10 credits (at Level SCQF 7)

This introductory-level class will introduce you to the basic principles of creative writing and encourage you to enjoy finding the words to communicate your ideas and stories. This class is delivered through Myplace, the University's virtual learning environment, allowing you to work in your own time. With weekly lessons using downloadable learning materials, there will be exercises to inspire you and the submission of writing throughout the class. 'Kindling' is designed as an interactive learning experience and you will be able to communicate directly with your fellow students and the tutor with online forums, where you can leave written posts, and also with two Zoom 'live chats'. Focused on your individual creative processes and abilities, and providing written feedback on all submitted pieces, this class will help you kindle your writing into life. Note that this class is the online, credit-bearing version of the 'Creative Writing for Beginners' class (OS616). Credit can be awarded for either class, but not both.

10 credits (at Level SCQF 7)

This class is suitable for anyone who is writing regularly as time allows. 'Feeding the Flame' is also designed for previous 'Kindling' students or the on-campus version 'Creative Writing for Beginners' who wish to further develop their creative writing skills in areas such as building ideas, story structure, characterisation and revision and editing. You will strengthen your writing skills with downloadable learning materials and regular writing assignments. This class is delivered through Myplace, the University's virtual learning environment, allowing you to work in your own time. Written feedback will be provided on all written pieces. You will also be able to communicate with your fellow students and the tutor through online forums, where you can leave written posts and also with two Zoom 'live chats'. Note that this class is the online, credit-bearing version of the 'Taking Your Creative Writing Further 2' class (OS618). Credit can be awarded for either class, but not both.

10 credits (at Level SCQF 7)

Open to anyone who has writing experience and is confident in sharing their work, or who has completed 'Feeding the Flame' or the on-campus version 'Creative Writing for Writers: Taking Your Creative Writing Further 2', Ablaze will cover topics including Dialogue Management, Perspective, Plotting and Structure, Style, Research and Getting into Print. This class is delivered through Myplace, the University's virtual learning environment, allowing you to work in your own time. It will continue with the same weekly structure to keep you inspired and motivated and to help you further build on your writing skills and experience. As ever, in-depth feedback will be offered on submitted writing and the tutor will be on hand to guide you in getting the best from your creative writing. Note that this class is the online, credit-bearing version of the 'Taking Your Creative Writing Further 3' class (OS175/OS282). Credit can be awarded for either class, but not both.

10 credits (at Level SCQF 7)

'Inferno' is for individuals who want integrated feedback from the tutor and other writers. The main focus is on novel writing and you may already be working on a novel or seeking to get into the process of developing and writing one (the class is also suitable for anyone writing an autobiography or other types of long-form writing). This class is delivered through Myplace, the University's virtual learning environment, allowing you to work in your own time. During the class you will be asked to submit three pieces of work between 1500 and 3000 words, all part of the large piece you're working on. You will be put into groups of 3/5 and will read and give feedback on your group's writing in an online open forum. There will also be ongoing informal discussions on issues of craft, creativity and editing linked to the class' generous provision of creative writing resources. Note that this class is the online, credit-bearing version of the 'Introduction To Novel Writing' class (OS167/OS283). Credit can be awarded for either class, but not both.

You love to write and you've been writing for a while, developing your style and honing your skills. You may already have taken a creative writing class or you've been working hard on your own. Now you're ready to commit more time and effort to your writing and feel that individual feedback and support will help you take it to the next level.

Mentoring is a great tool for people wanting to take that step and we have drawn on our 30 year experience in offering creative writing classes to adults to bring you our most innovative programme yet. Specifically designed to fit with your writing needs, this tailor-made approach will help nurture you as an individual and as a writer, with the support of an expert in the field.

A writing mentor is there to give feedback on your writing and to help you make good decisions about how to continue to improve your writing. You might use your mentor to advise on honing your writing and editing skills, or you might also ask for advice on submitting your work or about any other aspect of your writing process.

The programme can be used by writers of fiction, non-fiction, scripts and poetry and can be adapted for any project, from full-length novels to short stories, poems and articles. It starts with an initial submission of up to 3,000 words, from which you can then progress to longer packages, allowing you to start building a relationship with your mentor focused on your writing. You can also use the initial submission process if you would like editorial feedback on a one-off basis for short pieces you’re considering submitting for competitions, portfolios or publication. 

The Mentoring Programme is flexible, allowing you to decide your own goals, ways of working and preferences for feedback and focus. Through close attention to you, your writing and your process, your mentor is here to help you become a better writer.

Creative Writing Mentoring Programme Application Process

Creative Writing Mentoring FAQs.