Ref: SWE36375
On this course, you will discover ways to build your confidence to write fiction. Together, we will explore the reasons why writing fiction is so daunting, even for experienced writers, and look at techniques that can help you when you feel resistance to writing the novels, short stories, plays or films that you want to write.
In a relaxed and supportive environment, you will have the opportunity to explore your route to enjoying writing fiction. You will take part in fun creative exercises to build your confidence and resilience, and learn how you can keep going or get restarted when you feel daunted by the task or the exposure of fiction writing, whether you are writing for private pleasure or with the goal of professional publication. You will also look at some of the technical (literary, not word-processor!) problems you can encounter in writing fiction that can lead to feeling blocked or unconfident, and find out how to avoid them.
There will also be opportunities to discuss your writing aims and projects, both with the group and with the tutor privately, and to get personal constructive feedback on your writing to help you gain the confidence to believe in your aims and abilities. Bring a sample of your novel or synopsis or idea if you would like to, and you and the tutor can look at it together.
By the end of this largely experiential course, the aim is to discover how to enjoy the process of fiction-writing instead of being daunted by it. You will have learned tools and tried out techniques to help get past barriers to fiction-writing, to write with greater freedom, productivity and confidence.
On this course, the tutor will supply any necessary materials.
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).
Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included)
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential
Daily timetable
Course teaching 9.15am - 5pm (lunch included)
Dinner: from 6.30pm (included for residential students)
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed
Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm (lunch included)
Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am
Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required
Rebecca is a best-selling novelist who has also worked for many years as a script writer and editor in the West End theatre. She has been teaching fiction writing for the past decade and has worked as an editor and coach with more than a hundred different novelists.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
If you’re looking to complete the first draft of a novel and learn about the publishing process. The two-year, part-time MA Creative Writing and Publishing is taught by professional authors and visiting industry professionals. Find out more
