My partner is an English teacher and I also work in public relations, so you could say that written communication is a valued skill in our household. Although my kids are still mastering the art of writing anything other than their names, you don’t have to convince me of the importance of creative writing for kids.
I spoke to the South Coast Writers Centre director, Dr Sarah Nicholson, about the opportunities this local organisation can offer budding young writers.
Tell us about South Coast Writers Centre (SCWC).
South Coast Writers Centre is a membership-based, non-profit organisation based in Coledale that aims to support writers of all stages. We provide creative events and professional development to writers across the South Coast and Southern Highlands and offer our emerging and established writers space to reach their audiences.
What role does the centre play for Illawarra children?
Like adults, as an organisation, we aim to support young writers as well.
One of our programs is the Young Writers Program, which was started by Helena Fox, an award-winning author of young adult fiction, and a fantastic teacher. Every semester after school, kids can join from age 10 to our graduate group of 18+. Here they can develop their creative writing skills into adulthood. We also have school holiday programs that run across the Illawarra, where we accept Service NSW Creative Kids Vouchers.
Why is writing an important skill for children?
We have a particular focus on creative writing, which is a great way to open up kids’ imaginations and provide them with the skills to express themselves.
We often run programs that foster the skills of art and writing, where the children can publish their own work – giving the gift of seeing themselves as a published author.
Who runs the Young Writers Program?
Along with Helena, we have two teachers, Rhys and Sky, who were originally students of the program. They joined us, after completing their university degrees. You can see more information on them here.
You can keep up to date with current and future programs here.
Current programs include:
Young Writers Program (workshops after school in Term 1) for ages 10-18
