From pre-school to tween TV - master the art of creating content that entertains, engages, and endures
Date: Friday, 25 April
Time: 11:20
Room: Herringham Hall
Filmed: YES
What makes children’s content not just watchable, but unforgettable? Join BAFTA-winner Catherine Williams (Shaun the Sheep, Pocoyo) and Emmy & BAFTA-winner Jo Clegg (Hey Duggee, including shows for major networks Nickelodeon, Milkshake, CBeebies, Netflix, and Cartoon Network) for an illuminating journey into the craft of writing for young audiences.
Under the expert guidance of moderator Addy Farmer, whose work spans from picture books to animation, this session unpacks the unique challenges and profound rewards of creating content that shapes young imaginations.
Drawing from their diverse experiences across animation, live-action, and multiple age groups, our panelists share the essential principles that drive successful children’s programming. You’ll discover how to write with authenticity for different developmental stages, balance entertainment with educational value, and create stories that resonate with both children and the adults in their lives.
Through practical examples from beloved shows like “The New Teletubbies,” “Chuggington,” and the upcoming “Piggy Builders,” you’ll learn how to:
- Craft age-appropriate narratives that respect young viewers’ intelligence
- Navigate the specific demands of pre-school versus older children’s content
- Build stories that work across cultural boundaries
- Create characters that capture young imaginations
- Balance commercial appeal with creative integrity
- Handle sensitive topics for different age groups
Whether you’re looking to break into children’s television or enhance your existing work in the field, this session offers invaluable insights from three distinct perspectives in children’s media. Come ready to explore how great children’s content can be both creatively fulfilling and commercially successful.
Speakers In This Session
Jo Clegg // Animation Scriptwriter & Author
Jo is a versatile writer and creative coach with credits across animation, comedy, and publishing, helping creatives reach their full potential.
Addy Farmer // Children’s Author and Screenwriter
Award-winning children’s author who has books with Walker, Random House, and Hachette. Her latest series explores ecological themes through children’s fascination with the icky.
Catherine Williams // Children’s TV Series Creator and Screenwriter
Catherine Williams, BAFTA-winning screenwriter, has crafted iconic kids’ TV shows like Pocoyo and Shaun the Sheep, with Piggy Builders premiering in 2025.
