Hi, I’m Sophie Gardiner – screenwriter, university lecturer, and story coach.

For over 25 years, I’ve worked on both sides of the story: writing my own scripts, and helping other writers find theirs.

I currently teach screenwriting at University at Masters’ level, write a regular column on storytelling for Radio Phénix, and mentor emerging talent at Moho4Young. I also host Pilot Light Your Writing, a podcast for novelists, screenwriters, and anyone trying to turn an idea into something real.

A decade in classrooms, writers’ rooms, and one-to-one sessions have taught me one thing above all: every writer already has the story only they can tell.

Like most people, I’ve known real loss in my life and it’s given me a deep respect for anyone brave enough to write something true. That’s what I try to bring out in every writer I work with.

What most people need isn’t more inspiration, it’s structure, support, honest feedback, and someone who knows the craft well enough to tell them what’s actually working. That’s what I bring to coaching: practical tools, clear structure, a little tough love when a scene needs it, and a genuine belief that your story is worth finishing.

I coach in both English and French, based in Normandy – though most of my work happens wherever writers are stuck and need a way through.