Careers Breakfast: Johanne McAndrew

We were delighted to be joined at this week’s Careers Breakfast by TV and Film Scriptwriter, Johanne McAndrew.

Jo is a freelance scriptwriter with more than 100 primetime credits to her name, including well-known that TV programmes such as Holby City, Hollyoaks and Casualty. She is also the creator of four original TV series and has had two feature-length films optioned. 

Students enjoyed hearing about the process of getting a TV show or film made, as well as the ups and downs of working freelance or working in a writing team on a long-running show. 

Jo shared some good advice about getting started in writing, and how the rise of streaming networks and video-based social media means that there are more opportunities than ever for aspiring young writers. 

Head of Careers, Dr Hensman, thanked Jo for her time. 

He said: “It has been great for students to hear from someone who is successful in the TV and Film industry. Jo gave the students some useful tips on how to get started in the industry, but also shared some useful lessons from her own experience.

“Accepting criticism graciously and dealing with rejection are important skills for anyone, but particularly important when working in TV and Film.”

Next week’s careers breakfast is with historian, Miranda Kaufmann. Students can sign up now on SOCS.