ANIMATED SERIES DEVELOPMENT
WRITE THAT PILOT
This is PART 2 of a TWO PART course, that offers comprehensive training in developing animated television series.
Over 8 weeks, writers or creators with a developed series bible will partake in crafting the pilot episode or sample episode of the original series they created. The course is designed to guide writers through the process of developing and scripting a pilot episode for an animated series and focuses on the unique demands of animation, covering essential aspects from series structure to character setup and visual storytelling.
Each module provides hands-on practice, feedback, and insights tailored to animated series development, helping writers create a polished, submission-ready pilot episode.
Over 8 weeks, writers or creators with a developed series bible will partake in crafting the pilot episode or sample episode of the original series they created. The course is designed to guide writers through the process of developing and scripting a pilot episode for an animated series and focuses on the unique demands of animation, covering essential aspects from series structure to character setup and visual storytelling.
Each module provides hands-on practice, feedback, and insights tailored to animated series development, helping writers create a polished, submission-ready pilot episode.
The course includes:
STARTS 13 JANUARY 2025 - MONDAYS 10-12 AM UK
Write your awesome label here.
Live Classes are Mondays 10-12 AM UK (replays available)
**Payment plans are available**
“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
Eight weeks to pilot script.
Module 1: The Pilot Episode Explained – Explore the unique demands of a pilot episode, from establishing core characters to setting up themes, tone, and story arcs for the series foundation.
Module 2: Options for Series Structure – Shape your series’ structure by examining the running order or "show recipe" for each episode, with examples from well-known animated shows to refine your series blueprint.
Module 3: Writing the Premise for the Pilot Episode – Craft a compelling premise that introduces core elements of the series and provides a strong foundation for story arcs.
Module 4: Beat Breakdown and Episode Outline – Structure the episode with A, B, and C storylines (for older viewers) or motifs (for younger viewers), while factoring in logistical elements like sets, props, and character roles.
Module 5: Refining the Outline and Scene Planning – Polish the episode outline, focusing on scene-by-scene progression and the role each scene plays in visual storytelling.
Module 6: From Outline to Script – Bring the outline to life in screenplay format, with attention to visual storytelling and ensuring cohesion between the pilot episode and series bible.
Module 7: The Second Draft: Deepening Characterization – Strengthen characterization, aligning the script’s portrayal of each character with the series bible and effectively introducing them in the pilot.
Module 8: Polishing the Script – Finalize the script by refining dialogue, pacing, and transitions, incorporating notes and feedback for a professional, submission-ready pilot.
kind words by students
Our students love our
approach to learning
“The Storyteller Pod taught me a better understanding of my audience, mentored me through the process of getting my spec scripts together. I used my spec to get a job on a series... and the rest is history!
I still take classes every week, because I keep learning, and I keep getting better."
robyn roux
"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
"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
“There's always something new to discover within the world of animation.”
joseph barbera
Course contents
“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.
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.
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