Creative Writing Course: Find Your Way in Fiction

Join acclaimed author and experienced writing teacher Ben Hinshaw for an informal but comprehensive introductory course for people looking to improve their fiction writing. Whether you’re trying fiction for the first time or already deep into a project, this course will equip and inspire you to achieve your creative writing goals.

You’ll learn about the building blocks of fiction, from character and plot to dialogue and detail. You’ll read and discuss published stories and novel excerpts. You’ll generate new writing through prompts and exercises, and learn about editing and revision. Most importantly, you'll engage with your coursemates' writing and share your own in a supportive and encouraging environment. By the end of the course, you’ll have deepened your understanding of how successful fiction works, and of the kind of writer you want to be.

Dates: 6 January – 17 March (10 classes + break on 17 February)

Timings: Tuesdays 18:15 – 20:15 at Guille-Allès Library

Cost: £225 for 10-week course

Age: 18+

This course has run three times before - here's what people said about it:

"It's been life enhancing to be part of an amazing group of budding authors."

"It was a delightful course. Very well structured and positive."

"Great group and Ben made it all very interesting, he is a good teacher and put me at ease."

ABOUT BEN

Ben is the author of the critically acclaimed novel Exactly What You Mean, selected for BBC Two’s Between the Covers and described by Hilary Mantel as "entertaining, and something more - truly involving." Ben earned an MA in creative writing at the University of California, Davis and has led fiction workshops as both a lecturer and a volunteer. He loves helping writers find their voices and master the craft of storytelling.

Cancellation policy: Cancellations made 10 days or less before the start of the course will incur a 50% charge. If your space can be filled, the charge will be refunded minus the Eventbrite fee (£19.48). Once the course has started, cancellations will not be eligible for refunds.