Introduction to screenwriting Autumn 2026

Introduction to screenwriting short course

with Nikesh Shukla

Tuesday evenings, 6 pm to 8 pm

6 October to 1 December 2026 (no class for half-term 27 October)

Arts Complex, 7 Woodland Road, Bristol, BS8 1TB

Fade in on a thematic question: How do we crack into that great idea we’ve always had for a film or TV series? In this friendly course led by award-winning screenwriter Nikesh Shukla, you will start to understand the key elements of the craft and find the space and permission to be inspired.

In a friendly cohort of critical friends, you’ll start writing immediately, even if you’re a complete beginner. You’ll receive responses, teaching and exercises on craft and technique, as well as the opportunity to share your work and receive feedback on it, as well as structured writing time.

You will dive into structure, dialogue, character, genre, and pitching, storytelling, sharing your own ideas and writing only if you wish, and enjoy lively discussions on topics such as what makes the perfect pilot.

You should finish the course with the opening of your screenplay, and an outline for the rest of it, as well as the support of a group of fellow writers keen to go on the same journey.

Email: english-lifelong@bristol.ac.uk
Telephone: 0117 455 8271

Refund policy:

Refunds for our short courses are only to be given in exceptional circumstances and no less than one month before the course is due to start.
Refunds for a course already started cannot be accepted.
If a student is unable to attend a course before it has begun and there is a waiting list, refunds can be granted should their place be successfully transferred to a person on the waiting list.
Refunds will only be processed once receipt of the waiting list student’s fee has been confirmed and can take up to three weeks.
If a course is cancelled or withdrawn by the University, course fees will be refunded, normally in full, within three weeks.

Click here for our full terms and conditions, booking and access information.

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