Young Authors Workshop - Spring 2026 - Cambridge
Description
Young Authors Spring Workshop is a fun, practical two-day creative writing workshop where young writers aged 8–12 plan, draft, edit and polish their own short story.
Led by award-winning children’s author, registered teacher and experienced writing tutor Tom E. Moffatt, the workshop introduces the techniques authors use to create memorable characters, gripping problems, funny moments and satisfying endings.
This is not a sit-and-listen workshop. Students will write, share ideas, solve story problems and develop an original story while building their confidence as young authors.
Perfect for children who:
love writing and creating stories
have big ideas but struggle to get them onto the page
would like to become more confident writers
enjoy funny, imaginative or adventurous stories
would benefit from a creative, mostly screen-free holiday activity
Across the two days, students will develop a story they can feel proud of and prepare it for inclusion in a professionally produced group anthology.
The workshop is friendly, structured and encouraging, with plenty of practical guidance, creative prompts and author tips along the way. Places are limited to keep the group supportive and manageable.
Students will receive:
a printed writing workbook
two full days of author-led creative writing instruction
time to plan, draft, edit and polish their story
individual guidance and brief written feedback
a certificate of completion
PDF and ebook editions of the finished anthology
one paperback copy of the anthology
Venue: Cambridge Primary School, Cambridge
Time: 9am–3pm
Dates: Monday 28th and Tuesday 29th of September
Ages: 8–12
If your child loves stories, characters, jokes, imagination or big ideas, this workshop gives them two creative days to turn those ideas into a finished story and become a published young author.
FAQs
- Who is the workshop for?
The workshop is for keen young writers aged 8-12. It is ideal for children who enjoy stories, characters, books, imagination, and creative writing.
- Does my child need to be an advanced writer?
No. They do not need to be perfect spellers or already writing long stories. They just need to be interested in writing and willing to develop their ideas.
- Is this suitable for reluctant writers?
The workshop is mainly aimed at children who already enjoy writing or storytelling. This is not a remedial writing programme, but it can work well for children who enjoy stories and ideas, even if they are not always confident writers.
- What will my child create?
Each student will plan, draft, edit, and polish an original short story. Students will also receive an anthology collection of all the stories in both paperback and ebook format. This is included in the price.
- Will the stories be published?
Yes. Families will receive PDF and ebook editions of the finished story collection within two weeks of the workshop. A printed edition will follow, with every young author receiving their own paperback copy.
- Does my child need to bring a device?
Students are encouraged to bring a charged laptop or Chromebook on Day 2 so they can type and polish their story. If they cannot bring a device, they can still attend, but their story will need to be typed at home and emailed by the deadline if they want it included in the anthology.
- What should my child bring?
Morning tea, lunch, water bottle, pen or pencil, and a charged laptop or Chromebook on Day 2 if possible.
- Is lunch provided?
No. Students need to bring their own food and drink.
- What time does it run?
The workshop runs from 9am to 3pm each day. Drop-off is from 8:45am.
- How many students will be in the group?
Places are limited. The target group size is 12–16 students, with a maximum of 18.
- What happens if not enough students book?
If minimum numbers are not reached, families will receive a full refund.
- What is the refund policy?
Bookings are refundable up to 7 days before the workshop, minus any booking fees. Cancellations within 7 days are non-refundable unless the place can be filled from a waiting list. If the workshop is cancelled due to low numbers, families will receive a full refund.
- Can siblings attend?
Yes. A sibling discount is available.
- Will Tom E. Moffatt's books be available to buy?
Yes. Tom’s books will be available to purchase at the workshop.
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