Study Mind logo Study Mind
Official UK Government Partner

Join our Creative Writing Summer Career Camp today!

Creative Writing Summer Career Camp is an immersive programme for students aged 15–18 passionate about storytelling, poetry, screenwriting, and publishing. It offers workshops, projects, and mentorship from writers. Students develop skills in fiction, journalism, editing, and narrative structure, build portfolios, and receive university application support and personalised feedback guidance certificate.

creative writing work experience

On this page you can find

What Is the Creative Writing Summer Career Camp?

The Creative Writing Summer Career Camp is a structured programme combining academic learning with practical writing experience. Students engage in workshops, writing challenges, and collaborative activities that reflect real creative environments. They learn how to develop characters, structure narratives, create emotional impact, and communicate ideas across genres. The course also covers editing, publishing, storytelling techniques, and audience engagement while building skills in creativity, communication, teamwork, and critical thinking. Alongside writing practice, students receive university support including personal statements, portfolio development, interview preparation, and academic mentoring. This blend of creativity and academic guidance prepares students for future study and creative writing careers. 

  • Ages: 15 - 18 years old
  • Duration: 1 or 2 weeks
  • Class size: 10-12 students
  • Location | Central London
HIGHLIGHTS

Highlights and Skills Students Will Learn

The camp allows students to explore fiction writing, poetry, scriptwriting, publishing, and storytelling techniques. Scroll to see some of our highlights:

Fiction and Storytelling WorkshopsStudents develop storytelling skills through fiction workshops, learning plot, character, dialogue, pacing, and world-building to create engaging, professional-quality stories.
Poetry and Creative ExpressionStudents explore poetry and creative expression, experimenting with language, rhythm, imagery, and techniques to build confidence and unique writing voice.
Scriptwriting and ScreenwritingStudents learn scriptwriting for film, TV, and theatre, exploring scene structure, dialogue, pacing, and visual storytelling through practical exercises.
Editing, Publishing and Portfolio BuildingStudents learn publishing, editing, manuscript preparation, and portfolio development, polishing work and building a professional portfolio for future opportunities.
Writing Research Project and Personalised FeedbackStudents complete creative writing projects while improving creativity, storytelling, thinking, and writing skills through personalised tutor feedback and guidance.
University and Creative Career PreparationStudents receive guidance on university applications, portfolio preparation, personal statements, and creative careers including publishing, journalism, and screenwriting.
Plan Your Path

Choose from a 1 or 2 week programme

Pick a date that suits you and kickstart your creative writing career today.

Tutors

Meet your professional mentors

Our Creative Writing Summer Career Camp is led by experienced writers, educators, editors, and university advisors who are passionate about developing the next generation of storytellers and creative thinkers. With small group sizes, students receive personalised support, expert mentorship, and valuable feedback throughout the programme.

Miles Schenker
English and Related Literature | Writer | University of York

With a passion for the arts and humanities, Miles thrives on the diverse range of topics their field offers, encouraging others to embrace the vast opportunities English Literature can provide.

Finnian Fitzpatrick
BAQTS History | Post Graduate Diploma in Education

Professor Finnian Fitzpatrick is a highly accomplished academic and creative professional with a profound dedication to the art of writing. His academic background reflects a strong foundation in both historical studies and educational methodologies.

DR Julia Bell
Creative Writing programme | Writer | University of London

Her creative work spans poetry, lyric essays, and short stories, which have been featured in esteemed publications such as the Paris Review, Times Literary Supplement, The White Review, Mal Journal, and Comma Press, as well as recorded for the BBC.

Judith Corp
UCAS Advisor | English Teacher

Judith Corp is a highly successful accredited UCAS adviser with a wealth of experience in helping students to establish their goals and enjoy success. Judith has served as Head of English, Head of Creative Arts and Head of 6th Form in grammar schools in Kent for many years and specialises in UCAS admissions and university preparation.

WHY STUDY MIND

Hands-on creative learning: writing in practise

Our Creative Writing Summer Career Camp focuses on immersive creative experiences that help students understand professional writing beyond the classroom. Through workshops, collaborative projects, editing sessions, and publishing activities, students develop valuable creative and academic skills.

Writer editing a manuscript and reviewing written work during a creative writing workshop
Real-world creative writing experiences
Students participate in storytelling workshops, scriptwriting exercises, editing sessions, publishing activities, and collaborative writing projects designed to reflect real creative industry environments.
Students networking with a writing industry professional during a creative careers workshop
Network with writers and industry professionals
Engage with experienced authors, editors, journalists, and publishing professionals through guest sessions and mentorship opportunities. Students gain valuable insight into writing careers and creative industries.
Students working together on an industry-linked creative writing project with notebooks, laptops, and group discussion
Industry-linked creative projects
Students complete practical writing projects that encourage creativity, storytelling, communication, and critical thinking while helping them build professional writing portfolios.
Student discussing academic opportunities during a biology summer camp career guidance session.
University and creative career preparation
The programme provides structured support for students applying to creative writing, English literature, journalism, media, or related university courses. Students receive guidance on personal statements, portfolio development, and interviews.
Students collaborating on a creative writing project using a laptop, developing communication, teamwork, and transferable skills
Build key transferable skills
Students strengthen valuable skills including communication, storytelling, creativity, editing, teamwork, leadership, analytical thinking, and confidence in presenting ideas.
International students exploring London together during a creative writing summer school programme
International experience in London
Students experience life in London, one of the world’s leading cultural and literary cities. Participants meet students from different countries while building confidence, independence, and global connections.
Students holding certificates after completing a biology summer camp programme and celebrating their achievement.
Certificate of attendance
All participants receive a certificate of completion recognising their participation, creative development, and academic achievement. This certificate can support UCAS applications, portfolios, and future opportunities.
WHY STUDY MIND

Why choose our Creative Writing Summer Career Camp?

Our programme helps students develop confidence in their writing abilities, explore creative careers, and build a professional portfolio of written work.

1Portfolio development and certification

All students receive a certificate of attendance and complete creative writing projects that can strengthen personal statements, university applications, and future creative opportunities.

2Small group learning ensures personalised support

Small class sizes allow students to receive focused guidance, individual feedback, and meaningful mentorship throughout the programme.

3Real-world writing and publishing experiences

Hands-on projects allow students to experience professional creative processes including editing, publishing, scriptwriting, and storytelling development.

WHY STUDY MIND

Academic & career preparation for aspiring writers

  • Our curriculum bridges the gap between school-level English studies and professional creative industries through practical writing workshops, publishing projects, and networking opportunities.
  • Personal statement workshops, portfolio guidance, and mock interview sessions help students prepare strong university applications for creative subjects.
  • Students participate in storytelling workshops, scriptwriting exercises, editing sessions, collaborative projects, and literary discussions designed to strengthen creative abilities.
  • Participants develop communication, collaboration, leadership, and confidence while forming friendships with like-minded students from around the world.
Contact Us

location UCL Ramsay Hall
UCL Ramsay Halls View Location
ACCOMMODATION

Where do students stay?

Experience the best of London by staying in University College London’s (UCL) central halls, Ramsay Hall. This accommodation, linked to one of the world’s top universities, is ideally located near Oxford Street in the centre of London. We offer:

  • Private rooms and shared spaces
  • 24/7 security, supervision and support
  • Meals and amenities
  • Excursions, sightseeing and evening social events
  • Networking opportunities with students from around the world
Contact Us
ALUMNI

Hear from Students

Get inspired and read firsthand feedback from students around the world on how they enjoyed the creative writing summer school.

 

Jodie
Jodie
United Kingdom United KingdomEnrolled in 1st week

I absolutely loved the summer school. We did all different types of writing and learned how to write exciting stories. The practice workshops enabled me to learn how to construct my ideas, and the tutors' feedback was really helpful.

Peter
Peter
United Kingdom United KingdomEnrolled in 1st week

We did a combination of theoretical and practical writing exercises, which made the summer school both informative and fun. To me, my personal favorite session was character development, as it showed me new ways to flesh out my stories. The last workshop was an excellent chance to have other people read my work and build up my confidence in writing.

Ivan
Ivan
United Kingdom United KingdomEnrolled in 1st week

This experience made me feel braver to write imaginatively, not worrying about 'getting it wrong’. I most benefited from the sessions on world-building and dialogue, and I believe that my writing has been enhanced by these sessions particularly. I also enjoyed experimenting with other genres. The summer school was a great way to develop my skills and get to know other people who are interested in creative writing!

Amelia
Amelia
United Kingdom United KingdomEnrolled in 1st week

I didn't realise how much technical skill goes into creative writing! I enjoyed studying narrative devices and poetry forms, and the class discussions with fellow students were informative and interesting. I also found the UCAS application session to be extremely useful, as it helped me plan my next steps in studying English.

Trustpilot avatar 1 Trustpilot avatar 2 Trustpilot avatar 3 Trustpilot avatar 4
Trusted by 452 students
Pricing

Creative writing work experience 2026 packages

Whether you choose 1 week or 2 weeks, we’ve got you covered.

1 week
Rising Talent £1799.00

Kickstart your career with confidence

Book Now

  • Introduction to Creative Writing
  • Creative Writing Master Class
  • Writing in the Wild (Out of Classroom)
  • Script Writing
  • Building Character Through Dialogue
  • UCAS Applications and Careers
3 weeks
Future Leader £3999.00

Build a solid foundation for a brighter future

Book Now

  • The Ultimate Immersive Experience
  • Included:
  • Week 1
  • Week 2
  • Career & Life Skills Week
  • Professional Networking
HOW TO BOOK

How to Apply for the Creative Writing Summer Career Camp?

Applying for the Creative Writing Summer Career Camp is simple, quick, and fully online, making the process convenient for both students and parents.

1Choose your programme

Visit the official website and navigate to the application section where you will find clear instructions and an easy-to-use application form.

2Receive confirmation and preparation materials

Applicants receive a confirmation email with additional programme information, creative preparation guidance, and resources to help students prepare before the camp begins.

3Complete your experience

Participate in writing workshops, storytelling projects, publishing activities, and mentorship sessions while developing creative skills and earning a certificate of completion.

DOWNLOAD A BROCHURE

See how this experience can transform your life

Gain real-world experience and kickstart your future today

  • Gain real-world, hands-on experience
  • Enhance university applications and career goals
  • Experience life as a university student
  • Connect with experts to boost future opportunities
FAQs

Frequently asked questions

You can find commonly asked questions below. If you have other questions, please contact us and we’d be happy to answer them.

Can this programme help me prepare for a creative writing course at university?

Yes, this programme offers a comprehensive introduction to various writing forms, such as non-fiction, scriptwriting, and travel writing. With practical assignments and expert feedback, this creative writing work experience will help you strengthen your personal statement and demonstrate your passion for writing in your UCAS application.

Do I need previous writing experience?

No prior writing experience is required to join the Creative Writing Summer Career Camp. The programme is designed for students of all experience levels, including beginners who want to explore creative writing for the first time.

Students are introduced to storytelling techniques, poetry, scriptwriting, editing, and creative expression through supportive workshops and guided exercises. More experienced writers can further develop advanced storytelling and portfolio-building skills.

How is the content delivered, and will I receive any formal certification?

The programme combines interactive workshops, personal projects, and expert-led sessions on different writing styles, including memoirs, essays, and scriptwriting. Upon completion, you’ll receive a certificate that can be added to your CV and UCAS application, showcasing your work experience in creative writing.

What creative writing skills will I learn during the programme?

You’ll explore different genres, including memoirs, travel writing, and scriptwriting. The programme will also teach techniques for writing engaging dialogue and creating compelling narratives, all of which are essential for any aspiring writer. These skills will enrich your work experience for creative writing and help build a strong foundation for future writing projects.

How many students are in a group?

There will be no more than 12 students in every programme group. This allows for small group teaching and workshops to ensure that you get the best out of your experience.

Does Study Mind have a bursary scheme?

As part of our widening participation scheme, Study Mind runs a bursary scheme for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. These include full bursaries, as well as 75% and 50% bursaries. Applications are now being accepted and students will be informed from the 16th June if they have been accepted into a programme. This scheme is on a first come, first served basis. Students wishing to apply for the scheme will need to:

  • provide proof of receipt of Universal Credit, Free School Meals and Pupil Premium. 
  • Fill in the Bursary Application Form
  • complete an essay task.
  • provide a reference from a teacher (either head of sixth form or relevant subject teacher). This can be a character reference and include information on general work ethic and grades if applicable.

Students who partially meet this criteria are welcome to apply, and may be offered discounted places where free places are already assigned.

If you feel you may be eligible, kindly email camps@studymind.co.uk with evidence attached. Alternatively, you can contact us via phone at +44 (0) 203 305 9593 to discuss any questions you have. Please note, we will not be able to provide accommodation.

How can I customise my creative writing work experience?

You can customise your work experience in several ways with two or three week options available:

Career & Life Skills: You can choose to add a second week with our Career & Life Skills week. In this experience you will learn all about digital literacy and creating your personal brand to market yourself to future employers with LinkedIn profiles and standout CVs. You will also learn about Financial Literacy, including loans, mortgages and taxes. You will navigate the world of AI and find out how to optimise it when using it to assist you with documents like your personal statement.

A Related Work Experience Week: You can also choose to extend your work experience by choosing one of our related programmes including Media & Journalism. Or if you're thinking about a different career as well, you can choose something completely different!

What skills will I gain during the creative writing programme?

Students develop a wide range of academic, creative, and transferable skills including:

  • Storytelling and narrative development
  • Communication and creative expression
  • Editing and proofreading
  • Critical thinking and analytical reasoning
  • Scriptwriting and dialogue creation
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Confidence in presenting ideas
  • Creativity and problem-solving

These skills are highly valuable for university applications, creative industries, and future academic opportunities.

Are international students welcome?

Yes. International students are welcome and fully supported throughout the programme. Guidance is provided for travel, accommodation, and settling in, ensuring a smooth transition to living and learning in a new environment.

Language support is also available if needed, helping students participate fully in coding exercises, workshops, and collaborative projects. The inclusive environment ensures that students from all backgrounds can gain valuable skills, confidence, and networking opportunities in computer science.

How can this programme help me decide if a career in creative writing is right for me?

This programme offers hands-on experience with various writing techniques and allows you to explore different forms of writing. By creating personal projects and receiving feedback from industry professionals, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of what a career in creative writing entails and if it aligns with your interests and strengths.

Are there any guest speakers or special events included in the programme?

Yes, throughout the programme, you’ll be introduced to experienced writers from different fields. They will share insights into the writing industry, offer career advice, and provide valuable guidance to help you understand what it takes to succeed in creative writing, from scriptwriting to memoirs.

Will I have the opportunity to network with writing professionals?

Certainly! The programme provides opportunities to interact with published authors, scriptwriters, and industry experts. Through workshops and one-on-one sessions, you’ll gain invaluable advice and guidance on how to pursue a career in writing and publishing, making this work experience in creative writing a valuable step towards your future.

What is the eligibility criteria for the work experience programmes?

In order to book this opportunity, you will need to meet the following criteria:

  • You are a student in Year 10, Year 11, Year 12 or Year 13 (ages 15-18)
  • You have a genuine passion for your chosen subject/career
  • You have obtained consent to attend from a parent/carer
  • You are able to attend one of the weeks advertised
  • While we do not assess for language understanding, you will need a good level of English (minimum equivalent of CEFR B1 or IELTS 4.0-5.0) to allow you to make the most of the programme

If you have questions about the above criteria, you can reach out to us via email at camps@studymind.co.uk or contact us via the form to speak to one of our programme advisors.

What should I bring to the work experience week?

We recommend that students bring a notepad and pen to take notes (or a device to write on). In addition, students should bring a water bottle for the day. Students do not need to bring lunch as this will be provided but they might want to bring a couple of snacks to eat throughout the day. Please make sure these snacks are NUT FREE to take into account any students that may have nut allergies.

If students are travelling to different venues or excursions, all transport costs will be covered. All residential evening activities are also covered. Residential students (especially those on a two-week programme) may wish to bring some spending money with them.

Students on certain programmes such as Computer Science, will need to bring their own device. If you have not got a laptop, one will be provided - please communicate this via email camps@studymind.co.uk in advance of the programme start date. A specialised list will be communicated nearer to the time.

Where is the work experience located?

The summer school takes place in London, offering a blend of university-style laboratory sessions and outdoor field trips to nearby ecosystems and biodiversity research sites.

Where is the accommodation?

Students opting for the residential programme will stay in Ramsay Hall, part of the University College London (UCL) campus. Students will stay in single occupancy rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Male and female students will be placed in separate floors.

When do I check in and check out of the accommodation?

Students will be able to arrive on the Sunday before the start of the programme. There will be a member of the Study Mind team to greet you. Students will check out on the Friday after the programme has ended. If you would like to book an extra night accommodation (e.g. Friday night), please contact us and we can arrange this for you (dependant on availability).

When will I receive a schedule of activities?

Students can expect to receive a finalised timetable of their work experience week by the end of May. Students will also receive further information on what to pack/bring and pre-preparation materials by mid June so that they can prepare themselves for the programme and get the most out of their experience.

How do you ensure the programme is a safe space for all students?

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment where all students feel confident in expressing their creative ideas. Our team ensures that the programme is a safe and welcoming space, and we address any concerns promptly to maintain a positive atmosphere for everyone.

Is the Creative Writing programme suitable for students with additional learning needs or disabilities?

Yes, we strive to make the programme accessible for all students. If you have any specific learning requirements, please let us know in advance, and we’ll make any necessary adjustments to accommodate your needs, ensuring that you get the most out of your work experience in creative writing.

What support is available if I have questions or concerns during the programme?

Our dedicated support team is available to assist you throughout the programme. Whether you need academic guidance or have any concerns, we ensure that help is always available to support your development in creative writing.

How do you ensure student safety during the programme?

All sessions are conducted in a secure, structured environment. Our staff members are DBS-checked, and we adhere to strict safeguarding policies to ensure the safety and well-being of every student. If you’re staying in accommodation, staff are available 24/7, and university security is also on site at all times.

Is accommodation supervised?

Yes. Residential accommodation is fully supervised by trained staff to ensure the safety and well-being of all students. Residential students stay in secure housing with 24/7 support, including structured daily schedules, meals, and academic guidance.Non-residential students also benefit from structured support during the day, including access to teachers, mentors, and learning facilities. The camp’s supervision ensures that students can focus on learning and projects in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.

How do I book, and what are the entry requirements?

Booking is easy! Simply select the programme, choose your desired dates, and complete your booking through the website. The programme is open to students aged 15-18, and no prior creative writing experience is required. If you’re an international student, a good level of English is essential to fully participate in the programme.

How does this programme compare to traditional creative writing work experience?

Traditional placements can be difficult to secure and may not offer the same level of structured learning. Our programme provides hands-on experience with expert guidance in scriptwriting, memoir writing, and more. It gives you an opportunity to develop your writing in a supportive environment, making it a more enriching experience than traditional work experience for creative writing.

Does Study Mind offer any additional support after the programme ends?

Yes, we continue to support you even after the programme ends. We offer guidance with UCAS applications, personal statement writing, and career advice.

Who are the professionals leading the Creative Writing programme?

Our mentors include published authors, experienced scriptwriters, and industry professionals who are passionate about nurturing the next generation of writers. They provide tailored guidance, offer industry insights, and help you build the skills you need to succeed in work experience chemistry and writing careers.

What makes Study Mind’s Creative Writing programme unique?

Our programme blends creative exploration with structured learning, giving you the chance to work on real-world projects and receive personalised feedback. With a focus on practical writing skills, such as dialogue techniques and non-fiction writing, this is a unique opportunity to gain invaluable work experience in creative writing, which will give you a strong foundation for future writing projects and career aspirations.