Pentabus and Rural Media today announce that applications are open for National Young Writers 2026, a free online course that offers an in-depth exploration of writing and provides the opportunity to create three brilliant micro plays designed for digital platforms.

National Young Writers is delivered by two award-winning organisations: Pentabus, the nation's rural touring theatre company, and production company Rural Media.

Young writers will take part in a series of dynamic online workshops and masterclasses hosted by industry professionals and will be supported to create their own original work.

During the course, the National Young Writers will:
- Take part in 7 online evening workshops and a number of 1-2-1 sessions led by experienced writers, directors and producers
- Explore how to construct characters, build scenes, create tension and write dialogue
- Be supported to develop and write an original short script and a budget to produce new work in a digital format
- Film work easily on a mobile phone and see it performed by professional actors
- Write 3 x 90 second individual micro plays for social media. The 3 pieces can be connected by an issue or theme or location
- Be signposted, where possible, to further talent development opportunities

By the end of the course, National Young Writers will have written and produced 3 micro plays that appeal to wide digital audiences and showcase originality and creativity. These films will be released across Pentabus’ and Rural Media’s digital platforms as part of a celebration of young people’s writing between April – July 2027.

Pentabus Young Writers is aimed at those aged 18 – 30. Course dates are September 2026 – March 2027 (8 months). Cost: Free  Application deadline: 10am on Monday 13 July 2026. For information on how to apply, check out the Pentabus website here.