Director training programme with HBO
A progression pathway for mid-level directors within high-end television.
Warner Bros. Discovery Access x HBO Director Programme
The WBD Access x HBO Director Programme has been established to provide a progression pathway for mid-level directors within high-end television. Offering exposure to the scale and complexity of world-building for one of the world’s most iconic and cherished streaming brands, the training programme aims to expand directorial opportunities for the directors, whilst bringing new talent and voices to HBO. Delivered at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, selected directors will engage in an intensive curriculum crafted with a specific focus on the tools required to direct large budget, VFX-heavy HBO productions. It will be a unique opportunity to expand creative practice by providing access to the processes, practices, and expectations of working at this level. A select number of those on the training programme may then progress to shadow on an HBO production for up to 12 weeks.
Eligibility criteria
This programme is designed for mid-level directors with a strong creative track record who are ready to progress within high end television. It is not intended for entry-level talent. To be considered for this programme, you must:
1. Not have directed a television episode made for HBO or HBO Max
2. Be aged 18 or over at the time of application (no upper age limit)
3. Have the right to work in the UK
4. Be able to submit at least three samples of completed narrative content directed within the last five years, which may include:
a. High-end television narrative content for a broadcaster or streamer
b. Continuing drama (e.g. television series or soap operas) for a broadcaster or streamer
c. Feature films that have been screened at an internationally recognised film festival and/or had a theatrical release
d. Short films that have been screened at an internationally recognised film festivals (see our FAQs for which festivals qualify)
Please note that at least one of these samples must demonstrate experience at broadcast/streaming level, i.e. meet criteria a or b.
Student films, self-produced YouTube/Vimeo projects, web series, short films, corporate videos, commercials and branded content are not eligible for consideration in isolation. These may be included as supplementary material, i.e. in addition to the three samples provided.
Entry Materials
To apply, the following items must be submitted along with a completed application form:
1. A CV covering:
- Relevant employment history
- Official selections at film festivals (if applicable)
- Relevant industry credits
- Shadowing experience (if applicable)
2. Bio
3. Intro video: An introduction to you, outlining your background and experience which makes you an ideal candidate for the WBD Access x HBO Director Programme.
4. Video/Essay Question: What are some skills you’d like to develop when it comes to episodic TV directing? What facets of production would you like to learn more about that would enhance your capability as a director?
5. Three samples of directing work that demonstrates your storytelling ability, technical skill, and creative voice. Please note that at least one sample must be a broadcast television episode.
6. Directing Reel - optional
7. Reference letter – optional (not from your Agent or Manager)
A final shortlist of up to 10 candidates will be invited to interview with representatives from Warner Bros. Discovery in mid-October. The final participants selected for the training programme will be notified by late October.
Programme Timeline:
Submissions Open: Monday 1st September 2025
Submission Deadline: Wednesday 24th September 2025 (11:59PM BST)
Final Cohort Notification: Friday 24th October 2025
Orientation & Welcome Call: Tuesday 4th November 2025
In-person Workshops: Week commencing 10th November 2025
Potential Shadowing: Anticipated from December 2025 (details to be discussed directly with the relevant individuals)
Dates are subject to change at the discretion of the company.
FAQs
I live outside the UK. Can I apply? Will you handle my visa?
We are only accepting submissions from candidates who are currently based in the UK and have the right to work in the UK. The programme will not be able to sponsor you or pay for your visa.
Do I need to have experience as a director?
Applicants must be able to demonstrate a creative track record by submitting at least three samples of completed narrative content directed within the last five years. At least one of these samples must be a broadcast sample.
Applicants must not have already directed a television episode made for HBO or HBO Max .
When is the deadline to apply for this programme?
All applications must be submitted by Sunday 21st September, 11:59PM (BST). No exceptions.
How do I apply?
All submissions must be made through our portal (see link below). Submissions via email will not be accepted.
What is considered internationally recognised film festival?
For information on internationally recognised film festivals, please visit the BIFA guidance website on shorts here: https://www.bifa.film/about/rules-and-eligibility/bifa-qualifying-festivals/bifa-qualifying-festivals-list/.
When will I find out if I am successful?
A final shortlist of up to 10 candidates will be invited to interview with representatives from Warner Bros. Discovery in mid-October. The final participants selected for the training programme will be notified by late October.
What is the time commitment of the programme? Can I participate in other obligations while in the programme?
If you are selected for the programme, you will be required to attend the virtual training and in-person workshops that will take place in Watford during November. If a participant is offered a shadowing placement, timings will be discussed on a case by case basis, but it is anticipated that the first placement will start in December 2025 .
What personal expenses will be covered through the scheme?
Travel and accommodation expenses will be covered through a stipend of £1,500 individuals that are accepted onto the training programme. Please get in touch with our team via email at access.international@wbd.com if you have any further questions regarding financial aid for the programme.
I have some more questions, is there someone I can get in contact with?
Of course, please get in touch with our team via email at access.international@wbd.com.
Who can I contact about a technical issue I’m having with the Applicant Portal?
If you are still experiencing technical issues after reading through the above FAQ’s, please contact access.international@wbd.com.
Will my self-identification information be shared? How will this information be used?
Individual level self-identification data will never be shared. Since the programmes are designed to serve underrepresented communities, collecting and analysing the aggregate data allows us to monitor diversity and review equal opportunities across our programmes. It will play no part in the application process. This self-identification section will be separated from your application on receipt. All self-identification questions are voluntary to answer.