Writing for TV COMPETITION 2026

• UK based writers over 16

• English language script

• Script file itself must be submitted with no names or contact details on any page of the script. 

• The screenwriter(s) must be emerging screenwriters. Watersprite defines ‘emerging screenwriter)’ as those who have 3 or less professional writing credits. Credits in different roles in the industry (for example as a runner or in the camera department) will not impact your application.

• Multiple co-writers allowed as long as each writer has 3 or less professional writing credits.

As part of the application form, you will be asked to upload:

1 - The first ten pages of a TV pilot screenplay that is not yet produced nor in the process of being produced. The screenplay must be in pdf or word format in the industry standard format (courier font, size 12, screenplay style). The title of the file must be the name of the script.

2 - A pilot synopsis of max 50 words that sells the premise of the pilot, the kind you would expect in a pitch.

3 - A series summary of max 300 words that describes the vision for the series overall, such as overarching themes or character arcs.

4 - A link to an Imdb page or a cv/portfolio that shows the writer has 3 or less than 3 professional writing credits.

Those nominated for the competition will be invited to attend Watersprite Film Festival, where you will: 

• Be invited to attend the exclusive Watersprite Awards Ceremony.

• Connect with other writers, as well as directors, producers and actors at the festival.

• Become part of an alumni network with members that have gone on to work across the industry, from Film4, to the Henson Company and many more.

In addition to the perks of being a nominee, the eventual winner will be presented with an award at our Watersprite Awards Ceremony. Past winners have received licenses for writing software and mentorship with award-winning screenwriters.

5th November - Submissions open

30th November, Midnight - Submissions close

28th January - Deadline for results to be sent to applicants.

6-8th March - Watersprite Film Festival

1 - Note that each writer (or group of writers) can submit one screenplay only which must be their own work. Adaptations or screenplays based on other works (such as books or plays) will only be accepted if all rights are owned by the writer of the screenplay or if the underlying work is in the public domain and is no longer protected by copyright. Screenplays based on true stories or events may be submitted provided the writer has written permission from any living persons represented in the script.

2 - The screenwriters themselves must submit their screenplays, and not agents on their behalf. This is to avoid large numbers of bulk entries which can affect the entry distribution and judging process.

3 - Any screenplays that have used AI (such as ChatGPT) are not eligible.

4 - All screenplays must be un-produced and must not enter development until March 2026. All rights must be held by the writer(s) who are submitting to the competition and not to a third party. If during the course of the competition a screenplay enters production or development, Watersprite must be notified and the screenplay will no longer be eligible for the competition.

5 - All screenplays must be submitted as a PDF (.pdf) or word document (.docx) and in size 12 font.

6 - All screenplays must be written in English. Translation of screenplays of other languages into English is allowed, if the translator can provide proof that they are also a beginner screenwriter.

7 - Past Watersprite alumni and those who have submitted to Watersprite 2026 are allowed to enter.

8 - All entrants must be at least 16 years of age at the time of the festival. Under 18s will need parental permission to attend (even virtually).

9 - Screenplays can be co-written. All writers must be credited and must be beginner professional screenwriters.

10 - The screenwriter(s) must be emerging screenwriters. Watersprite defines ‘emerging screenwriter’ as those who have 3 or less professional writing credits. Proof will be required at the submissions stage in the form of access to an Imdb page or a cv/portfolio.

11 - Screenwriters must ensure that their name and contact details have been removed from every page of the script. All scripts will be read “blind” i.e. without a name attached, until the final stages of judging. Any screenplays that include contact details will not be considered. All readers of the screenplays will be prohibited from copying or otherwise exploiting the scripts for any reason other than in connection with the competition itself; copyright remains with the writers.

12 - All screenplays must be in an ‘industry standard’ format. Please see an example provided by the BBC: http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/writersroom/scripts/screenplaytv.pdf