BFI NETWORK Midlands Features Ideas Writing Lab is a focused creative development space designed for eight emerging writers from across the Midlands who are ready to take the first step toward developing their debut feature film.
Over a week, participants will be guided through a series of practical and inspiring exercises to help unlock fresh story ideas and begin shaping the foundations of a debut feature screenplay.
Led by story developer and screenwriter Laura Jayne Tunbridge, the lab offers a supportive environment where writers can dig into their own creative instincts, experiment with new approaches, and gain confidence in articulating the kinds of stories they want to tell. Through group discussion, reflection, and hands-on activities, each writer will gain a stronger sense of their voice and tangible starting points for a feature-length narrative.
The Lab will start with a day of workshops and discussions at Broadway Cinema in Nottingham, where, as a cohort, we will start to explore techniques for generating ideas. Over the following week, we will have check-in sessions, discussions and 1:1 feedback taking place online to keep the creative momentum going.
Whether you have fragments, themes, images, or simply the desire to discover what your film could be, this is a space to spark inspiration and begin shaping the stories only you can tell.
The closing date for applications is Wednesday 18th March 2026 at 5pm
Who is it for?
This opportunity is open to writers who have demonstrated a track record through multiple projects, receiving some industry recognition. This could be festival selections, screenings of your work, broadcasts, online releases, articles or reviews. The lab is also open to writers who are moving across to film from other art forms, but must still have produced or published work.
If you are earlier in your career, then we encourage you to apply for our script lab, which will be returning later in the year.
You must be based in the Midlands and provide your postcode at the point of application.
You must be over 18 years of age and not in full-time education.
When is it?
The programme will take place in person in Nottingham at Broadway Cinema on Sunday 12th April and then will continue online with evening sessions on Wednesday 15th April and Friday 17th April, as well as bookable 1:1 feedback sessions.
The programme is completely free to attend, and travel will be provided for successful applicants.
How to Apply
Apply below using the application form.
If you have any questions or have access requirements for your application, please email us at BFINETWORK@filmhubmidlands.org
The closing date for applications is Wednesday 18th March 2026 at 5pm
