Sky Studios launches screenwriting initiative with SharpFutures & ScreenSkills

Cameron Roach

Sky Studios in the UK and social enterprise SharpFutures have launched Flip The Script, a new creative talent development programme for trainee script editors, in association with UK skills body ScreenSkills, and featuring masterclasses from leading UK talent.

The 12-week programme is set to commence in May and is being curated by Cameron Roach, director of drama at Sky Studios, and members of his team. It aims to inspire and encourage a new generation of writers, with a particular focus on talent in the north west of the country, by offering 12 paid placements for trainee script editors to gain and hone their skills.

Online application is now open and will close on 9 April, with the initiative including masterclasses from screenwriting and producing talent such as Nicola Shindler, Paul Abbott, Furquan Akhtar, Danny Brocklehurst and Cameron Roach, among others.

“Sky have worked in collaboration with Sharp Futures across a number of our shows shot in the north west in recent years, including the forthcoming Intergalactic, and their passion and commitment for enabling the individual voice is incredibly inspiring,” said Roach.

“We’re excited to unearth a new generation of creative talent working in partnership with SharpFutures, and ScreenSkills, as well as the generous industry partners and individuals who have agreed to offer masterclasses and workshops.

“Script Editing is a powerful industry tool in enabling true diversity of voice, and we recognise that there needs to be more open access into the role going forward’.

Elli Metcalfe, head of production at SharpFutures, added: “For SharpFutures, where we pride ourselves in being a leader in securing opportunities in the broadcast sector, collaborating with the teams at Sky Drama and Screenskills is always a pleasure.

“Invariably it leads to us discovering new ways to face challenges and ultimately make positive change in our industry and for our community in the future. Flip The Script is an initiative I know will deliver wonderful openings for a new generation of creative talent.”