Writing
Learn to write stories, articles and poetry in the same college where big names in literature such as Dylan Thomas, Andrea Levy and Malorie Blackman have trained or taught. Our short writing courses take place in the evenings, daytimes and at weekends, and are suitable for all levels - whether you're just starting out or ready to publish your first book. All our writing courses are taught by practicing writers.
Student stories
Discover the impact studying at City Lit had for published poet Peter Ebsworth.
City Lit's writing students frequently go on to further study or publication. Read their success stories here.
Read tips for writers battling with self-doubt from tutor Helen Cox.
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Writing highlights
Journalism
Introductory & general creative writing courses
Writing for stage and screen
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Writing for children: a taster
Course Date: Sun 20 May 2018
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetDevelop your ideas for children's stories in a practical interactive session. Topics will include plot, characterisation and viewpoint, and how to approach the children's publishing industry today.Full fee: £59.00Senior fee: £59.00Concession: £24.00 -
Beyond Elizabeth Bennet: writing the modern-day romance
Course Date: Wed 23 May 2018
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetIt is a truth universally acknowledged that a writer in possession of a single pen can compose an unforgettable romance novel. This six-week course will chaperone students through the plotting of modern romance stories.Full fee: £109.00Senior fee: £109.00Concession: £44.00 -
Novel plotting workshop
Course Date: Sun 27 May 2018
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetAn advanced course for those seriously engaged in writing a novel, you will look in greater depth at the mythic theory of plotting. The class atmosphere is supportive, but candid and serious. Please enrol only if you have completed 'Introduction to novel plotting'.Full fee: £189.00Senior fee: £189.00Concession: £76.00 -
Ways into creative writing: an introduction
Course Date: Fri 1 Jun 2018 (and 3 other dates)
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetNot sure whether creative writing is for you? Give it a try over six fun sessions covering the basics of fiction and poetry. Increase your confidence and produce work through guided exercises and discussion.Full fee: £109.00Senior fee: £109.00Concession: £44.00 -
Writing inspiration jam
Course Date: Sat 2 Jun 2018
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetThis fun, inspiring day workshop explores the many sources of inspiration available to writers in their everyday lives.Full fee: £59.00Senior fee: £59.00Concession: £24.00 -
Writing news and features: a taster
Course Date: Sat 9 Jun 2018
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetFancy learning some journalism basics? This taster workshop introduces students to the fundamental skills every budding journalist needs. The course explores the language and structure of news and feature articles.Full fee: £59.00Senior fee: £59.00Concession: £24.00 -
The City Lit festival of writing
Course Date: Sat 9 Jun 2018
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetJoin us for an inspiring day of talks, readings and panels from authors, poets and publishing industry insiders, on the theme of writing for the 21st century.Full fee: £49.00Senior fee: £49.00Concession: £49.00 -
Writing press releases
Course Date: Sat 9 Jun 2018
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetNews editors are inundated with badly written press releases. How do you get yours noticed? Learn the basics of writing effective press releases for business and the public sector, and get feedback on your own work.Full fee: £59.00Senior fee: £59.00Concession: £24.00 -
Exploring creativity: from words to stories
Course Date: Sun 10 Jun 2018
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetEscape the constraints of the logical mind through creative games with writing and imagination. Give yourself permission to play and generate raw material for your art on this stimulating one-day course.Full fee: £59.00Senior fee: £59.00Concession: £24.00 -
Crime writing: an introduction
Course Date: Sat 16 Jun 2018
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetDevelop your skills in crime writing and explore the techniques behind character, plot, dialogue, pacing and atmosphere. Benefit from stimulating writing exercises, feedback and encouragement.Full fee: £59.00Senior fee: £59.00Concession: £24.00 -
Writing for fashion
Course Date: Sat 16 Jun 2018
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetFashion journalism is a writing skill that never goes out of style. This day workshop covers industry basics, from high street trends to high-end couture, and explores approaches to crafting articles for fashion blogs, glossy magazines and everything in between.Full fee: £59.00Senior fee: £59.00Concession: £24.00 -
Autobiography into fiction
Course Date: Sat 16 Jun 2018 (and 1 other date)
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetLearn how to turn real-life experiences into gripping fiction. Develop your writing and explore techniques for transforming personal stories into written narratives, realistic or fantastical.Full fee: £59.00Senior fee: £59.00Concession: £24.00 -
A taste of creative writing
Course Date: Sat 23 Jun 2018 (and 2 other dates)
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetGive creative writing a try on this fun and supportive one-day course. Ideal if you want to express yourself but need help in getting started. Guided exercises will encourage you to experiment and unlock your imagination.Full fee: £59.00Senior fee: £59.00Concession: £24.00 -
How to write a novel synopsis
Course Date: Sun 24 Jun 2018
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetThis one-day workshop teaches students how to write a synopsis of their completed manuscript, an essential requirement of submitting to agents and publishers.Full fee: £59.00Senior fee: £59.00Concession: £24.00 -
Character as a driving force in fiction
Course Date: Sat 14 Jul 2018
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetIn fiction, character and plot are inseparable elements of craft. Without characters in stories there can be no action, and without characters acting there can be no plot. In this course you'll learn how to create characters that can drive a narrative forward and deepen its themes.Full fee: £59.00Senior fee: £59.00Concession: £24.00