Screen Ireland is hosting “An Introduction to Writing for Children’s Animation In Ireland”; a course in collaboration with Animation Skillnet, Screen Skillnet, Animation Ireland, Cartoon Saloon, Brown Bag Films and 9 Story Media Group. This upskilling opportunity is co-funded through the BAI Sectoral Learning and Development Fund. 

This six-week course will explore the world of writing scripts for children’s television animation. From pitching a story idea, to elaborating an outline and ​crafting multiple drafts, the course will cover how to receive notes, squeeze in that extra giggle, and navigate the logistics of compliance.

Through a mix of online workshops and assignments, the course aims to encourage, support and prepare new writers who want to write for children’s animation (from preschool up).

Course content: 

• An overview of the scripting process from pitch to final production script.
• Basic skills and techniques in writing premises, outlines and scene by scenes.
• Writing dialogue and scenes.
• Completing a first draft.
• Familiarity with scripting formats.
• Familiarity with S&P (Standards and Practice)
• Facilitated Q & A sessions with visiting industry professionals

Classes will be practice-based meaning participants will have the opportunity to develop and evolve an idea over the span of the course. This will incorporate peer-review and feedback so participants can experience the editing process. There will also be individual tutoring sessions to discuss notes and feedback.

Learning outcomes:

By the end of the course, each participant will have:

• Generated pitches and outlines.
• Written a short animation script from an outline.
• Revised and edited based on notes and feedback received.

Date & times:

• 6 Tuesday evenings from 6.30pm-8.30pm; March 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th, April 5th
• 1 of the following Thursday evenings from 6.30pm-8.30pm (individual sessions); March 10th, March 24th, March 31st.

The deadline for Applications is 12pm on Friday 11th February 2022.

Further details here.