Creative Writing Workshops
I’ve run writing workshops in schools (primary and secondary), colleges, libraries, community centres and prisons. I’m able to draw on my teaching experience for classroom management or dealing with (heaven forbid) reluctant participants while being able to approach the process of writing as a practitioner myself.
| “The children were all so thoroughly engaged and were thrilled to be introduced to new skills in script writing. Your management of the wide age and ability range was sensitive and effective….it was such a harmonious and productive experience it should serve as a beacon of good practice.” Sue Kennedy (former Head teacher – Thoresby primary school) |
A workshop can address a specified theme (eg bullying), a skill (eg writing dialogue) or be completely open-ended when what is required is simply an injection of fresh creative ideas! The most important thing is that it meets the needs of that group or institution and is not just a pre-packaged session that has been churned out before. Click here for a sample powerpoint presentation for an adult group and click here for a sample workshop for Year 9 students on writing monologues.
| “The writing workshop on short stories here at HMP Morton Hall went extremely well: nine women took part and clearly enjoyed the session. They have given me very positive comments on the usefulness of the afternoon’s writing and discussion. I feel sure that Sue Wilsea’s session, advice and materials will prove very helpful to them in the creative projects here in the prison.” Stephen Wade, Project Leader, Talk the Tale, Read the Tale |
How many and how much?
An ideal number for a writing workshop is 12-15 but I have worked successfully with considerably larger groups than this.
Workshops are always tailored to individual needs and fees charged cover the cost of preparation work, meetings before the event and, if wanted, follow-up / evaluation. Thus they are variable but to give you an idea my full day rate starts at £250 (not including travel)
| “During her writing residency at the school Sue worked with pupils from Years 8 and 10 as well as pupils from our feeder primaries on the theme of Picture This…. Sue provided a fabulous, exciting experience over the two days enabling pupils to really think outside the box and produce some creative and inspiring writing. Her passion, enthusiasm and patience rubbed off on the pupils who were thoroughly engaged in finding talents they never knew they had!” Chimene Wass – Head of English, Newland School for Girls |
Residencies / Longer –term projects
I have also undertaken extended projects where I’ve worked in a school for several consecutive days or delivered sessions over a period of time. This sort of work can often culminate in a publication and / or a performance. When I worked at Wyke College a significant part of my job was event management and I therefore have a lot of experience in the logistics of organising such things! For example, in 2008 I co-ordinated a writing project For the First Time which produced an anthology with contributors from learners aged 8-80.
