BBC Writers Pilot 2027/28 - More Information

BBC Writers’ Pilot programme exists to identify outstanding emerging television writers and give them the support, time and industry connections to realise their potential. For 2027/28 we're delighted to be focusing the programme exclusively on emerging deaf, disabled and neurodivergent writers, whose voices are vital to the future of television drama in the UK. 

As BBC Writers' flagship writer development programme, Pilot is designed to help writers with professional experience develop a new original television drama with the expertise of some of the UK's leading independent production companies and the BBC Writers and Drama Commissioning teams. 

Applications for this year's programme open at noon on Tuesday 7th July and close at noon on Tuesday 4th August

Find out full details and apply for Pilot 2027/28

A new focus for 2027/8

This year, Pilot will be open exclusively to writers who identify as deaf, disabled and/or neurodivergent (DDN). As part of the application process, applicants will be asked to self-identify as belonging to the DDN community. 

We're making this change in recognition of the significant barriers that deaf, disabled and neurodivergent writers continue to face across the screen industries. While there is an extraordinary wealth of creative talent within the DDN community, many writers still encounter obstacles in accessing opportunities, building industry relationships and progressing their careers. 

Pilot has always been about identifying exceptional writing talent and providing meaningful creative support at a pivotal stage in a writer's career. For this iteration, we're proud to focus that support on writers from the DDN community, helping to create greater opportunity and improve representation across television drama. 

What is Pilot?

Pilot is an intensive development programme for writers who already have some experience and are looking to take the next professional step in their careers. 

Up to eight DDN writers will be selected to take part in an 18-month programme where they will be paired with an independent production company to define and develop an original television drama. Along the way, writers will attend masterclasses and workshops with established television writers, producers and commissioners, and develop their project through several drafts with editorial support from the BBC Writers and Drama Commissioning teams. 

The programme is designed to give writers the opportunity to strengthen both their writing and their professional networks. 

Who should apply?

Pilot is aimed at writers who have already begun building a professional career in screenwriting, it is not an entry-level opportunity and there are some specific eligibility requirements that writers must meet in order to apply. You can find the full eligibility criteria in the Terms and Conditions. Please read the guidance carefully before applying. 

If you do not meet the specific eligibility requirements for Pilot this year then we encourage you to consider applying to our annual Open Call which will return in November 2026. 

If you require support in making an application, or if you would like to receive the application materials in an alternative accessible format, then please Contact the BBC Writers team at least five working days before the application deadline. 

Good luck to all those writers who are applying. We look forward to reading your work.