Writing Courses
Home > Professional Development > Writing CoursesBecoming a successful scriptwriter, as with any specialist skill, requires a significant period of apprenticeship usually comprising several years.
The best advice that can be given to writers who wish to learn their craft is to write.
However training courses, whether long or short, can serve as a useful introduction or refresher. Courses can provide newer writers with an understanding of the basics and assist more experienced writers to hone their skills.
Writers of all levels will find some of the following helpful:
NZWG Resources
- The NZWG library, with over 500 items including books, scripts, DVDs, audio and videotapes and scriptwriting magazines, is the largest specialist library on the subject in NZ. Borrowing is restricted to NZWG members. Items may be posted out throughout the country.
- Courses are advertised in the NZWG ebulletin The WriteStuff that is published each fortnight. This publication is distributed to NZWG members only.
- The NZWG stocks Syd Field’s Screenwriting Workshop on DVD for purchase.
- The NZWG stocks John Truby’s Great Screenwriting Course on DVD for purchase.
- Workshops on the business of writing as well as on the craft of writing are offered by the WG from time to time. Guild members are given priority information and bookings. (Please note: The Guild does not hold a separate database for distributing information other than to members.)
Other Resources
- The NZ Screen Council website contains a list of accredited screen industry training courses.
- Script To Screen offers regular panel discussion and networking events, principally in Auckland.
- Onfilm is the only industry specific magazine published in NZ.