APPRENTICESHIPS – About the scheme

Apprenticeships in Fiction is a national scheme designed to nurture emerging writers at a key stage in their careers. It is aimed at aspiring novelists who have already made a considerable commitment to the development of their practice and would benefit from a year of transitional support.

This is an opportunity to work towards publication, within the context of current industry trends and standards. Apprentices will benefit from engaging directly with an experienced writer-mentor who will guide them through the process of writing a first novel, from first draft to completion.

Each apprenticeship comprises a structured year-long programme of interactive workshops, manuscript appraisals and tutorials in addition to regular, ongoing feedback and peer group support.

The programme includes:

• An introductory intensive workshop on the key elements of successful fiction.

• A six-stage approach designed to address every aspect of the writing process.

• A practical step-by-step approach.

• A concluding workshop with a literary agent on framing and selling an idea.

• A guaranteed introduction to a leading literary agent for writers who demonstrate clear publishing potential.

This is a highly competitive and demanding programme that seeks to fast-track aspiring writers of outstanding talent. At the end of the year, apprentices will ‘graduate’ with an objective overview of their own work and a clear grasp of the requirements of the publishing industry. We are aiming to bring together a dynamic group of highly talented individuals drawn from a range of cultural, ethnic and regional communities.

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