“A short story is the ultimate close-up magic trick – a couple of thousand words to take you around the universe or break your heart.” Neil Gaiman

Short stories offer glimpses into the lives of characters: they can capture a moment or an experience via searing intensity or in an understated way. They pull the reader in close, hold them there, then release them: often leaving a lingering impression. They are a beautiful and powerful form, where a reader’s imagination can be captured via a few thousand well-chosen words.

During this one-day course, we will develop skills and techniques through reading/discussing short stories and undertaking writing exercises. We will focus on key techniques such as characters, time, setting, point of view, showing and telling, and style. The aim is to develop a deep understanding of how to structure and write a short story. This course is suitable for writers with/or without experience of short story writing.

What students need to bring

• A laptop and/or notepad and pen

Additional information

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

Student registration: 10.30am - 11am
Course teaching: 11am – 5.15pm 
Morning session: 11am - 1pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon session: 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