Storytelling Fundamentals: From Planning to the Page

Wednesday, 7 - 9pm

Start Date

8 October, 2025

There will be 10 weekly meetings on Wednesday, 7 - 9pm, starting from 8 October. 

Overview

Designed for writers of all levels, this course delves into the art of storytelling, from finding inspiration to crafting compelling characters and plots.
Whether you're a new writer eager to pen your first story or a seasoned wordsmith honing your craft, this short course offers valuable insights and practical techniques to bring your ideas to life on the page. Each session blends theory with hands-on exercises, allowing participants to explore key concepts and apply them in creative ways.
Through engaging discussions and interactive workshops, participants will analyse exemplary works of fiction and uncover the secrets behind their success. From describing settings to character development exercises, each class offers a balance of theory and practice, fostering a supportive environment for experimentation and growth.
Join us for an enriching experience that will ignite your creativity, sharpen your storytelling skills, and propel your writing journey to new heights!

Syllabus

Date    
October 8th     Starting structure: the beginning of the end or the end of the middle? 

October 15th    A mail order catalogue from Cincinnati: where writers get their ideas…

October 22rd    The Sprint: Planning and pacing a short story

October 29th    The Marathon: Planning and pacing a novel

November 5th    Constructing places

November 12th    Reading/Writing break  - NO SESSION

November 19th    Your stories: feedback week

November 26th     Growing characters

December 3th    Viewpoint: the distance between the teller and the tale

December 10th    Back to the start: beginnings

December 17th    Your stories: feedback week

Please note that the ‘last date available to book’ date is only a guide. We reserve the right to close bookings earlier.

In order to avoid disappointment, please be sure enrol as soon as possible. Registrations will not be processed until the following day if received after 3pm. 

Course Lecturer: Dr Em Segar

Em Segar has been teaching continuing education classes in creative writing for 18 years, and lectures in English and Creative Arts at Edge Hill University. Their PhD is in interactive fiction, and their own practice is primarily speculative and YA fiction.

Courses fees: Full fee £155/Concession £80.

Back to: Continuing Education