In this workshop BAFTA-award winning global content specialist, Justin Scroggie, format creator and trainer with 30 years’ experience in the industry, known internationally as The Format Doctor will bring participants through why the location and sets are key to successful TV formats.
Every format happens somewhere - on a studio set, a fixed-rig environment, a pre-existing venue or an exterior location. And in most successful and enduring TV formats, the set or location is a key part of the format, from game shows to reality, dating to cooking, interview to hidden camera.
And yet ... all too often the essential component of ‘place’ is overlooked in format development, leaving location scouts looking for a pretty backdrop, or set designers trying to find a new way to put LED panels against a black cyc.
In this session, Justin demonstrates how to build the ‘where’ into the ‘what’ and the ‘how from the get-go, using successful examples from around the world. He will show you how to understand the many ways a set or location can help drive the engine of your narrative structure, guide participants to Decision Points, and offer the director visual stories to tell.
We at NRK, have several times had the privilege of Justin’s analytic approach and very useful advice, when developing new non-scripted formats for our viewers. He is warmly recommended.
- Ase Bendikson, Head of International Sales, NRK (Norway)
Justin’s Format Bible Template is the industry standard for any working format producer. It’s also a masterclass for any creative looking to truly get to know the potential of their own idea. It gave me a map, led to new show dynamics, and helped me formulate a business plan— rocketing the value and shareability of the idea.
- Billy Schultz, Producer (USA)
Our trainees went on a deep dive into the world of formats with Justin, learning everything from the format bible and treatments to mathematics and mechanics to ethics and entertainment. Justin’s firsthand accounts and anecdotes are as entertaining as his session content and he has the ability to work with a range of ages and levels of experience, altering this content to suit.
- Claire Scally, MD, TRC Media
This workshop is aimed towards creative producers and TV production personnel.
Please apply online below by Thursday, 14th June 2026.
Participants will be notified on the status of their application on Monday, 18th June 2026.
Screen Ireland skills opportunities are open to all regardless of age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, disability, civil status, family status and membership of the Traveller community. If you require supports, please let us know in advance so we can put these in place to assist your learning.
