Writers' Mentorship Programme

Shortland Street is looking to increase its writing team, specifically dialogue writers.
We are setting up a 13-week mentorship programme, in Auckland, where new writers can learn the craft of writing for a serial drama and hopefully achieve sufficient success to earn a regular place on our roster. There will be some remuneration for the 13 weeks.
The programme:
-‐ Introduction to the writing and production process
-‐ Observing the storylining process
-‐ Shadow writing part/full episodes
-‐ Writing trial episodes which will ultimately go to screen
Along the way, the new writers will be guided and supported by one of our top writers.
Who can apply?
Anyone who can demonstrate a commitment to writing, especially television drama. Your initial application will need to be accompanied by a CV and a sample of your writing. Whilst this
need not be a dramatic piece, we will be looking for some measure of skill and assurance.
What is the selection process?
From the initial applications, we’ll come up with a long list. These people will be asked to write five scenes of Shortland Street from the storyline of a past episode.
If your scenes show some promise, you will be given feedback and asked to re-work the scenes where necessary. If you’re able to improve on the scenes, you will go on the short list.
All applicants on the short list will be interviewed.
There will be up to four spaces on the programme.
Dates:
Applications close on 10th November 2014 @ 10am
Long list announced 14th November 2014
Short list announced 8th December 2014
Interviews 16th / 17th December 2014
Successful applicants will be announced by 19th December 2014
The programme is tentatively scheduled to start mid-February 2015.
Applications must send the following information to the email address below:
Name:
Email:
Address:
Phone number:
Biography (One paragraph):
Why I want to write for Shortland Street:
**Attach your CV and sample of your writing
**Email your application to: scripts@shortlandstreet.co.nz