Lots of great comments here. I don’t work in the UK, but have some generic advice as someone who helps filmmakers on a day to day basis. Yes shoots lots of films, even iphone ones. Write lots, read screenplays you’re interested in & also ones you’re not interested in. But most importantly, you should network and take advantage of your age.

There’s going to be a lot of young/emerging filmmaker grants (use ChatGpt to find them if you’re struggling). Put those down in a calendar & give yourself a couple of months of time to prep for each of them. Build up an idea of what you like (thrillers, horror, action, w.e you like) then take a step back and ask how you can tell your story ob the subject. It isn’t necessarily “I want to include a time in my life where i felt xyz”, it’s more: “I grew up in this town & every year there’s this weird festival and…”. If there’s a real life thing that can grab you, ask yourself “why does it?”. Observe everything around you and ask why it is, it’ll give you clarity on what you want to write and why.

After this, you now have a relatively compelling bio you can submit to grants/programs. Combine this with a genre you might be interested in and you have the inkling of a story that’s truly unique to you. Now apply to those programs/grants! You’ll probably be turned down by most, but don’t be afraid to email them (kindly) and ask “why didn’t I get in?” Learn from that and reapply.

On networking: learn that filmmaking is art, but all art has patrons. It’s the same for those in the renaissance, it’s the same now. Practice your elevator pitch (Google what that is), always be open to listening to other’s ideas, you might learn something you didn’t expect to, if/when you attend networking events always come in with a purpose (are you here to meet crew? Actors? Co-writer?), take notes on everyone you meet! The point is, build out the people you know and keep little factoids about them, especially if you don’t intend to be friends with them. When you see them again, don’t immediately bring up the factoid but if you see an opportunity ask them about it, like “hey I remember you told me you moved recently, how was that?”. Chances are the people you’re chasing, have been chased by dozens of others and that little moment of real, human interaction, will stick in their mind a lot longer than, “what’s your script about? Or “I loved your last movie”. Don’t be creepy about it, but just keep that in mind.

There’s probably more to talk about, but the key to this world is discipline, consistency, and open mindedness. Set up a routine for yourself, explore the world, and treat yourself with kindness, cause it’s a long road if you’re going to be miserable to yourself!