Writing and Publishing Skills Hub
Educational and development opportunities for writers and creatives of all ages
The Skills Hub was launched in autumn 2022, funded by the North of Tyne Combined Authority and other local funders. Taking place across Newcastle, North Tyneside and Northumberland as well as supporting a substantial online offer, the Writing and Publishing Skills Hub will empower people across the region with an exciting range of courses, activities and events to build skills and careers in the sector.
Over three years, New Writing North will create opportunities from school roadshows for pupils interested in pursuing a career in the creative industries, to networking and business skills training for practitioners and SMEs. Professional development opportunities, conferences and courses will all be available to new and emerging writers across the region. New volunteer training programmes will support people with a passion for books to develop their own skills and experience through community reading and festival programmes.
The Writing and Publishing Skills Hub also builds on New Writing North’s innovative artist investment programmes, awarding bursaries and support to help writers develop new projects. Our award-winning Young Writers programme will also be extended, with new groups in Berwick and North Shields and a new publishing Summer School.
In total the Skills Hub will create or enhance 16 areas of work, developing pathways into the industry and making a unique offer for skills growth in the region.
Current Skills Hub projects
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New Writing North Academy
On New Writing North Academy online writing courses, you will explore the techniques used by leading contemporary writers, learn to critique work-in-progress, develop your own voice and hone your writing craft.
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Start Writing in Libraries
These creative writing courses will be delivered by award-winning professional writers in libraries across Newcastle, North Tyneside and Northumberland. You’ll have the opportunity to explore writing across forms and learn to access your creative side.
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North East Novelists
We are looking for North East novelists to join a new professional development group. The journey of developing your writing doesn’t end when you sign with your agent, get your first book deal, or even when you’re publishing your third, fourth or fifth novel. This group will offer continuing craft development and a supportive network for writers navigating life as a professional author.
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Young Creative Associates
Young Creative Associates is a 9-month development programme open to 18-30-year-olds living in the North of Tyne area. The programme is designed to guide and support the next generation of creative industry entrepreneurs in the region.
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Inkubator
Inkubator is a development programme for writers and songwriters who want to develop their skills in facilitation and participatory arts practice with children, young people and adults.First Edition is a group for 18-25 year olds interested in creative careers and opportunities. The programme includes regular masterclasses with professional writers, opportunities to develop your own skills as a writer or creative practitioner.
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First Edition
First Edition is a group for 18-25 year olds interested in creative careers and opportunities. The programme includes regular masterclasses with professional writers, opportunities to develop your own skills as a writer or creative practitioner.
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Newcastle Writing Conference
New Writing North’s writing conference is an event for writers at all stages of their careers. It aims to demystify the world of publishing and supports writers to make connections with peers and industry experts.
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Sounds Good: How to get started in audio and podcasting
Whether you’re brand new or working your way around learning audio and podcasting, Sounds Good is a three-hour course to help empower your creative ideas and production skills.
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Creative Associates
Creative Associates bring fresh perspectives to the organisation, while being supported to develop their own creative projects and artistic practice.
