Duration: 90mins
Class size: 25-40 (but can be tailored to suit)

The objective of the session is to identify ways to make writing more entertaining, and to debunk the idea some have that being a writer is only for the gifted amongst us.

Hopefully it helps the pupils get over the ‘fear of the blank page.’

The session is designed to be relevant to the school curriculum, giving pupils a range of techniques they may employ in their own creative writing.

It has been written to appeal to a wide range of abilities using a variety of learning styles with a lively, fun and active approach - the aim is to have a laugh while we work.

After a brief introduction, we will discuss the many different outlets for writing, including stand-up comedy, newspapers, magazines, websites, TV, radio, theatre, film and advertising.

We will then discuss the various tools used in writing humour, and after hearing one of my pieces, the students will be asked to identify examples of these, and to think of others.

Pupils will then be encouraged to create their own piece of work using some of the methods which have been outlined. The rhythm, how it scans and trying to write using their own voice - their idiolect - is all important. They also have to give some thought to the audience.

They can then read out their pieces for constructive criticism.

The aim of these sessions is to inspire pupils to write, and help them believe in their writing, whilst having a laugh and turning writing from a chore into a pleasure.

I will field any questions the students may have.