Part-time adult education, evening classes: London: City Lit

Writing a short film

Write the script for a short film over two days while learning about the fundamentals of screenwriting through tutor input, writing exercises, group work and discussion.

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Key course information

Dates
19/06/11 - 26/06/11

Day(s)
Sun

Duration
2 weeks

Time
10:30 - 16:30

Fees
Full fee: £90^NC

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HW225

Availability
Available
(status updated every 15 mins)

^NC: No concessionary fees available as there is no government funding for this course.

Enrol now

Call enrolments: 020 7831 7831

Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

Each session will begin with news of students’ current work and the publishing scene. Four writers will present work to the group at each meeting. The work should be typed and double spaced as the pieces will be read by another member of the group. This allows the writer to listen. During the discussion, which encompasses the whole group, the writer is asked to listen only or take notes. We are thereby able to discuss the work without any personal interaction with the author which might then bias the discussion. Finally the author is free to comment on the discussion.

What topics will we cover?

The course is suitable for those writing fiction for all age groups from babies to teenagers. Each reading should be 10-15 minutes long so, generally, either a whole picture book or a chapter of a longer novel can be brought in for discussion.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- Respond to and assess pieces of writing with sensitivity
- Receive an unbiased critical appraisal of your work by your peers and the tutor, within a supportive atmosphere
- Redraft your work, taking into account the feedback you received
- Identify ways of marketing your manuscript.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

All workshop members will preferably have completed the introductory ‘Writing for Children’ course at City Lit. However, other students are welcome if they are already published authors or if they are otherwise actively involved in writing for children. The workshop is not suitable for those who think they might like to write for children but have no prior experience in this area. You should not enrol for both the introductory course and this one at the same time.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

You will be taught by group discussion and feedback. You are required to be actively writing outside the class so that you have work to bring each time it is your turn.

The Tutor
Phil O'Shea is an established screenwriter with feature film and TV credits as well as six international awards to his name. He has a degree from Essex University, a diploma in Film and TV production from Middlesex University and a teaching qualification. His screenwriting tutors have included iconic names such as Sam Fuller and Karel Reisz. His credits include the BBC series 'Oscar Charlie', 'Dream Team', 'Wycliffe' Dark Knight etc and he recently won best film at the Milan International Film Festival for the feature film, 'Vampire Diary' which he wrote and co-directed.

City lit reserves the right to change course tutors or venues from those advertised in this outline. In line with our refund policy we are unable to grant a refund on the grounds of a change of tutor/venue.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Bring a pen and paper.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 201 of the 10-11 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Any course on film and TV writing.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30

Contact us

Humanities