The National Academy of Writing, backed by many of Britain’s leading authors, novelists and playwrights, selected the UCE Birmingham School of English as its partner in 2006 to run practical courses for budding writers.

The Academy has an enviable list of patrons including Lord Melvyn Bragg, Ian Rankin and Nick Hornby. The courses led by Betty Trask Prize-winner Nicola Monaghan deliver a rich and varied programme, including language studies, literature, creative writing and drama.

For NGA 2007, UCE Birmingham and the Academy will host a series of events offering access to practising writers and world renowned novelists and poets through innovative drop-in surgeries. Open to all, the sessions will demonstrate the quality of creative writing talent that exists in Birmingham and encourage budding and established writers to participate and explore the world of creative writing within the city.

To participate, bring along a creative fiction or poetry synopsis. At the sessions, acclaimed and accomplished writers will help you to develop ideas, structure prose and provide practical advice about the publishing and writing industry.

With thanks to the Creative Partnership, hosts Waterstones and Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, and the participation of National Academy of Writing members Nicola Monaghan, Charles Bennett and Carol Ann Duffy CBE.