The National Film and Television School (NFTS) is launching a new scholarship supported by ITV Studios in memory of the life and work of Sylvia Anderson, co-creator of Thunderbirds.
The Sylvia Anderson Scholarship will support students on the NFTS’ two year Screenwriting MA. Over the next decade, the scholarship will provide full funding for five students, with the first scholar beginning their training in January 2026. The newly created scholarship coincides with the landmark 60th anniversary of Thunderbirds in 2025, the series created by Sylvia and Gerry Anderson.
Jon Wardle, Director of the NFTS, said: “Sylvia Anderson was an extraordinary storyteller whose creative vision left an indelible mark on British film and television. We are incredibly grateful to ITV Studios for this generous scholarship, which will help nurture emerging screenwriting talent and ensure Sylvia’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of creatives.” Carolyn McCall, Chief Executive of ITV, added: “Sylvia Anderson’s contribution to the industry is immeasurable. As we celebrate 60 iconic years of Thunderbirds, ITV Studios is proud to support aspiring screenwriters in her memory, helping them develop the skills needed to shape the future of storytelling.”
Sylvia’s daughter, Dee Anderson, said: “I am so proud of my mother Sylvia Anderson for her remarkable achievements as a writer and pioneer for women in film and television. She would be so happy to inspire and support the next generation of creative writers on this ground-breaking course at the NFTS with the help and backing of ITV.”
Jon Creamer
Share this story
