First Story writers are talented professionals with a publication record of at least one book, and/or an established reputation as a performance poet or playwright. As creative writing practitioners, they typically have at least three years of teaching experience, preferably working with young people. Ideally they will also have experience of bringing a project to publication.

Writers are ambassadors for First Story within their school, and for creative writing within their region. Above all, they want to work with people who share their  belief in the power of creative writing, and who can apply their enthusiasm and craft to develop young people’s confidence, creativity and writing ability.

Year-Long Programme

• Lead 16 x 90 min. after-school writing workshops for up to 21 students
•  Lead a dedicated staff CPD session
• Edit and curate a printed anthology of the group’s work

Term-Long Programme

• As above, but reduced to 8 x 90 min. after-school workshops

In addition, they ask all Writers-in-Residence to attend a skills-sharing day, regional network meetings, and the school’s anthology launch event.

Throughout the year, additional opportunities are offered to First Story writers to lead workshops at Regional Writing Events, to speak and/or lead sessions the annual Young Writers’ Festival, and to lead the week-long summer residential programme.

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