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.
For the latest news, courses, events and competitions, stay in touch with the Department on Facebook and Twitter.
Writing highlights
Journalism
Introductory & general creative writing courses
Writing for stage and screen
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Writing the city
Course Date: Sat 18 Aug 2018
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetCities are complex, rich and filled with possibilities for great fiction. Learn how to craft vibrant urban settings in this course that combines writing exercises with an exploration of cities in texts both old and new.Full fee: £59.00Senior fee: £59.00Concession: £24.00 -
Screenwriting: an introduction
Course Date: Sun 19 Aug 2018
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetWant to write scripts but don't know how to start? This nuts and bolts workshop covers the basics of scriptwriting, designed to help you shape up your ideas and get your story going.Full fee: £59.00Senior fee: £59.00Concession: £24.00 -
Ways into screenwriting
Course Date: Mon 24 Sep 2018 (and 4 other dates)
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetLearn to write for the screen on this practical, introductory course. Writing exercises, presentations and screenings will teach you key skills, and you’ll begin to produce work and an outline for a full-length project.Full fee: £199.00Senior fee: £199.00Concession: £80.00 -
Advanced playwriting
Course Date: Mon 24 Sep 2018 (and 1 other date)
Location on this date: FRA - Fashion Retail AcademyContinue to explore the key elements of dramatic writing, and benefit from supportive and detailed feedback on your own work in this advanced course. New students with extensive playwriting experience are welcome to join.Full fee: £199.00Senior fee: £199.00Concession: £80.00 -
Advanced critical workshop: fiction
Course Date: Mon 24 Sep 2018 (and 5 other dates)
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetFor experienced writers, this supportive but rigorous workshop offers the perfect opportunity to develop your novel or short story. Receive in-depth feedback and benefit from detailed group discussions on the art of fiction.Full fee: £199.00Senior fee: £199.00Concession: £80.00 -
Developing your novel
Course Date: Mon 24 Sep 2018 (and 2 other dates)
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetHave you started work on your novel? This course is ideal if you are an experienced creative writer and want to explore the principles of novel writing in a supportive workshop environment.Full fee: £199.00Senior fee: £199.00Concession: £80.00 -
Writing skills for creative writers
Course Date: Mon 24 Sep 2018 (and 2 other dates)
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetGreat poetry and prose begin when the writer puts the right words in the right places. Learn how and why the rules and conventions of language matter in this course, which combines creative writing with opportunities to learn/revise essential points of grammar and useful literary concepts. Suitable for beginning writers looking to build confidence, and those with more experience who would like to practise these essential skills.Full fee: £199.00Senior fee: £199.00Concession: £80.00 -
Writing comics and graphic novels
Course Date: Mon 24 Sep 2018
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetLearn the skills to write comics on this introductory course. Discover the history and key features of the medium, generate your own project, and receive advice from special guests.Full fee: £119.00Senior fee: £119.00Concession: £48.00 -
Writing fiction
Course Date: Mon 24 Sep 2018 (and 8 other dates)
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetDevelop your writing with confidence on this course, as we explore character, structure and plot development on the journey to producing quality fiction.Full fee: £199.00Senior fee: £199.00Concession: £80.00 -
Developing your poetry
Course Date: Mon 24 Sep 2018 (and 2 other dates)
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetFor those familiar with the basics of poetic form, this intermediate course explores craft and content through reading exercises, writing exercises and constructive feedback. Ideal if you have already attended 'Ways into poetry'.Full fee: £199.00Senior fee: £199.00Concession: £80.00 -
Ways into creative writing
Course Date: Mon 24 Sep 2018 (and 15 other dates)
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetWant to have a go at creative writing in a supportive atmosphere? Join one of these introductory courses. Guided exercises will give you the tools to explore language creatively and find your own writing voice.Full fee: £199.00Senior fee: £199.00Concession: £80.00 -
The essay - academic writing
Course Date: Mon 24 Sep 2018 (and 2 other dates)
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetA crash course in essay writing – beginnings, middles and ends. Suitable for students on A-level and access courses or undergraduates. For full-time students, there is a special reduced fee of £27.Full fee: £89.00Senior fee: £89.00Concession: £36.00 -
Masterclass: fiction workshop
Course Date: Mon 24 Sep 2018 (and 3 other dates)
Location on this date: KS - Keeley StreetThis intensive fiction workshop is open by selective application to a maximum of ten fiction writers working at the advanced and professional levels. You will receive rigorous constructive feedback on your novel or short story as you develop it with a view to publication, and participate in detailed tutor-led discussions on advanced elements of fictional craft.Full fee: £179.00Senior fee: £179.00Concession: £179.00 -
Advanced creative non-fiction: turning experience into art
Course Date: Tue 25 Sep 2018
Location on this date: FRA - Fashion Retail AcademyWeave the rich strands of your personal experience into an intricate story that will entertain and educate readers. Ideal if you've attended 'Creative non-fiction' or already have a specific project planned out.Full fee: £199.00Senior fee: £199.00Concession: £80.00 -
Writing for children: workshop
Course Date: Tue 25 Sep 2018 (and 6 other dates)
Location on this date: FRA - Fashion Retail AcademyFor experienced children's writers, this ongoing workshop offers an opportunity to develop your work-in-progress with constructive feedback from tutor and classmates. You need to have completed a ‘Writing for children’ course before joining this class.Full fee: £199.00Senior fee: £199.00Concession: £80.00