A3986 - Creative Essentials: first steps in creative writing

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Start Date: 22/09/2026      End Date: 20/10/2026        Start Time: 18:30      End Time: 20:30        Hours per Week: 2.00      No of Weeks: 5
Fees:      £67.00 (tuition)     £128.00 (overseas)     £21.00 (concessionary)
Tutor: Carol Johnston        No of Places: 9
Idea Store Bow

Course Overview

Course Overview
Across the course, you will gradually build core creative skills through simple, structured activities that support you at every stage.
You will take part in guided, enjoyable activities that help you generate ideas and turn them into short pieces of writing. You will try a range of forms, including stories, descriptive writing, poetry and simple scripts. Each week introduces a clear focus—such as sensory detail, character, imagery or rhythm—so you can develop your skills step by step. Each session gives you clear starting points so you can begin writing with ease.
You will explore how to use observation, imagination and language in simple, practical ways. The focus stays on expression, not perfection—this is your space to experiment, take risks and enjoy the process. You will learn how to notice what makes a piece of writing engaging and how to apply those techniques in your own work.
You will also work alongside others in a relaxed group setting where you can share ideas, build confidence and learn how to give and receive feedback in a positive way. Feedback is introduced constructively, with supportive frameworks that help you recognise strengths and identify small, manageable next steps.
By the end of the course, you will have a collection of short pieces, greater confidence in your writing and a clear sense of how to continue your creative journey. You will leave with practical tools, a stronger sense of your developing voice and a plan for what to write next.

What will you learn and be able to do?

What will you learn and be able to do?
* Generate ideas using prompts and simple creative techniques
* Write short creative pieces in a range of forms (e.g., description, dialogue, micro fiction)
* Use basic language techniques such as imagery, sensory detail, and figurative language to shape your writing
* Give and receive supportive feedback and share your work with confidence in a group setting
* Identify your next steps and continue writing independently using simple self development strategies
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Entry requirements

Entry requirements
Competency in written and spoken English equivalent to Level 1.
Prosp User 8

Equipment required

Equipment required
Please bring pen and paper to your first class where your tutor will advise
of any additional materials required.
Prosp User 9

How will you know you are making progress?

How will you know you are making progress?
You will have an ‘Individual Learning Plan’ where the course learning outcomes are shown and
where you can set individual learning goals and monitor your own progress against these.
You will need to evaluate your own progress and manage your time.
Your tutor will give ongoing feedback and will keep you informed of your progress.
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At the beginning of the course an initial assessment takes place to identify your level of
experience knowledge or current skills.
The tutor will carry out informal assessments to check your understanding, there is no exam.
You will complete a self-assessment at the beginning, middle and end of the course.
Your tutor will let you know how you are getting on throughout the course to you will help you
work to your full potential.
At the end of the course you will receive written feedback.
Prosp User 11

Progress opportunities - your next steps

Progress opportunities - your next steps
You can progress to Explore: creative writing – find your creative voice in term B. Please see our website 'Idea Store - Learning' for further information on a range of Visual Arts courses or speak with your tutor. Your tutor will support you in researching these and other courses outside of Idea Store Learning.
Prosp User 10

Other info

Other info
We have high expectations regarding attendance and punctuality. We expect 100% attendance for all scheduled sessions and that you do so punctually and are ready to start learning at the start of the class.
We acknowledge the rare occasions when that will not be possible, please inform us before the class by emailing ideastoreadmin@towerhamlets.gov.uk.
Prosp User 13

Extra Support

Extra Support
If you have declared a learning difficulty, disability or support need whilst enrolling and you require support/assistance in class or to complete your course, please discuss your needs with your tutor at the first lesson.
If you intend to take an examination and feel you have an additional learning need or special requirements, you must declare them to your tutor within the first 2 weeks of your course. If you are studying in an online group, then you can arrange a one-to-one online discussion with your tutor, after the session, or by email. Where we aim to make reasonable adjustments to support our learners, please note we are unable to provide any type of in class or in person support if your course takes place online.
Prosp User 14