Paying close attention to our senses and learning to put language to our experience of them, we can develop our writing into something rich and vivid for the reader, addressing that universal aim to write with the senses.

Exercises in taste, smell, sight or sound will give you opportunities to focus on the sense in question and then translate that into evocative prose. Taking particular notice of your sense of taste, for example, you will immerse in flavour and then learn how to communicate that to others. The story might tell you that they had sausages and mash for tea, but can the reader taste it! Putting language to our experience of taste allows us to develop stronger links between our senses and our expression of them.

As you turn to writing, you will use these sensory exercises to drill down into the moment, the individual image and word. You will have the opportunity to work without judgement and critique. There will be discussion of the creative experience, but no demand to share work in progress. This makes the course a place for both experienced writers and those just beginning their writing journey to work with confidence. For all, there is great value in the creation of work for one’s own pleasure and development. The intention of the course is to help you, as writers, to develop the writing and creative practice that most excites and fulfils you.

Included

On this course the tutor will supply most of the materials, including scent and taste samples.

What students need to bring

Writing materials, i.e. notebook and pen/pencils

Additional information

You will taste samples supplied by the tutor as part of the workshop. Chocolate will be part of it. Please let the college know well ahead of any allergies.

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Daily Timetable

Course teaching 11am–5.15pm
Students arrive 10.30am-11am (coffee optional)  
Morning teaching 11am-1pm
Lunch break between 1pm-2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon teaching 2pm-5.15pm (15 minute break, 3.30pm–3.45pm)
Teaching finishes 5.15pm  
 

Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.

Refreshments

Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.

Access

If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected] This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.

Safety

Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.

Refunds and cancellations

Please refer to our terms & conditions below.

Disclaimer

The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.

Terms & Conditions