Exceptional Pre-College Creative Writing January Program for High Schoolers at University of Sydney Campus in Australia

Program Details

Course Description: Exceptional Pre-College Creative Writing January Program for High Schoolers at University of Sydney Campus in Australia

Creative Writing Programme (Ages 13–18)

This Creative Writing programme is designed for students aged 13–18 who are eager to strengthen their storytelling skills and explore writing as both an academic discipline and a creative practice. The course builds on students’ existing experience from school and personal writing, encouraging them to experiment with new techniques while developing confidence, originality, and technical control.

Through a series of structured workshops, guided exercises, and collaborative discussions, students explore how compelling stories are constructed—from first ideas to fully developed narratives. By the end of the programme, participants will have produced a portfolio of original writing extracts or short stories that demonstrate a range of styles, perspectives, and themes.

Academic Approach & Learning Style

The course is taught in a university-style seminar format, introducing students to the way creative writing is studied at an advanced level. Sessions combine tutor-led discussion, close reading of literary examples, practical writing tasks, and peer workshops. Students are encouraged to reflect critically on their own work and engage constructively with the writing of others.

The programme is academically challenging but supportive, with tutors adapting activities to suit different experience levels and writing interests. Students are guided to take creative risks while learning how to refine their ideas with clarity and purpose.

Core Areas of Study

Overcoming the Blank Page Students begin by exploring techniques to generate ideas and overcome creative hesitation. Through warm-up exercises, short assignments, and discussion of key writing principles such as “show, don’t tell,” avoiding cliché, and using authentic detail, students gain tools to approach writing with confidence.

Working Within Constraints Using classic creative writing exercises, students learn how limitations can enhance creativity. Simple plot prompts are used to demonstrate how even minimal scenarios can develop into engaging, dynamic stories.

Point of View & Narrative Voice Students examine how first- and third-person narration shape a story. Through rewriting and experimentation, they learn how point of view affects character insight, emotional tone, and reader engagement.

Dialogue & Voice This section focuses on making dialogue sound natural and convincing on the page. Students study examples from contemporary fiction, practise writing realistic speech, and explore the differences between dialogue written for fiction versus film.

Character Creation & Development Students learn techniques for building believable, multi-dimensional characters. Exercises include creating character backstories, relationships, and emotional motivations, helping students understand how character drives narrative tension and plot progression.

Setting & Sense of Place Participants explore how setting shapes story and character. By analysing short texts and creating their own detailed locations, students learn how place contributes atmosphere, realism, and meaning.

Plot & Story Structure Students develop plots driven by character choices rather than spectacle. Topics include tension, turning points, pacing, and plot twists, with emphasis on subtle but powerful moments that define strong storytelling.

Personal Project

Throughout the programme, students work on an individual personal project, typically a short story or presentation developed from the techniques studied. This project allows students to apply theory to practice and showcase their creative growth. Projects are shared with peers, followed by discussion and feedback, helping students refine both their writing and presentation skills.

Outcomes & Skills Developed

By the end of the programme, students will:

• Build a portfolio of original creative writing

• Develop confidence in generating and shaping ideas

• Understand key elements of narrative craft

• Improve critical reading and peer-feedback skills

• Gain insight into academic study and career pathways related to writing

This programme is ideal for students considering further study in creative writing, literature, journalism, or related fields—or for any young writer seeking to deepen their craft in a structured, inspiring academic environment.

Where You’ll Stay 🏛️

Students in Sydney will reside at St. Paul’s College, located within the University of Sydney, Australia’s oldest university and a proud member of the prestigious Group of Eight.

This historic college offers a truly collegiate experience, blending academic tradition with modern comfort in the heart of the city. Students are accommodated in secure, comfortable residences with Wi-Fi, shared facilities, and dedicated residential support staff on hand throughout the programme.

Accommodation arrangements are separate for male and female students, ensuring a safe, welcoming, and well-supervised environment. From iconic landmarks nearby to Sydney’s world-famous harbour, students enjoy the very best of campus and city life throughout their stay.

Address: St. Paul’s College, Camperdown NSW 2050, Australia

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UCAS Points Available �*

Strengthen your UK university application by earning 8 UCAS points through this summer programme.

Students may opt in for this opportunity during the application process, allowing them to gain official UCAS-recognised points—a valuable way to stand out in a competitive admissions landscape.

• Available as an optional add-on

• Open to students aged 14 and above at the time of the programme

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Guest Speakers from Previous Summers �*

Participants will hear from inspiring guest speakers from a wide range of professional and personal backgrounds, offering insight beyond the classroom.

Suzanne Williams QPM

Former Senior Detective

An experienced hostage negotiator who has worked on some of the most high-profile and dangerous hostage situations worldwide, including negotiations in active war zones.

Jody Bragger

Ex-Military Officer & CEO of Midnight Runners

Former military officer and CEO of Midnight Runners, the world’s largest independent running community. He is also the founder of the Mogadishu Marathon, the country’s first since the outbreak of war.

Sarah Outen

Adventurer & Explorer

A British adventurer who has successfully circumnavigated the globe, overcoming extreme conditions and long periods of isolation in some of the world’s most remote environments.

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Backed by Academic Experts �*

Our programmes are shaped and validated by an Academic Advisory Panel made up of senior Fellows and Professors from world-leading universities, ensuring academic rigour, relevance, and credibility.

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A Day in the Life �*

Morning: Start the Day Together (07:30–09:30) ☀️

The day begins with breakfast, giving students time to energise and socialise before academic sessions begin.

Late Morning: Academic Focus (09:30–11:15) �*

Students participate in structured academic sessions led by expert tutors, focusing on interactive learning, discussion, and real-world application.

Midday: Lunch & Recharge (11:15–13:15) 🍽️

A relaxed lunch break allows students to refuel and recharge before afternoon learning.

Early Afternoon: Deepening Learning (13:15–15:00) ✍️

Afternoons feature workshops, seminars, project work, and opportunities for 1:1 academic support.

Mid-Afternoon: Short Break (15:00–15:30) ☕

A short break to refresh before enrichment activities.

Late Afternoon: Enrichment & Exploration (15:30–17:30) �*

Students enjoy masterclasses, guest speakers, creative challenges, sports, or city excursions, bringing learning beyond the classroom.

Evening: Dinner & Community Time (18:00–19:30) 🍽️

Dinner provides time to unwind and reflect with peers and mentors.

Evening Activities: Culture & Connection (19:30–21:00) �*

Evenings include talks, showcases, challenges, city experiences, and celebration events.

Night: Wind Down & Prepare (After 21:00) �*

Students return to accommodation to relax and prepare for the following day.

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Can the Institution Accommodate Dietary Requirements? �*

Yes. All dietary requirements can be accommodated.

Breakfast and dinner are provided by experienced college catering teams who regularly serve university students and are well-versed in a wide range of dietary needs. Dietary information is shared with catering teams in advance, though students with allergies are encouraged to confirm allergens with staff at mealtimes as an additional precaution.

Please note:

• Participants do not have access to a kitchen

• Lunch is included for most programmes

• Lunch is not included for:

• Ages 16–18 in Oxford/Cambridge

• Ages 15–18 at other campuses

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What’s Included in the Programme Fee ✅

The participation fee includes:

• Accommodation at the University of Sydney

• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

• 28 hours of academic sessions

• Study and lecture materials

• Designated mentors and 1:1 tutor support

• Guest speaker sessions

• Personalised tutor evaluation

• All activities, excursions, and day trips

• Comprehensive insurance

• Graduation ceremony and certificate

• Tutor-written assessment

Travel to and from the programme is not included.

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How Do I Get to the Programme? ✈️

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) is the main arrival airport.

A chaperoned shared airport transfer service is available, departing at:

• 11:00

• 14:00

• 17:00

Transfer cost: £85 per journey

For train arrivals, Macdonaldtown Station is the nearest station—approximately a 14-minute walk or 5-minute drive from the college.

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Are Staff Members Background-Checked? 🛡️

Yes. All staff undergo enhanced background checks, including DBS checks in the UK or equivalent international standards. Staff also receive comprehensive safeguarding training before and during the programme.

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What Will I Receive After the Programme? �*

• Certificate of Participation (awarded at graduation)

• Detailed tutor feedback evaluating progress

• Recommendations for future academic development

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Do You Accept Non-Residential Day Students? �*

Yes, non-residential places are available.

Day students are expected to attend all activities between 09:00 and 21:30 on weekdays and must be dropped off and collected by a designated adult approved in writing by parents or guardians.

Day students:

• May join for breakfast

• Participate in all activities and excursions

• Have dinner included

• Lunch exclusions follow the same age/location rules

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Will There Be Internet Access? �*

Yes. Wi-Fi access is provided on arrival.

Students are advised to have a small mobile data package, as programme updates and important messages are communicated digitally, especially during off-site excursions.

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Do I Need a Visa to Visit Australia? �*

International participants may require a visa. Please apply well in advance, as the institution cannot be held responsible for non-attendance due to visa refusal.

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Do You Accept Students from All Nationalities? �*

Yes. The programme is committed to fostering global citizenship, respect, tolerance, and understanding. Students from all nationalities are welcome where legally and operationally possible.

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What Should I Bring? �*

A full packing list will be provided after enrolment. All students must bring a personal laptop to fully participate in academic sessions.

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What Happens on Arrivals Day? �*

Arrivals day offers a relaxed introduction to the programme.

• Rolling accommodation tours run 14:00–17:00

• Parents and families are welcome

• A Welcome Talk introduces key information and staff

• Evening activities help students bond with peers and mentors

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Excursions & Activities in Sydney 🇦�*

Explore Sydney’s Famous Landmarks

Walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, visit the Sydney Opera House, and spend time at Bondi Beach, soaking in breathtaking coastal views.

Discover Sydney’s Rich History

Explore historic areas like The Rocks, and visit museums that bring Australia’s past to life.

Enjoy Cultural Adventures

Experience Sydney’s diverse culture through Chinatown, bustling markets, ferry trips to Manly, or visits to Taronga Zoo.

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An Exprience Like No Other ✨

Sydney is more than a destination—it’s a place that inspires growth, independence, and new perspectives. Each day offers opportunities to learn, connect, and explore, creating an unforgettable academic and cultural experience that stays with students long after summer ends.