writing for animation - series development
Animated Series Development
Animated Series Development is an intensive and comprehensive course that guides you, the series creator, through the development process: From defining and refining the idea into a strong concept; And on to: Developing the parts (format, characters, world, story and episodes) that make up the series and finally, presenting it as a Series Bible. We end the course with a BONUS two weeks strategizing, practising and perfecting your pitch!
The course is specifically for creators who want to learn to develop tv content for children or in the animation space.
The course is specifically for creators who want to learn to develop tv content for children or in the animation space.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
“Animation is a powerful tool that can be used to explore complex emotions and ideas in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.”
john lasseter
kind words by students
Our students love our approach
to learning
“The Storyteller Pod's ANIMATED SERIES DEVELOPMENT-class gave me the framework to go from a barely-there idea to a pitch-ready TV series.
I learnt a whole load and got to talk cartoons with a bunch of other big kids like me!"
I learnt a whole load and got to talk cartoons with a bunch of other big kids like me!"
ALEX ENGLISH - published author
"I went from being a regular Nigerian writer who used to joke about writing for Disney someday (never thinking it could possibly happen) to actually having written on a Disney show and a Netflix show and a PBS show... And on my second show for Disney now!! Using my specs from the Pitch to Script-course."
omotunde akiode - repped screenwriter
"Natasje unpacks the elements of a great scene in a simple, can-do way. Then she coaches you step-by-step through your own scene. I’ll never see the ‘humble’ scene the same again. Onwards and upwards!"
Candice argall - PRODUCER BUGBOX ANIMATION
“There's always something new to discover within the world of animation.”
joseph barbera
ANIMATED SERIES DEVELOPMENT
sees you doing hands-on development with industry professional guidance.
What sets this course apart?
Practical approach
Globally oriented
The course is led by a series developer and development writer who has attended many international markets and engaged with distributors, and commissioners on many projects herself, that means you learn from an active practitioner.
One-of-a-kind
The programme is literally the only programme of its kind. Offering creatives an "outcomes-based", training programme, a manual and samples of what is expected of creators. This empowers you and motivates you to finish your Series Bible in 12 weeks.
“Animation is a journey of imagination and storytelling. It's about creating worlds that don't exist and bringing characters to life that touch our hearts.”
chris williams
Natasje van Niekerk - Course facilitator
Natasje van Niekerk is an international award-winning screenwriter and story editor for animated series. Her experience in TV and film extends to live action, with almost 20 years experience across many genres.
She currently lives in the Irish Countryside with her husband, toddler - yes, she contributed to the audience pool -, two spaniels and a blind cat.
In her free time she enjoys staring at cows over fences and talking to the local sheep... and Cathy, the horse!
She currently lives in the Irish Countryside with her husband, toddler - yes, she contributed to the audience pool -, two spaniels and a blind cat.
In her free time she enjoys staring at cows over fences and talking to the local sheep... and Cathy, the horse!
Created with
