creative writing workshops cambridge

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Focus on fiction: A series of workshops with Cambridge University’s creative writing tutors

Hone your storytelling skills and energise your writing with Professor Jem Poster and Dr Sarah Burton of the University of Cambridge creative writing programme

Dates: Four Saturdays; January 11, February 8, March 7, April 18 2020 Times: Full-day course, 10am-4pm

Book now – and save over £50!

Whether you are a beginner when it comes to writing fiction, or you’d simply like to sharpen and energise your practice, this four-part series with Professor Jem Poster and Dr Sarah Burton , will boost your confidence and help you develop key skills. Currently leading the master’s degree course in creative writing at the University of Cambridge, between them Jem and Sarah have over 30 years’ experience and have published fiction, non-fiction and poetry.

You will work in a supportive and relaxed environment, participate in practical exercises and be able to receive feedback and ask any questions you may have during the sessions. Although you are encouraged to sign up for the entire series to best develop your writing, you also have the option to attend individual sessions, bookable via links below.

Memory and imagination - Saturday 11 January 2020 (This class has passed)

Bringing together discussion and practical exercises, you will examine the nature of memory and imagination, and the creative chemistry of their interaction.

Character and plot - Saturday 8 February 2020 (This class has passed)

Discover how characters reveal themselves through speech and action, how plot may determine character, and how character may influence plot.

Point of view and narrative voice - Saturday 7 March 2020

When you have your story and your characters, how do you decide the point of entry for your reader? First person or third person? Reliable or unreliable narrator? One point of view or several? Whose voice do you want the reader to “hear”? All stories pivot on the question of which character knows what and – crucially – what your reader knows and when you let them know it.

Time and place - Saturday 18 April 2020

How do you create atmosphere and make your readers feel as though they are “really there”? How do you inspire a strong sense of time and place without holding up the narrative? This session will explore the ways in which you can evoke environment, from the intimate and domestic to the epic landscape, and make context work for your story.

Tutor profiles

Jem Poster is the author of two novels – Courting Shadows and Rifling Paradise – as well as a collection of poetry, Brought to Light. He has also recently completed Volume 3 of the six-volume series, Edward Thomas: Prose Writings. He has won major prizes in the Cardiff International Poetry and the Peterloo Poets Open Poetry competitions. He is emeritus professor of creative writing at Aberystwyth University and has been chair of the editorial board of New Welsh Review and programme advisor to the Cambridge Institute of Continuing Education’s MSt in creative writing. He is currently director of the institute’s international summer programme in creative writing and is an affiliated lecturer of the institute. He is director of academic programmes for the Financial Times Oxford Literary Festival and in 2014 was writer in residence at Arizona State University.

Sarah Burton was founder of the creative writing MSt at Cambridge University’s Institute of Continuing Education and was its director from 2013 to 2017. Her publications include two critically acclaimed biographies, Impostors: Six Kinds of Liar and A Double Life: A Biography of Charles and Mary Lamb, which was shortlisted for the Mind Book of the Year award; a children’s book, The Miracle in Bethlehem: A Storyteller’s Tale; a page-to-stage guide, How to Put on a Community Play, and the humorous Complete and Utter History of the World By Samuel Stewart, Aged 9.

Dates: Saturday 11 January, Saturday 8 February, Saturday 7 March, Saturday 18 April 2020 Times: Full-day course, 10am-4pm Location: The Guardian, Kings Place, 90 York Way, London N1 9GU Price: £309.60 plus £7.80 booking fee Event capacity: 32

Complimentary lunch and refreshments included.

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The science of storytelling with Will Storr

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Home › Creative Writing Summer School › Cambridge › Creative Writing Summer School in Cambridge (Ages 16-18)

Creative Writing Summer School in Cambridge (Ages 16-18)

The Immerse Education Creative Writing Summer Programme in Cambridge offers a transformative literary experience for budding writers aged 16-18. Set in the historic city of Cambridge, UK, this programme provides an immersive exploration of creative writing techniques, storytelling, and literary analysis within an intellectually stimulating and culturally diverse environment. 

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Participants would recommend Immerse

Explore Creative Writing in Cambridge

Immerse Education’s Creative Writing Summer Programme in Cambridge for students aged 16-18, offers a unique and immersive experience for aspiring writers. This exceptional program provides participants with the opportunity to refine their literary skills in one of the most prestigious academic settings in the world. Through a blend of workshops, seminars, and one-on-one mentoring, participants are encouraged to explore their creative boundaries, craft compelling narratives, and develop their unique writing voices.

Moreover, the Cambridge environment, steeped in literary history and academic excellence, serves as an inspirational backdrop for participants to immerse themselves in the world of storytelling. Immerse Education’s Creative Writing programme in Cambridge is an enriching and transformative experience that equips participants with the tools and confidence to pursue their passion for writing at a higher level.

Creative Writing Programme in Cambridge (Ages 16-18) with Immerse

Our programme is designed for 16-18 year old secondary / high school participants who are eager to understand the dynamics of business management and its practical implications. This immersive journey provides valuable insights into the world of commerce and strategy.

• Creative Writing

Why Study Creative Writing in Cambridge with Immerse?

Average Class Size of 7

Maximum class size of 10 participants

1:1 Tutorials

Supportive, challenging and engaging

Undergraduate Level

University-style subjects to inspire your future

World-Class Tutors

Academics from Oxford and Cambridge

Programme Outcomes

Want to learn more?

Through our programmes, you’ll embark on an exhilarating journey of self-discovery and creativity. Our personalised approach empowers you to design and execute a university style personal project that reflects your passions and interests. This project is your canvas to showcase newfound knowledge, skills, and innovative thinking. Expect to bring your ideas to life and make a meaningful impact.

Our programmes equip you with a diverse skill set that’s applicable across various disciplines and environments. From communication and critical thinking to problem-solving and collaboration, you’ll cultivate skills that are highly sought after in today’s fast-paced world. These skills extend beyond academia and empower you to thrive in any professional or personal setting.

Immerse Education is dedicated to providing an immersive and holistic educational experience. Beyond the structured curriculum, you’ll engage in workshops, seminars, and interactive activities that broaden your horizons. Expect to explore diverse perspectives, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and gain insights that enrich your understanding of the world.

Upon successfully completing your Immerse Education programme, you’ll earn a Certificate of Achievement that validates your dedication and growth. This certificate serves as a testament to your hard work, commitment, and the valuable skills you’ve acquired. It’s a tangible representation of your journey and a noteworthy addition to your academic and professional portfolio.

Enrolling in an Immerse Education programme means becoming a part of a vibrant and supportive community. As well as having personalised support during the programme from your tutor and like-minded indivdiuals, our network of participants, mentors, and experts extends beyond the programme’s duration. You’ll have access to a lifelong learning community that encourages collaboration, idea-sharing, and networking. This community serves as a continuous resource for guidance, inspiration, and growth throughout your educational and career journey.

What Do Our Alumni Say?

The Immerse Creative Writing programme has been great. Lesson times are a perfect 2 hours in the morning, 2 hours in the afternoon, with lots of time to go and experience the town and have activities in the evenings.

I’ve really enjoyed being around people who have the same interests as me. Being able to share opinions and listen to feedback has been really valuable.

My tutor has been great. He’s very passionate about writing and he’s very engaging with the class. He listens to all our thoughts and our opinions on everything that we study – he’s been brilliant.

The programme has been a very good opportunity to get a grasp on what university is like – It gives us an opportunity to make new friends, which is good for your social skills, and you get an idea of what university classes might be like.

The curriculum is nothing like I’ve ever seen before, which is great. It’s nothing like what I do at school, which means I have the ability to experiment, and learn new things and along the way just improve my general skills.

Academic Insights, Creative Writing

Meet some of our Cambridge Tutors

An example of the Oxbridge tutors who have previously worked on our programmes.

George is a Lecturer in Medieval English at St Anne's College and St Hilda's College, Oxford. He holds a BA in English Literature from Durham University, an MSt in English (650-1550) from Mansfield College, Oxford, and a DPhil (PhD) from St Anne’s College, Oxford.

Examples of Alumni Projects

A look at the past projects that have been completed by the end of our academic programmes.

Accreditations, Awards & Partnerships

An Experience to Remember

Live and study in a Cambridge University College

All participants will be allocated to a college a few weeks before arriving, based on their dates and subject choice. If you would like to stay in the same location as a friend/sibling – please let us know and we will do our best to arrange this, where possible.

Males and females have separate accommodation in every college, and there is wi-fi available throughout. For more information, please visit this page .

Fine-dine in Formal Hall

Traditional Formal Dinner is a Three Course Meal that align with each College’s Traditions. Our participants get to experience two typical Cambridge College traditions during their stay. One during the first week of their arrivals and one after their Graduation ceremony

Outside of lessons, we are proud to offer a busy and diverse social programme to help you get the most out of your time in Cambridge. This includes activities such as punting on the River Cam, Scavenger Hunt and a murder mystery night in the college.

Day Excursions

There are also two excursions during the programme, one day trip to visit Oxford and its constituent colleges, as well as an optional day out in London, seeing the city’s most famous landmarks as well as some free time for shopping.

Guest Speakers from Previous Summers

Each week, Academic Insights participants will hear from an influential guest speaker from a variety of inspiring backgrounds.

Microsoft’s first ever Head of Digital Marketing Strategy, this business transformation manager is now an advisor and motivational speaker for world-leading organisations including Vodafone.

This Global Brand Director has helped to build some of the most successful brands in the tech and consumer goods industries, including Innocent, Vinted, Uber and Coca Cola.

Our Mentors

All mentors on our programmes are past/current participants at Oxford or Cambridge University. All of our support staff are background-checked and receive training in providing an unforgettable experience for every Immerse participant. Meet some of our previous team:

Participant Welfare and Safety

Immerse Education is accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC), the leading mark of educational quality for the academic sector.

The safety and well-being of our participants is our number one priority, and all staff undergo enhanced background checks and receive thorough safeguarding training before interacting with any participants.

For more information, please visit our Pastoral Information page.

Why Immerse?

Immerse Education offers a lot more than your average summer school provider. Our programmes ignite a lifelong educational journey, nurturing growth with ongoing educational support, while equipping you with essential skill sets for every step of your education pathways.

We cater to all types of learners, offering academic and career programmes with flexible learning options, and offer our award-winning programmes in locations across the globe.

We have the highest educational standards and seek to realise the highest possible outcomes for our participants.

Enrolling in an Immerse Education programme will award you:

• Superior and future-forward curriculum
• Exceptional tutors with deep academic and industry experience
• Dedication to personalised learning and real outcomes
• Career opportunities through our alumni network events
• Access to exclusive Immerse programme discounts

Enrol in our Programme Today

Immerse provides unparalleled educational experiences with long-term post-programme support.

Academic Insights

Non - residential, view features.

• Total Programme Duration: 2 Weeks
• Total Teaching and Coaching time: 40 Hours
• Tuition by an Academic Expert, PhD (typically Oxford, Cambridge or Ivy League)
• Support from Designated Mentors
• 1:1 Support
• Guest Speaker Sessions
• Max Class Size: 10
• Completion of a Personal Project to be added to your CV / University Application
• Personalised evaluation from your tutor
• Alignment with essential skills for each subject area
• Certificate of Attendance
• Daily Meals - Dinner (weekdays)
• Tailored Cultural and Social Activities (weekend excursions not included )
• Dedicated Support from the Immerse Team

Online Research Programme Benefits

• Total Teaching Time: 10 Hours
• Average Class Size: 1:1 Only
• Completion of a Undergraduate-level research paper
• Invitation to Present at the Immerse Symposium and win an Award
• Dedicated Support from the Immerse Online Team
• Daily Meals - Breakfast + Dinner
• 13 Nights at University Accommodation
• Tailored Cultural and Social Activities
• Dedicated support from the Immerse Team

Recommended

Classic + Online Research Programme

Additional Programme Benefits

• Access to Membership Benefits and Events from Partners
• Life-time Access to Learning Opportunities via the Immerse Alumni Network
• Live Events
• Exclusive Offers from our Partners

Immerse Participants Go On To Top Universities Worldwide

Cambridge’s literary heritage and inspiring landscapes create a nurturing environment for creative writing. Immerse yourself in a community of writers, attend literary events, and find inspiration in the city’s history.

Immerse Education offers online and residential courses in Creative Writing.

To gain insight into the subjects covered in the Cambridge Creative Writing course, you can access the downloadable syllabus.

Other Locations we offer Creative Writing

• Academic Pathways

Creative Writing in Oxford

Creative writing in sydney, creative writing online, immerse™ creative writing sample modules.

To see how the programme is structured, download the Academic Insights timetable here.

In this introductory module, you will challenge conventional assumptions of writing in the 21st Century. You’ll have the opportunity to discuss preferred writing methods and routines, what you hope to achieve on the programme and learn how to combat the dreaded blank page.

From Sherlock Holmes to Jay Gatsby, it is often believed that great characters drive great fiction. In this module, you will assess the clichés and tropes of a range of comedic and conflicted characters, as well as analysing how they can shift the tone and plot of a piece of work.

The very best of authors with a finished manuscript can still experience setbacks from not knowing how the publishing industry works. In this module, you will learn about the various publishing options, from competitions, magazines and traditional publishing, to e-books, self-publication and film writing.

As part of your programme, you will be given the opportunity to produce several pieces of creative work in your chosen subject which will form the basis of a portfolio. Portfolios are a great way to showcase your skill and accomplishments and are essential in university applications to creative subjects, demonstrating your ability in a way grades cannot. As part of this process, you will receive two 1:1 sessions with your expert tutor, who will give you advice and feedback on the development of your portfolio.

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Creative Writing in Cambridge

Join the creative writing cambridge summer school at oxford summer courses.

At Oxford Summer Courses, we invite curious minds to embark on a journey of creative writing exploration through our Creative Writing Cambridge summer school. Tailored for ages 16-24, our unique learning experiences nurture independent thought within an inclusive community, hosted at prestigious Cambridge University colleges, including Fitzwilliam College, Sidney Sussex College, and Corpus Christi College. Each course runs for two weeks, offering comprehensive learning opportunities. Prices start from £6,395. Apply now to study Creative Writing and embark on a transformative summer school journey with Oxford Summer Courses.

Choose your Creative Writing school in Cambridge

Creative Writing

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Bree, Canada

"the creative writing course helped me properly analyse famous writers’ works in order to fully understand them while letting me create my own short stories and poems.".

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Creative writing workshops events in Cambridge, United Kingdom

Let's Write: Creative Writing Workshop - FREE EVENT

Sun, May 19, 11:00 AM

Southern Maltings

Sun, May 19, 12:00 PM

Starting to Write Workshop

Tue, Apr 23, 11:00 AM

Biggleswade Library

Creative Writing - The Next Chapter (Term 3)

Wed, Apr 24, 1:30 PM

West Suffolk College In Sudbury

Turn Up and Write

Tomorrow at 6:00 PM + 1 more

5 Fitzroy St

Nature Writing Workshop series~ Going, Going, Gone

Wed, May 22, 10:30 AM

1 Holywell Hill

Heaven is a Place On Earth~ Nature Writing Workshop

Wednesday at 10:30 AM

Creative writing workshop and Little Miss Sunshine screening

Wed, Apr 24, 5:00 PM

Creative Writing Workshop

Thursday at 10:00 AM + 1 more

Southwark Wellbeing Hub

Thu, May 2, 10:00 AM + 5 more

Nature Writing Workshop series~ Summer Loving

Wed, Jul 17, 10:30 AM

Collapsing Time - Creative Writing Workshop

Thu, Apr 25, 7:00 PM

Stone Mini Market

AI Workshop in Cambridge: Practical AI to Transform Your Business

Thursday at 10:00 AM

Marks & Clerk

Creative Writing Workshops in Pimlico

Sun, Apr 28, 10:00 AM + 7 more

"Sketch and Scribe" Workshop, Chelmsford

Thu, May 23, 10:00 AM

Fête at Grays Brewery Yard

Artist Statement Writing Workshop with Elly Clarke

Fri, Apr 26, 10:00 AM

310C Green Lanes

Bid Writing Workshop

Tue, Jun 4, 10:30 AM

The Carnegie

Nature Writing Workshop series~ Tides Are Changing

Wed, Jun 19, 10:30 AM

Breathe Move Write: Yoga x Creative Writing Workshop

Saturday at 1:30 PM

Lost in Yoga

Sunday Scribes

Sun, Apr 28, 2:00 PM

Cambridge Central Library

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Our Courses

Creative writing.

Course Outline

• What's Included?

Availability

• Taster Courses

During the Creative Writing taster course, students learn a range of strategies that help them develop as a writer. With activities designed to spark creativity and exercises aimed at advancing composition skills, this taster helps students to explore their full creative potential. Whether students are interested in writing fiction, poetry or articles, they will find this enriching taster to be a perfect addition to any one of our summer programs.

Want to study more than one course? Choose two subject courses to study if you apply for a 4-week Summer program.

Upon application, select your desired program length and you will be prompted to choose a second course subject when completing your application form.

What’s included?

At Reach Cambridge, we provide the full package. We aim to make things as easy for our families when planning their summer experience.

The program cost includes:

• University college accommodation in central Cambridge
• 24 onsite supervision
• 20 hours academic tuition per week
• Guest Lectures by leading academics on global themes & University Life
• Practical workshops (including leadership, interview skills and public speaking)
• Two meals a day*
• Fun, inclusive & exciting activities and events every afternoon and evening
• 2 coach excursions to exciting cultural highlights in the UK
• Optional supervised airport transfers to and from London Heathrow airport and Cambridge
• End of Program Graduation Celebration
• Course Certificate
• Course report including a suggested academic reading list for the future
• International Student Travel Insurance

For peace of mind:

• 24 hour onsite supervision
• Dedicated welfare staff
• Students accommodated in small corridor groups
• Reach Cambridge dedicated program office
• Daily program blog for all friends, family and students

* ‘Please note that only breakfast is provided on the weekends

Deadlines: Your deposit is due within 7 days of your application, your personal statement is due within 30 days of your application and all remaining items are due by 31st March.

Deadlines : Your deposit is due within 7 days of your application, your personal statement is due within 30 days of your application and all remaining items are due by 31st March.

Tasters Courses

Community outreach, cybersecurity & ai, history & politics, introduction to architecture, introduction to coding, introduction to economics, introduction to psychology, introduction to robotics.

Fancy becoming the next Elon Musk? Start with our Introduction to Robotics taster where you will learn the basics of electronic circuits by building them with your own hands. You will design and construct your own device, and emerge with knowledge and skills needed to begin your journey towards building your own self-driving car!

Music Composition

Philosophy & ethics.

Do you ever wonder about the big questions like what it means to be alive, or how to be good in a world as complicated as ours? Philosophers have been asking these questions for centuries and some of their suggestions may surprise you. This taster asks students to dig in deep and bring their thinking caps with them for sessions all about reality and our place in it. Based on lively, respectful debate and deep contemplation, this taster is perfect for anyone looking to challenge their assumptions and expand their mind.

Pre-Hospital & Emergency Medicine

Study skills, young leaders.

This was honestly an experience I will never forget. On the day I arrived I was a bit shy but after talking with people I realized we were all in the same boat. I have learnt a lot about peoples different cultures and their livelihoods. I have made lifelong friends from all over the world!...

Marios, Law

I really enjoyed this experience and I’ve never felt so connected to a place and the people in it. I’ve met some truly amazing people and will never lose connections with them. This whole program helped me so much and felt like a breath of fresh air.

Richa, Engineering, Business Management & Economics

Reach Cambridge was without a doubt the best experience of my life. I enjoyed the freedom it provided, while being gently introduced to what university life is like. I made some lifelong friends from all over the world, and got to have many interesting debates and discussions in my classes that helped me open my...

Lily, Politics & International Relations

Reach Cambridge was by far the best summer program I have done, filled with amazing and kind people, interesting educational courses, and unforgettable moments.

Sasha, Business Management & Economics

Reach Cambridge was an incredible experience for our daughter. She made friends from all over the world, and had so much fun exploring the city of Cambridge. The teachers and classes were engaging and interesting. The life sciences courses, in particular, got her really excited to study medicine in college. We’re so happy she joined...

Andrea, Parent

I’ve learned so much more than I could ever imagine in this course. It’s also pretty much solidified my choices for university.

Misty, Psychology

I’ve learned new things that I would have never learned at school, and it practically has verified my decision to become a doctor.

Melia, Medicine & Life Sciences

Reach Cambridge has been the best thing I’ve ever been a part of. I absolutely loved every second of it. I’ve enjoyed not only the lessons, but also all of the fun activities.

Zazu, English & Performing Arts

Reach was an amazing experience for me. It’s allowed me to interact with people from all over the world, making me more of a global citizen.

Faisal, Medicine & Life Sciences

This course is very interesting and informative. It gives you a taste of studying in Cambridge and working in the field as a researcher.

Michelle, Biotechnology

Law was the best course I’ve ever taken. I really learnt a lot and it helped guide me to what I want to become in life.

If you’re at all interested in physics, take this course! I’ve learned so much from these amazing teachers, and the topics were engaging, interesting and thought-provoking.

Levente, Physics & Engineering Student

Reach Cambridge is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I loved everything about my experience here. The people that I met, the things that I learnt, were incredible, and I wouldn’t change it for the world.

Liliana, Biotechnology

Reach Cambridge has been an amazing experience and I’m hoping to do it again next year. It teaches you to be independent and manage your time alongside studying things that challenge your thinking process and creativity.

Keziah, Physics & Engineering

Our Summer Programs feature a strong focus on your chosen subject, and leave plenty of time for excursions.

Please note, these are meant as a rough guide only and are subject to change.

Testimonials

The Spring Program is a personalised study program, with students able to join us for either one or two weeks. Combining academic subject study, leadership and study skills, our classes and workshops are complemented by excursions to historical and cultural sites, both within and outside of Cambridge, as well as group activities.

Students gain insight into how to prepare for higher education anywhere in the world, equipping them to become a successful leader and scholar in the 21st century. Workshops and lectures include team-building, presentation skills, debating, study skills, interview skills and community outreach.

Each week there will also be three half-day personalised study sessions. These offer students the chance to explore some of the topics taught at undergraduate level, and access excellent academics in their discipline of choice – the perfect opportunity to experience what it would be like to study their dream course or land their dream job.

Subjects available:

• Business Management & Economics
• Computer Science & Maths
• English Literature
• Medicine & Life Sciences
• Physics & Engineering
• Politics & International Relations

Teaching consists of lectures, workshops, discussions as well as individual and small group work. This mix gives students a feel for how teaching and learning take place at universities all around the world.

Choose two subject courses to study if you apply for a 2-week Spring program. Upon application, select your desired program length and you will be prompted to choose a second course subject when completing your application form.

The Spring Program is perfect for students looking to combine personal academic development with essential learning and leadership skills.

At Reach Cambridge, we provide the full package. We aim to make things as easy for our families when planning their spring experience.

• 3 half-day subject classes/supervisions
• Lectures on global themes & University Life
• Leadership workshops
• Coach excursions to famous, exciting locations in the UK
• Optional supervised airport transfers to and from London Gatwick or Heathrow and Cambridge
• End of program photo

Taster Courses are not available in our Spring Program.

Our Spring Programs feature a strong focus on your chosen subject, and leave plenty of time for excursions.

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Cambridge Creative Writing Summer School (Ages 16-18) (Cambridge, 16-18 years)

Cambridge Creative Writing Summer School (Ages 16-18) (Cambridge, 16-18 years) summer course in Cambridge, by Immerse Education.

Course Summary

The creative writing courses offer the chance for you to develop your writing and enhance your creative writing skills by crafting the stimulating cultural setting of Cambridge – the academic home to some of the world’s greatest literary and creative minds such as John Milton and William Thackeray.Our creative writing courses for budding young writers encourages you to use this setting as inspiration and push the limits of your current writing abilities, working alongside expert university tutors and other like-minded peers. You will learn how to improve your work through various techniques – focussing on areas such as character and plot development, form and much more.

• Average class size of 7
• 1:1 tutorials
• Academic workshops
• World-class tutors
• Certificate & detailed participant evaluation
• Personal project or Creative portfolio
• Experience Oxbridge life
• Enhance key academic skills

What's Included?

• 13 nights accommodation in a central college of the University of Cambridge or Oxford
• Breakfast and dinner in College Hall
• Accommodation in an individual bedroom
• 40 hours of academic sessions from Oxford University and Cambridge University tutors
• Carefully designed study and lecture materials
• Mentor programme and access to support material
• All excursions- including formal dinner at Cambridge/Oxford colleges, punting, croquet
• Comprehensive summer school insurance
• 2 coach excursions including a trip to London
• Graduation ceremony and certificate
• Detailed evaluation written by tutor
• Immerse notebook and pen
• Mentor family photograph
• Free premium membership to UniPrepare's 'Nurture' plan
• academic insights

Accommodation

All participants will be allocated to a college a few weeks before arriving, based on their dates and subject choice.

You will explore novel concepts and share ideas in small groups of like-minded and ambitious peers from around the world. In small class sizes averaging 7 students, you will be guided by expert tutors who have honed their expertise through teaching undergraduate students at world-class universities, including the universities of Cambridge, Oxford, and Harvard. Sample Timetable

Key Details

• Available from: June - August
• Provider: Immerse Education
• Ages: 16-18 years
• Fees: From £5,995.00 / 2 Weeks
• Duration: 2 Weeks

Cambridge University Colleges

Quick enquiry.

A summer school promising students an experience of life in prestigious institutions, alongside the chance to meet like-minded people.

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Cambridge Creative

Writing Company

• Fri, 15 Sept The Box Cafe Specific days at The Box, £25 each 15 Sept 2023, 19:00 – 19 Apr 2024, 21:00 The Box Cafe, 47 Norfolk St, Cambridge CB1 2LD, UK One Friday evening a month we meet at The Box Cafe for writing exercises and creative inspiration. Use this to buy individual evenings (6-8pm) at The Box and let us know the date(s). Options: 19 Jan, 16 Feb, 15 Mar, 19 Apr. Share More information
• Fri, 21 Jun The Box Cafe Summer Friday Evenings at The Box 21 Jun 2024, 18:00 – 02 Aug 2024, 20:00 The Box Cafe, 47 Norfolk St, Cambridge CB1 2LD, UK One Friday evening a month we meet up at The Box cafe in Cambridge and Emily or Menna lead writing exercises. The mood is relaxed and inspiring. 6pm-8pm, Jun 21st, July 19th, August 2nd. Cost is £25 for a single session, sold at a discount for booking two (£40) or all three (£60). Share More information
• Fri, 01 Mar The Box Cafe Workshopping at The Box, March 1st, April 26th, and May 24th 01 Mar 2024, 18:00 – 24 May 2024, 20:00 The Box Cafe, 47 Norfolk St, Cambridge CB1 2LD, UK Meet up once a month at The Box Cafe to share your work and get expert and group feedback. This event is for people who have worked with us in the past or are currently working with us. Limited spaces available. Share More information
• Sat, 11 May Madingley Hall Two-day Manor House Retreat at Madingley Hall 11 May 2024, 10:00 – 12 May 2024, 13:30 Madingley Hall, Madingley, Cambridge CB23 8AQ, UK Menna & Emily will help you bring your writing to the next level with teaching about voice, structure, and story arcs. The cost includes three teaching sessions, two lunches, and an elegant dinner. Accommodation at the Hall can be booked separately. Price £375 Share More information
• Sun, 12 May Madingley Hall Retreat add-on: private session 12 May 2024, 13:30 – 17:00 Madingley Hall, Madingley, Cambridge CB23 8AQ, UK Students attending our manor house retreat can add on a one-hour private session with either Emily or Menna, who will read 5000 words (for £150) or 10,000 words (for £250) in advance. Share More information
• Tue, 24 Sept Jesus College Skills & Style autumn course 24 Sept 2024, 18:30 – 19 Nov 2024, 20:30 Jesus College, Jesus Ln, Cambridge CB5 8BL, UK Menna & Emily will teach how to write vividly, clearly, and actively—showing and telling, point of view, description and dialogue, everything to make your scenes and stories shine. Classes will take place in Jesus College on eight Tuesday evenings. Share More information
• Thu, 23 Jan Jesus College Skills & Style new year course 23 Jan 2025, 18:30 – 20 Mar 2025, 20:30 Jesus College, Jesus Ln, Cambridge CB5 8BL, UK Menna & Emily will teach you about writing starts and ends, about structure and storytelling—connecting scenes, managing plot, hooking and satisfying the reader. Classes will take place in Jesus College on eight Thursday evenings. Share More information
• Time is TBD Location is TBD Add on: buy Time to Write Time is TBD Location is TBD If you're attending one of our in-person events and would like to pay now for a copy of Emily's book on how to write a novel, you will be able to collect it at the event. Share More information

Upcoming Events

Choose from our upcoming our monthly Friday meetups , our Manor House Retreat at Madingley Hall , and our Skills & Style evening classes , all below.

Any questions at all, just email us: [email protected]  

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Creative Writing Workshops

Inspirational workshops for children

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Workshops and courses

" Creative writing workshops for children "

Whether your child is a confident writer or struggles to get their ideas down on the page, The Story Room has something for everyone. Our relaxed workshop approach nurtures and inspires young writers, enabling them to think creatively and to develop their writing skills. Our tutors and workshop leaders are writers who passionately believe in the benefits of writing for all. We understand the difficulties that a writer faces in communicating their creative thoughts effectively and this enables us to work with children of all writing levels.

We love what we do and are forever on the hunt for new story-writing ideas for our writers!

Our broad range of activities are for children aged 5-16 years old. We run holiday workshops, term-time writing clubs, bespoke writing workshops, children’s birthday parties, author workshops and book clubs.

The Story Room is currently in Winchmore Hill N21 and online.

Poetic Voices Live

We are proud to have been asked to contribute to Poetic Voices Live.

Click here to listen to poetry written by our young writers in their Story Room workshops.

Latest from the Blog

Dear Parents, This is the time of year that you might be thinking of mocks for your child. I work with a team of experts in this field and this week we launch our new-look Succeed website which now includes online mocks as well as the physical mocks that we have provided for  years now. Many of you have asked  …

Milo And His Magic Skateboard by Kristina Tanso Clap clap clap and off we go! Meet Milo, an adventurous bulldog who can travel anywhere in the world on his magic skateboard. All he has to do is think of the destination of his dreams and clap his paws, and Milo can visit all his favourite places in the blink of  …

Today saw the end of our workshops in Friends House and it was a very fitting end to a wonderful week. I can’t tell you how much Michelle and I have enjoyed working with the children this week. Today we learnt about bees and how important they are to our eco-system. We got lots of information from The Woodland Trust  …

When we have a little spare time at the end of a workshop we like to write class poems and we just had to share this one with you because it is sooooooo good! We had spent the class writing discussing Michael Rosen’s Sun Sounds poem and decided to have fun writing a poem about Moon senses, so an acrostic  …

What happens in one of our creative writing sessions? The format of our sessions is pretty much the same whether we are online or in person. We always start with some inspiration for the children – whether it be listening to some music, studying a piece of art, or reading poetry or short stories/extracts from books. For example if our  …

These are our clubs in the beautiful building and gardens of Friends Meeting House, Church Hill, London N21 1LE.

Let your imagination fly!

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The Story Room

@ 2021 Story Room | www.lucyswebdesigns.co.uk

Cambridge Writers' Workshop

Executive Creative Director

Executive Artistic Director

Yoga & Arts Coordinator

Lily Hoang is the author of five books, including  A Bestiary  (winner of the inaugural Cleveland State University Poetry Center’s Nonfiction Contest) and  Changing  (recipient of a PEN Open Books Award). With Joshua Marie Wilkinson, she edited the anthology  The Force of What’s Possible: Writers on Accessibility and the Avant-Garde . She is Director of the MFA program at New Mexico State University. She serves as Prose Editor at  Puerto del Sol  and Editor for Jaded Ibis Press.

Alexandria Marzano-Lesnevich ’s first book, THE FACT OF A BODY: A Murder and a Memoir , is forthcoming from Flatiron Books (Macmillan) in May 2017, as well as from publishers internationally. The book layers a memoir with an investigation into, and recreation of, a 1992 Louisiana murder and death penalty case. For her work on the book, Marzano-Lesnevich received a National Endowment for the Arts fellowship and a Rona Jaffe Award, and has twice been a fellow at both MacDowell and Yaddo. Other scholarships and fellowships received include those from the Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference, the Millay Colony for the Arts, Blue Mountain Center, Kimmel Harding Nelson Center, Djerassi Resident Artists Program, the Studios at Key West, Vermont Studio Center, and the Alice Hayes Fellowship for Social Justice Writing from the Ragdale Foundation. Her essays appear in The New York Times , Oxford American , Iowa Review , Hotel Amerika , The Rumpus , and the anthologies True Crime and Waveform: Twenty-First Century Essays by Women , among many other publications, and were recognized “notable” in Best American Essays 2013, 2015, and 2016. She was educated at Harvard (JD), Emerson College (MFA), and Columbia University (BA) and now teaches at Grub Street, a nonprofit writing center in Boston, and in the graduate public policy program at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government.

Emily Nemens is coeditor and prose editor of The Southern Review , a literary quarterly published at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. Her editorial work has been featured in Writer’s Digest, draft: a journal of process , and on LeanIn.org, and her selections from The Southern Review have recently appeared in Best Mystery Writing 2016 and Best American Nonrequired Reading 2015 . She studied art history and studio art at Brown University, and before moving to Louisiana to pursue an MFA in creative writing at LSU, she lived in Brooklyn and worked in editorial capacities at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Center for Architecture. Alongside her editorial work, Emily maintains active writing and illustration practices. Her fiction and essays have recently appeared in The Gettysburg Review , The Los Angeles Review of Books , and n+1 , and she is working on a linked story collection about spring training baseball. As an illustrator she’s collaborated with Harvey Pekar on a Studs Terkel anthology, painted miniature portraits of all the women in Congress, and recently published her first New Yorker cartoon. Follow her at @emilynemens.

Writing Instructor Applications:

The Cambridge Writers’ Workshop periodically seeks instructors to teach creative writing courses the areas of poetry, fiction, nonfiction, mixed-genre, and playwriting. Candidates with MFAs, professional writing and teaching experience, and a strong publication history are preferred. Applicants may teach in Cambridge, MA, New York, or abroad. If you are interested in teaching at the Cambridge Writers’ Workshop, please send us an email or check out our Submittable page for Open Application periods.

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Cambridge Writing Centre

The Cambridge Writing Centre is a research centre based at Anglia Ruskin University, dedicated to sharing knowledge in the field of creative writing.

Our practice-based research integrates, among other areas, short fiction , poetry , dramatic writing , creative nonfiction , science fiction and fantasy , and writing for children , as well as exploring interactivity and hybridity between these genres. Scroll down for a full list. Our members are writers and researchers situated within the Cambridge School of Creative Industries and the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, working with local writers and organisations to create public-facing events and workshops.

Launch Event

Join us on Friday 1st December for the official launch of the Centre. Tickets/details available here.

Short Stories

The short story – the art of saying less but meaning more – has long been viewed in the UK as a kind of apprentice piece before the ‘real’ work of a novel. While it’s true that many writers start off with the short story, recent Pulitzer Prize winners for short stories (including Elizabeth Strout, Jhumpa Lahiri and Jenifer Egan) and the proliferation of high profile competitions, show that it is flourishing as an artform in its own right. We have been teaching the craft of short fiction at ARU for many years, and hosted successful short story writers like Ali Smith, Daisy Johnson, and Chris Beckett, all of whom came to prominence with their first collections. We have a long history of successful creative practice PhDs in the short story, and aim to showcase some of that research through the CWC, as well as interactive workshops and readings. 

Cambridge has been home to many renowned poets, including Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Lord Byron, and Sylvia Plath, and continues to host an array of visiting and resident poets. The Cambridge Writing Centre is at the forefront of innovation and experimentation in poetry, expanding the reach of interactive digital and ludokinetic verse, and working in partnership with hybrid anthology publishers Sidekick Books. We host regular multi-poet event nights based around themes as diverse as Renaissance magic, local wildlife and Shakespeare.

Writing Drama for Stage, Screen and Audio

With the rise of streaming and digital distribution our appetite for recorded drama has grown exponentially and so has the demand for drama writers. At ARU we have been teaching writing for stage, screen and audio for over twenty years. While still emerging as a field of research, the CWC furthers the skills, knowledge and understanding demanded for affective and impactful drama writing through industry led talks and workshops. As well as promoting the wider development and understanding of drama writing practice as research via presentations and discussion in our staff and student research seminar series .

Creative Nonfiction

The UK has an excellent international reputation for the quality of its adult and children’s nonfiction book publishing. This offers a real breadth of opportunity for writers to engage in original research and to develop innovative approaches to writing. At ARU we have a focus on nature and environment, and especially the East Anglian region, wetlands and climate change. Memoir is another area of nonfiction writing explored by staff and students.

Writing with Technology

Ever since the invention of the printing press the evolution of writing has run parallel with the evolution of technology. Technology has shaped writing form through the invention of new tools with which to generate and disseminate writing. It has also become the subject matter of much genre pushing writing through speculative fiction and science fiction as authors explore human’s relationship to technology real and imagined. From the typewriter to generative AI writers have responded to changes in technology by exploring new ways of combining traditional skills with new processes pushing boundaries of creativity, narrative and reader engagement. Join us for workshops and events exploring this exciting way of exploring future forms of writing and creativity.

Science Fiction and Fantasy

The Cambridge Writing Centre incorporates what used to be the Anglia Ruskin Centre for Science Fiction and Fantasy. We continue to advance the aim is to explore science fiction and fantasy as products that depend on the interaction of literary and visual media and that are constructed by both the publishing industry and and fan communities.

Weird and Gothic Fiction

A paragraph with detail about our background/expertise in weird and gothic fiction.

Writing for Children and Young Adults

The market for children and young adult literature has rocketed in recent years but what draws writers to writing for children and young adults? There is no doubt that there are as many answers to that question as writers. What unifies all successful writers for children and young adults is a commitment to practicing the craft of storytelling for specific age-groups. With this understanding firmly in mind the CWC organises workshops and talks on the art of writing for young readers from picture books to middle grade, lower teens to young adults, inviting celebrated authors from near and far to share their skills and experience.

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Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching Creative Writing

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Calling writers who teach, teachers who write, and those interested in applying creative writing (or its theory) within their professional field!

The Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching Creative Writing is structured around 3 modules that are designed with a focus on a different area of teaching creative writing. By the end of the course you will have an enhanced knowledge of relevant existing pedagogical theory, acquired new practical skills for teaching, assessment and planning and you will have developed reflective awareness and innovation in your own teaching practice. 

We will be running a Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching Creative Writing Information Session on 15th February at 18:30 GMT as part of our Postgraduate Open Day 2024. Book now .

Watch the recording from our Open Morning on 10 February 2023.

Who is the course designed for ?

The course is aimed at:

• published writers who wish to teach or offer writing workshops;
• existing creative writing tutors who want to improve or develop a more cohesive and defined pedagogy;
• graduates of postgraduate level Creative Writing programmes who wish to become teachers of creative writing;.
• Healthcare or industry professionals who wish to offer creative writing classes;
• professional development for qualified teachers interested in exploring the theory of teaching creative writing or who include creative exercises as part of their teaching of core subjects (eg. History or English).

Aims of the programme 

The programme aims to enable participants to: 

•  develop their skills as a teacher of creative writing and strategies for their intended teaching contexts;

• develop and or extend their knowledge of the theories and practices of the teaching of creative writing;

• develop their repertoire of teaching, course design and assessment methods appropriate to creative writing in their context;

• develop a reflexive and critical awareness of their own teaching practice and to transmit what they have learned from their own experience of being a writer into a classroom setting.

Teaching and Learning

The course is taught over three modules, each of which students must attend. A Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) offers learning support to students while they are on the programme, including learning resources and peer-to-peer and student-to-tutor discussion between modules to build a virtual community of practice.

Module 1: The Philosophy and Context of Teaching Creative Writing

04 - 06 October 2024

This module will introduce students to the Postgraduate Certificate and will address:

• the background and history of teaching creative writing;
• the concept of ‘creativity’ and the arguments surrounding whether or not creative writing can be taught;
• the methodologies surrounding teaching creative writing;
• how teaching creative writing may vary within different settings such as schools, higher education and prisons.

Module 2: Designing a Creative Writing Course

17 - 19 January 2025

This module will address:

• different models of creative writing courses and the advantages and challenges of each;
• the pedagogical theories behind different types of courses;
• the use of close reading in different settings and what makes a good extract;
• the quality assurance aspects of designing a creative writing course;
• the emotional and psychological impact of teaching creative writing for tutors and students.

Module 3: Assessment and Feedback in a Creative Writing Course

04 - 06 April 2025

• different ways of providing feedback in different contexts;
• the pedagogical theories behind different types of feedback;
• the challenges of providing written feedback to a range of students;
• the historical roots of the workshop and its appropriateness in different settings. 

You will be awarded a course grade on the basis of a portfolio of three summative assignments totalling 10,000 words. 

Please note that this course does not lead to a formal teaching qualification.

Find out more

If you have any questions about this course, would like an informal discussion on academic matters before making your application, or would like to know more about the admissions process, please complete this enquiry form with your questions .

Applicants should hold a good undergraduate degree (good 2.1 or overseas equivalent) and would need to be competent in the English language. There is provision to accept non-standard applicants who do not satisfy the standard academic criterion. Such applicants must produce evidence of relevant and equivalent experience and their suitability for the course.

Language requirement

• IELTS Academic: Overall band score of 7.5 (with a minimum of 7.0 in each individual component)
• CAE: Grade A or B (with at least 193 in each individual element) plus a language centre assessment
• CPE: Grade A, B, or C (with at least 200 in each individual element)
• TOEFL iBT: Overall score of at least 110 with no element below 25

Applicants might come from an existing teaching environment, (primary, secondary or tertiary), be practising writers or postgraduate students who wish to develop the skills to lead workshops, those looking to improve or develop a more cohesive or defined creative writing pedagogy, or professionals in other industries who would like to explore using creative writing as a development tool within their field.

International Students : If you are not a UK resident please visit our international students' page to read about visas for part-time students. Please make sure you have investigated your visa requirements in advance of booking as we cannot offer a refund if you find you are unable to take up the place due to visa constraints after you have booked your place on the course.

The fee will be £4,750.00 for Home and for EU/Overseas students the fee is £8,240.00. Students will be expected to cover the application fee (£50 online), accommodation whilst in Cambridge and any costs of travel to Cambridge. 

You can pay in one of two ways:

• In full on enrolment (by cheque payable to the University of Cambridge or by credit or debit card)
• in four instalments (credit/debit card only)

ICE fees and refunds policy

First story - Institute of Continuing Education Tuition Fee Bursary Scheme

The University of Cambridge Institute of Continuing Education (ICE) and the creative writing charity First Story have collaborated to provide four partial tuition fee bursaries for this course. The First Story - Institute of Continuing Education Tuition Fee Bursary Scheme will enable teachers, librarians or other literary professionals working in deprived and/or disadvantaged settings to enrol on the part-time University of Cambridge Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching Creative Writing .

These bursaries, which will cover up to £2000 of the course fee, are intended to support applicants who work in state funded settings such as state schools, public libraries, local authorities, the NHS or HM Prisons Service and will be interested in using creative writing as a development tool within their field. We will also consider applicants from third-sector organisations and not-for-profit organisations. (If you are awarded a bursary you would be responsible for paying the remaining tuition fee.).

How to apply for a bursary

Step one: Apply for a place on the course. Applicants can only apply for a bursary after making an application for the Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching Creative Writing course through the online application portal.

Step two: Complete this online Bursary Application Form . You will be required to provide your course application payment reference number, a personal statement about how you will benefit from the course and bursary, and a copy of your CV.

First Story - Institute of Continuing Education Tuition Fee Bursary Scheme Terms and Conditions .

The deadline for bursary applications is 6 June 2024.

Other sources of funding

Sources of government funding and financial support  - including Professional and Career Development Loans.

This course will require a minimum number of students in order to run. Applicants for this course will be notified by September 2024 if the course is not going to be running at which point students will be offered a refund of the fees they have paid so far (please see our Cancellation policy) . 

Applications close on the 6th June 2024  and interviews for shortlisted candidates will be held in July. Interviews will take place either in person or by remote software if candidates are unable to attend in person.  Candidates will be contacted to arrange convenient times during the previous week.”

Applicants will be required to apply online and will need to provide a CV and a personal statement of around 500 words in addition to:

• Copies of relevant qualification certificates and transcripts
• Language proficiency if required
• Contact details of two referees who will be contacted on your behalf

How often does the Postgraduate Certificate run? The Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching Creative Writing course currently has an annual intake.

Is the course taught online, or is it possible to complete the course by distance-learning? This is not a distance-learning course. You will be required to attend teaching sessions in Cambridge.

Are there any sources of funding available? Please view the "Fees and Funding" tab for further details. 

How many references are required? We require two references. References need to be submitted from professional e-mail addresses, so please ensure that you enter the relevant details into the online application form.

What kind of references should I provide? We prefer academic references from people who, if at all possible, are able to comment on your writing skills and experience, and your ability to study at Master’s level. 

What happens if I am not able to provide academic references? We can accept professional references.

Can I nominate an ICE tutor as my referee? Yes, you may nominate an ICE tutor to act as your referee. 

How long should the Personal Statement be? As a guide, we suggest that the Personal Statement is about 500 words in length.

Course dates

Course duration.

Academic Directors, Course Directors and Tutors are subject to change, when necessary.

Qualifications / Credits

Course code.

Institute of Continuing Education Madingley Hall Madingley Cambridge CB23 8AQ

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