Write, Connect, Belong

If you're a parent or a grandparent, there are probably a few stories you could recite by heart. Even if you're not, you can probably remember those stories you chose to read in childhood again and again (...and again).

Either way, you might have a brilliant idea for a children's book, film or TV show but have no idea how- or where- to start.

We've got you!

This six week beginners course will guide you through the fundamentals of story telling and explore fiction for toddlers to young adults to inspire you to write exactly the kind of stories children will want to come back to again and again (... and again).

(Price stated for full six week course. Instalment options available on request. Contact getintouch@orwrite.com for more information.)

Turn your novel idea into a structured, compelling story. This eight-week course helps you develop characters, plot, and direction so you can start writing with confidence.

Take your writing further with this friendly and practical 12-week course.

Through guided exercises, group discussion and constructive feedback, you’ll explore the essential building blocks of effective writing, including character, plot, setting, genre and the basic rules that help bring a piece together.

You’ll experiment with prose, poetry and scriptwriting while developing your own ideas and discovering the forms and styles that suit you best. Whether you’ve completed an introductory course or already enjoy writing independently, this workshop will help you build confidence, improve your technique and keep your creativity flowing.

The course runs on Fridays from 1pm–3pm at Stoke Methodist Church, from 18 September to 11 December 2026. There is no session on 30 October.

Places are limited to 12 participants.

Ever had a story idea you wished you could turn into a book? Or watched a film and wondered what it would feel like to see your own story on screen — but never know where to start?

This six-week Creative Writing course is designed especially for complete beginners. In a friendly and relaxed environment, you'll explore the foundations of storytelling and discover how writers bring ideas to life on the page.

Across the course, you'll experiment with different forms of writing, from short stories and novels to poetry and scriptwriting, while learning essential techniques such as:

• Developing characters
• Building engaging plots
• Creating believable worlds
• Exploring genre and style
• Finding and developing story ideas

Each session includes guided exercises, discussion, and time to explore your own ideas. There is no pressure to share your work unless you want to — the focus is on creativity, exploration, and building confidence.

No previous writing experience is needed—just curiosity and imagination.

Give it a try after all, who knows where your imagination might take you.

(Price stated for full six-week course. Instalment options available on request — contact getintouch@orwrite.com for details.)