Creative Writing

Ages: 13–16
Term: Autumn, spring
Length: 8 weeks

Overview

This creative writing course invites young learners to step into a world where imagination knows no bounds.

Over eight Saturday mornings, students embark on a journey of discovery, bringing words to life through fun prompts, engaging exercises, and collaborative projects. Whether they're passionate about writing stories, poems, scripts, or simply imagining new worlds, this course helps students unlock their creative voice in a supportive and inspiring environment.

To book your place today, simply click Book Now below to be taken to AUB's secure online store, where you can complete your booking. You can also sign up to our newsletter for short course updates.

Course information

Guided by an experienced tutor, students explore how to craft memorable characters, captivating narratives, and experiment with a variety of genres and styles. They learn practical techniques for setting vivid scenes, how to develop compelling dialogue, and how to make their writing more engaging, all while building confidence in their ideas and their voice.

We ensure that each young writer receives the consideration that their work deserves; the course tutor builds on the broad curriculum by tailoring workshops and recommendations to the needs and interests of students. Whether their words are exciting or emotional, spoken aloud in poetry slams or written down in epic trilogies, they can find a space to be heard and understood throughout our sessions.

The course balances individual work with opportunities for collaboration, encouraging your young writers to give and receive feedback and watch their work grow into exciting, polished creations they can be proud of. Whether a student dreams of writing the next great novel, a Hollywood or Broadway blockbuster, powerful verse, or simply improving their storytelling for school, this course provides a creative space to explore, experiment and develop essential writing skills.

Designed for all experience levels, this course requires only curiosity, imagination, and enthusiasm. By the end of the course, your young creatives will not only have stronger writing skills, but also greater confidence and a new community of practice to share work with as they take steps into the wider world of writing.

Experienced guidance from a practising creative specialist in creative writing and arts education.
Fun writing prompts and exercises
Opportunities for peer feedback and group discussion
A variety of storytelling techniques and genre explorations
Supportive guidance to help develop your unique voice
A friendly, supportive environment for all levels of experience and interest.

Timetable

Week 1: The Writer's Toolbox – wielding the power of words
Week 2: Your Mind's Ear – zooming in and setting scenes with powerful sensory language
Week 3: Folklore, the Future, and Following your Fascinations – step-by-step world building
Week 4: Personality and Motivation – bringing your characters to life
Week 5: Narrative and Plot – how to build a story from scratch
Week 6: Experiments with Language – making words peculiar
Week 7: What Do YOU Think? – your voice as a writer
Week 8: Launchpad – community, collectives and how to put your words into the world

At the end of the course, your young artist will:

Develop an increased ability to craft compelling characters, settings, and plotlines.
Build a personal portfolio of original writing projects suitable for future use or creative showcase.
Gain skills in structuring narratives across all genres, using vivid language, and editing for clarity and impact.
Enhance their ability to give and receive constructive feedback, improving their work through reflection.
Create a portfolio of original written pieces while developing a clear understanding of key storytelling techniques that can support further study or personal creative goals.
Receive feedback through informal reviews, peer discussions and a final presentation of their work to help refine their skills and ideas.

Students can request a certificate of attendance if 100% attendance has been achieved by the end of the course. To request a certificate, please email academy@aub.ac.uk with student name and course completed.

What you need to know

When does it run?

Spring term 2027

Saturdays 23 and 30 January 2027
Saturdays 6, 13, 20 and 27 February 2027
Saturdays 6 and 13 March 2027

How long is the course?

8 Saturdays

What time are the classes?

09.30–12.30

Who's this course for?

This course has been developed for young writers aged 13–16.

Does my young artist need any qualifications or experience?

No. This is an introductory course, so your young artist doesn’t need any previous experience, just buckets of enthusiasm.

I’m not sure if this is suitable for my young artist. Can I speak to someone?

Yes, of course! If you’d like to discuss if this course is suitable for your young artist, get in touch with us: email academy@aub.ac.uk or call 01202 363222.

How much does this course cost?

£269

What's included in this price?

All course materials and resources
Everything your young artist will need to take part in the course will be provided by us – no hidden costs!

Drinks and snacks for break time and duration of class; please ensure snacks don’t contain nuts.
It’s strongly advised mobile phones, tablets and other valuables aren’t brought to class. Any personal possessions are the responsibility of your young artist and AUB won’t be liable for any loss or damage.

Meet your tutor

Sebastian "Baz" Lewis

Sebastian is a writer and editor from Dorset. He's The Story Works’ inaugural Young Poet Laureate for Bournemouth (2025–26)...

Text that reads ' start their creative journey'. This overlays three smiley faces.

Book your young artist's place today

Book now

Beyond the course

This could just be the start of your young artist's creative journey! After this course, your young artist could further their skills, continue to harness their creativity and explore alternative Saturday Art School subjects, look forward to the future and the next step(s) in their creative journey by exploring AUB's Foundation Diploma in Art, Design and Media.