Course description
This course aims to
Teach students to use the core skills in fiction writing, including setting, characters, plotting, dialogue, point of view, editing and tips on getting published. It provides a friendly, supportive environment for writers to follow their individual interests, whether that be short or longer fiction.
Who is this course is for?
The course is for those students new to writing, and to provide inspiration for those who may not have written for a while and want to get motivated again. If you haven’t written before and want to learn the key skills involved in fiction writing, then this course would be suitable for you. If you have dabbled in writing and would like to take it further, then this course will help you hone those skills. If you are currently working on your own writing but would like a refresher in those ‘core skills’ then this course will also be suitable for you. No previous experience is necessary.
What will I be able to do by the end of the course?
• to create a convincing setting for a piece of fiction
• to build interesting characters
• to write dialogue effectively
• to craft an effective plot
• to employ different points of view in a piece of fiction
• to use narrative styles in a piece of fictional writing
• to be aware of the different ways in which you can market your work.
• to improve your own work through editing and revision
What materials will I need?
You will need to bring pen, paper, and a folder to organise your work. If you have access to a word processor this can help to save and organise your work.
Roughly how much will they cost?
The stationery costs are as standard. However, you might need to buy one or two additional ink cartridges for your printer; the costs of these varies.
How will I know I am making progress?
The tutor will provide regular feedback on written work handed in as homework, and the group will have opportunities to give and receive feedback on work being read out, in a constructive and supportive way. You will be encouraged to reflect on your own progress in a learner journal.
Is there any extra study outside the class?
A home assignment is set each week, based on the topic studied in class. This can be anything between 400 and 1000 words.
Who is the tutor?
Rebecca Duffy has taught creative writing as an Associate Tutor with the University of Sussex. She has completed a First Class Teacher Training Course with the Friends Centre / Portslade Community College and holds a MA in Creative Writing in Authorship (University of Sussex). She has written and performed plays locally and writes poetry and short fiction. She has also written published non-fiction.
What next?
The First Steps in Fiction Course can progress to the next stages of the course (run in the spring and summer terms). These do not repeat previous sessions. The Friends Centre also run various creative writing courses including: Advancing your Skills as a Writer, Writing Short Stories and Novels, and various Saturday workshops. There are also many opportunities to study creative writing at university (admissions criteria may vary).
Student Support
At the Friends Centre we are committed to meeting the learning needs of all our students.
We would like to know if you have a disability or impairment such as partially sighted, deaf or hearing impaired, mobility problems or wheelchair user, a mental health difficulty such as depression or anxiety, or a medical condition such as epilepsy or ME. We would also like to know if you are dyslexic, dyscalculic, or dyspraxic. This way we can work with you to make sure you have the support you need while you are studying with us. We also offer classes and support in literacy, maths and IT for anyone who thinks they need some help in those areas. To arrange a confidential interview with our Advice and Guidance Officer, Pat Rosine please call 01273 810210 or email p.rosine@friendscentre.org
Closure of courses
All courses that do not reach minimum numbers will be closed. Before we close a course, providing numbers are reasonable, we discuss with the tutor, and students if the course has started, if there are any ways we could continue. These can include an increased fee, a shorter class time or running for fewer weeks.
Refunds
Refunds are made automatically if the Centre cancels a course. Partial refunds will be made if a course is cancelled before the end of term. Otherwise fees are not refunded, except in very exceptional personal circumstances. Requests for a refund should be made in writing to the Friends Centre. If your attendance is prevented by illness we will be sympathetic but a medical certificate will be required.
Kinsella Hardship Fund
We have a small fund available to help students who have a problem paying fees. Please apply in writing to the Friends Centre, in complete confidence, explaining the reasons for your application. We may be able to offer a reduction of up to half the reduced fee or allow you to pay in instalments over a longer period than usual.
Contact details for this course
Please contact GAE to enrol on this course or for more information.
Contact name
Support Officer Oliver Fisher
Post
Brighton Junction,
Isetta Square,
Brighton,
BN1 4GQ
Telephone
01273 810210
