Oxford Creative Writing & Storytelling Online Summer Course

Course Description: Oxford Creative Writing & Storytelling Online Summer Course

Live Online Learning from Oxford

Our online programmes deliver an academically rigorous curriculum led by tutors from leading universities. We provide a structured, live learning environment where students can interact in real-time with their peers and tutors. Families can feel confident in a trusted organisation known for high teaching standards, small class sizes (maximum 15 students), and a supportive digital community.

Do you have a story to tell? The Online Creative Writing & Storytelling Academy offers the perfect opportunity for aspiring authors to explore the craft of fiction and narrative from anywhere in the world.

Through live, interactive tutorials (not pre-recorded), you will create compelling characters, build immersive worlds, and master the art of the plot. Guided by expert tutors from leading universities such as Oxford and Cambridge, you will develop a unique writing voice and compile a professional portfolio of your own original stories.

Course Content & Learning Objectives

1. Orientation & Introduction to Storytelling

• Introductions & Icebreakers: Share your personal journey, get to know your international cohort and tutor, and feel inspired about studying the craft of writing.

• Introduction to the Course: Understand what to expect from the curriculum, set collective norms and values for the group, and understand the overall task for the course.

• Fundamentals: Identify different genres of creative writing and start exploring the basic storytelling elements that make a narrative resonate with readers.

2. Character Creation

• Create compelling and realistic characters that feel alive on the page.

• Develop detailed character profiles including background history, specific traits, and internal motivations to drive your narrative forward.

3. Plot Development

• Understand the essential components of a well-structured plot and narrative arc.

• Create a comprehensive plot outline for a short story, focusing on tension, pacing, and conflict.

4. Setting and Worldbuilding

• Create immersive and atmospheric settings that ground your stories.

• Explore the importance of setting in storytelling and learn techniques to build worlds that transport your readers.

5. Writing Dialogues

• Write realistic, engaging, and purposeful dialogue between characters.

• Learn to use dialogue effectively to develop character depth and advance the plot without relying on exposition.

6. Revisiting Genres

• Understand the unique features, tropes, and "rules" of various literary genres.

• Experiment with writing in different genres to expand your creative versatility and range.

7. Writing Voice

• Develop a unique writing voice and discover your personal narrative style.

• Study the writing styles of favourite authors to understand how they construct their unique "voice" on the page.

8. Editing & Revising

• Learn techniques to revise and edit your work effectively, looking for clarity, flow, and impact.

• Understand the vital importance of the revision process and how it transforms a draft into a polished story.

9. Putting it into Practice

• Integrate all elements learned—character, plot, setting, dialogue, and voice—to craft a brilliant, original story.

• Finalise your story for your professional writing portfolio, ensuring it is ready for presentation.

10. Presentation & Feedback

• Present your completed stories to the class and your tutor.

• Participate in a supportive workshop environment to provide and receive constructive feedback, reflecting on your learning journey.

Meet Your Tutor 👩‍🏫

Sarah Marshall BA Hons, MSt (Oxon), DPhil (Oxon) (Candidate)

Sarah was awarded a Master of Studies with Distinction in Classical Languages and Literature by the University of Oxford in 2021. She subsequently taught English and Classics at Wycombe Abbey School and returned to Oxford in 2023 to pursue a DPhil. She won the Avril Gilchrist Bruten Award for Creative Writing in 2024 in recognition of her work.

Please note, our faculty members may be subject to change.

Develop Your Writing Skills

Immerse yourself in the world of literature by tackling creative challenges, participating in masterclasses, and learning from an inspirational tutor.

Master Narrative Techniques

• Master key concepts such as plot structure, worldbuilding, and character psychology – all under the guidance of our expert tutors from leading universities like Oxford and Cambridge.

Be Mentored by an Expert Academic

• Work closely with an academic mentor on your original writing. Whether drafting a dialogue, developing a unique voice, or editing a final story, you’ll gain invaluable experience by working through the creative process just like professional authors.

Connect with Global Storytellers

• Join our weekly video socials to meet fellow students from around the world. These casual, fun events feature games, quizzes, and group activities, offering a chance to unwind, socialise, and make lasting connections with others passionate about storytelling.

Hear From a Graduate 💬

Mario Baluta - Online Creative Writing Course

“The online Creative Writing course was amazing! The classes were insightful, the tutors were inspirational and I made so many wonderful new connections with classmates from all over the world. The experience has given me the confidence and skills to pursue creative writing as a career.”

Practical Information

• Format: Live tutorials (Zoom or similar platform)

• Timings: Tutorials take place from 1pm – 3pm UK Time

• Dates: June – August (2-week programmes)

• Class Size: Maximum 15 students to ensure personalised attention

• Requirements: Ages 12-14; Laptop with camera/mic; English level B2/C1

What’s Included in Your Tuition Fee

Academics

• 20 Hours of live teaching (over two weeks)

• 4 Hours of Masterclass sessions

• Preparatory reading list & independent study assignments

• Detailed, personalised feedback on your writing portfolio

Graduation & Beyond

• Formal Online Graduation Ceremony

• Personalised Letter of Recommendation from your tutor

• Official Certificate of Achievement

• Invitation to the Ambassador Programme

• Ongoing academic advice and support