It is that time again – Pentabus and Rural Media have announced that applications are open for National Young Writers 2026! It hardly seems like it’s been a year since applications were last open, but here we are, and it is time for the 2026 applications.
The National Young Writers is a free online course that offers an in-depth exploration of writing and provides the opportunity to create three brilliant micro plays designed for digital platforms.
The National Young Writer projects have received over 1 million views on TikTok, and alumni of the programme have gone on to secure Olivier Award Nominations, join BBC New Voices and become Pentabus Writers in Residence. With that being said, this is not only a hugely exciting opportunity, but when applying, no one knows what the future holds for the successful applicants!
National Young Writers is delivered by two award-winning organisations: Pentabus, the nation’s rural touring theatre company, and production company Rural Media. Young writers will take part in a series of dynamic online workshops and masterclasses hosted by industry professionals and will be supported in creating their own original work.
During the course, the National Young Writers will:
– Take part in 7 online evening workshops and several 1-2-1 sessions led by experienced writers, directors and producers.
-Explore how to construct characters, build scenes, create tension and write dialogue.
-Be supported to develop and write an original short script and a budget to produce new work in a digital format.
-Film work easily on a mobile phone and see it performed by professional actors.
-Write 3 x 90-second individual micro plays for social media. The 3 pieces can be connected by an issue, a theme or a location.
-Be signposted, where possible, to further talent development opportunities.
By the end of the course, National Young Writers will have written and produced 3 micro plays that appeal to wide digital audiences and showcase originality and creativity. These films will be released across Pentabus’ and Rural Media’s digital platforms as part of a celebration of young people’s writing between April and July 2027.
With so much packed into one course, what a great way to further one’s ideas, writing and imagination. I for one, can’t wait to see what work is produced by the successful applicants!
Last year’s National Young Writers’ micro plays are watchable here.
The course is aimed at those aged 18 – 30, and Pentabus have always been very clear that they are always particularly interested in hearing from rural writers across the UK and from people from backgrounds currently under-represented in the arts and cultural sector. The course is aimed at young people who may not even know they’re writers yet and those who have some experience of writing. This course really is open to anyone, so why not give it a shot – everyone starts somewhere, and who knows where your writing may lead you!
Commenting on their experience of the course, a 2025 National Young Writer said: ‘When the content of the project was first introduced, I thought “I am just a writer, how am I going to be able to also film, budget, cast, and edit my film?’’, but it has been a career changing experience for me to expand my craft, and I was so well supported by the Pentabus and Rural Media team. I would recommend this project to any creative who wants to explore an array of aspects in the film making process.’
If you’re a hopeful applicant, here is the important information you’ll need to know:
Participant age: 18-30
Course dates: September 2026 – March 2027 (8 months).
Number of workshops: 6 workshops + 1:1 sessions and production/planning time
Where: Online (via Teams)
Cost: Free
Application deadline: 10.00am on Monday 13 July 2026.
There isn’t long left until the application deadline, so if you are thinking of applying, don’t delay! With such a brilliant reach and successes from previous successful Young Writer applicants, who knows what this fantastic opportunity may lead to!
For information on how to apply, check out the Pentabus website via the link: National Young Writers application information, or you can email Connor Elliman (Engagement Lead) at connor@pentabus.co.uk.
One Show at a Time 