses, workshops, advice and wellbeing sessions for those working in both scripted and unscripted production. Delivered as webinars, they will offer practical knowledge, skills and support on topics as varied as financial planning, CV writing and self-confidence at a time when the sector is facing unprecedented challenges. Sally Wainwright, John Yorke and Sara Putt are among the speakers for the series named Freelancer Focus.

All sessions will be hosted on Zoom. However, they will not be recorded.

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The free offering comes at a time when 75% of freelancers working in the TV and film industries are out of work as a result of the US industrial disputes. Furthermore, nine out of 10 (90%) said they are worried about their financial security (Bectu, Broadcast).  

However, there are new opportunities arising for writers in the gaming industry. Check out this great piece by Stuart Maine to learn more: How to be a freelance writer for video games. The average salary for a Games Writer is £32978 per year in the UK according to Glassdoor. However, as a freelancer, your earning power could fluctuate above or below this depending on your capacity and the number of successful pitches commissioned.

To see the schedule for Freelancer Focus sessions and to book your place, please use the drop-down link below.

Full Schedule (pdf)