The Centre for New Writing teaches people how to write novels, short stories, poems, plays and screenplays, helping students to read as a writer reads, offer seminars on form and theory, and on contemporary publishing.

With help from CNW, undergraduates can find a fresh, clear voice and an understanding of structure. MA students can hone their skills to the point of submission for publication or of producing professional work for stage, television and film. And PhD students can combine a substantial piece of creative work with critical research in such a way that they can be considered for teaching or academic posts.

Tutors pride themselves on giving students detailed individual feedback to students in writing and face-to-face and bring the biggest names in contemporary literature to teach our students. Teaching staff includes established, award-winning writers such as Jeanette Winterson, Vona Groarke, Kamila Shamsie, John McAuliffe, and Kaye Mitchell.

Instruction in workshops is practical, hands-on and based on the tutor’s experience as a working novelist, poet or industry professional. Our seminars encourage students to develop their skills as readers and critics and an understanding of the contemporary literary landscape.

In 2006-2007 Martin Amis joined as Iconic Professor of Creative Writing. Colm Toibin took that role for 2011-2012. Since 2013, Jeanette Winterson has filled that role. We have recently been joined by Emma Clarke and Tim Price in our new screenwriting modules.