Writing Children’s Fiction: Step 1

This course is an introduction to the art and craft of writing children’s fiction. Aimed at beginners, this course will cover the structure of stories and character development in children’s fiction.

You will take part in group discussion and practical writing sessions and will have the opportunity to have their work reviewed by others.

Throughout this course you will draw inspiration from the hugely popular “War Horse” by Michael Morpurgo.

Any recommended reading will be advised by the course teacher once the course is confirmed to run. You will require access to a computer or other device with internet connection.

If you have fully engaged with all the learning activities and have attended regularly, by the end of the course you should be able to:

• Describe various styles and genres of children’s fiction
• Demonstrate, via the style of your writing and your chosen theme, an awareness of your target audience
• Plan and write a story that showcases your learning, with particular attention to structure and character development

This course is designed for those interested in writing children's literature. It is suitable for those with little to no writing experience.

We welcome all and are committed to fostering a positive culture and sense of community among learners and staff. We expect learners to treat others with dignity and respect. Learners must be aged 16+.  

If you have a disability, learning difficulty, health condition, or personal circumstances which may affect your learning, please let us know so that we can make appropriate adjustments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.  

Wherever possible, we mainstream adjustments in line with the University’s Accessible and Inclusive Learning Policy.

Learners will have limited access to the University’s student support services who will signpost appropriate local sources of support. 

This course is designed for those interested in writing children's literature. It is suitable for those with little to no writing experience.

You will need to have reading, listening and communication skills, including the ability to understand detailed ideas and information presented verbally and in writing. You must be comfortable learning in English if it is not your first language. You will need basic digital skills, such as using a computer and navigating a website, to access the learning materials.

Booking is available until 23:59 the day before the course is due to start, unless the course is full or cancelled.