Masterclass: fiction (a year-long workshop)

About this course

The workshop centres on short stories and novel excerpts submitted by participants for close discussion and constructive critique. Sessions examine advanced fiction craft issues arising from the work under review, alongside approaches to revision and editorial decision-making. Teaching combines group discussion, peer evaluation and tutor feedback. Participants read one another’s submissions outside class and may receive additional writing or reading exercises related to their projects. The course concludes with a showcase reading from works in progress.

What you'll learn

• Evaluate fiction with detailed and sensitive critical responses
• Analyse complex issues in short stories, novellas and novels
• Apply critical and editorial judgement to their own writing
• Revise fiction in response to workshop feedback
• Present an extract from a work in progress to an audience

Is this course right for you?

This course is intended for advanced or professional fiction writers developing a substantial project for possible publication. It requires prior advanced workshop experience and/or a history of publication, as well as regular attendance, close reading and active participation in peer critique. Applicants should be fluent in English.

• Admission is by application and interview rather than standard enrolment
• Applicants submit a 500-word writing sample and details of their writing background
• Participants are expected to provide detailed feedback on peers’ work outside class
• The course includes a public showcase reading from works in progress

Before you go

• Applicants must submit work for workshop by agreed deadlines.
• Participants are expected to read peer submissions closely and prepare detailed feedback outside class.
• Additional costs are not stated; the course description says there are no additional costs.
• Participation in the end-of-course showcase event is required.