from 1st spark to 1st Draft
'From 1st Spark to 1st Draft' - our six-week online writing course returns. For people ready to begin, begin again, or refresh - and keep going.
This structured, supportive course is for writers who have an idea - or the seed of an idea - and are looking to bring it to life. Be it fiction, creative fiction, or memoir.
Or maybe you don't have that idea yet, but are looking to make a start. Somewhere.
Across six live sessions you'll explore the core elements of storytelling, whilst having the chance to shape your own piece of writing, whether you are looking to explore fiction or memoir.
Our current intake is now closed for bookings but do get in touch if you'd like to be notified of future dates.
Weekly focus
Each session is led by one of our experienced workshop hosts - writers and storytellers - with time for discussion, reflection and, of course, writing.
You can meet the hosts and read more about their backgrounds and experience on our Inkpots & Friends page.
Week 1 - The Writer's Toolbox, with Toria Thompson
Open your writers toolbox to establish shared language, set expectations, and create conditions that support sustained writing.
Week 2 - Grow an Idea with Kirsty Applebaum
Identifying how to find and shape your ideas, and learning how to develop them without overthinking or dilution.
Week 3 - Who is your Character? with Maddy Woosnam
Exploring character motivation, perspective, and presence on the page.
Week 4 - What's the Story? with Kathryn Clark
Working with plot, structure and story frameworks that help ideas hold together.
Week 5 - Setting the Scene, with Kate Wilkinson
Building settings that support character and story, whether close-to-home or imagined.
Week 6 - What comes next, with all of us
Coming together to look at early drafts, editing considerations, and realistic next steps once the course ends.
Course details
Date: future dates coming soon
Format: Live on Zoom
Duration: Six weeks
Cost: £150
• Each session will be recorded (lightly edited) and made available to revisit or catch up on the off-chance you might not be able to make a session.
• The course price also includes access to a free 'Introduction to Scrivener' workshop, plus
• Access to our weekly writing sprints for the duration of the course (currently running three times per week) to really help carve out some writing time.
• Spaces are limited to keep the group small and supportive.