Literary experts nurture aspiring young writers

Young Writers

The next generation of writers developed their writing skills at a one day event at Western Sydney University on 16 September. This year the highly anticipated Young Writers' Day took place at the University's Campbelltown campus, with 160 high school students from 19 schools taking part.

Budding writers and their teachers attended workshops run by accomplished Australian authors and university academics, where they learned tips and tricks to hone their writing skills.

Dr Fiona Wright, Giramondo (opens in a new window) author and winner of the prestigious 2016 Kibble Award, began the day with a keynote address offering insights and advice on personal storytelling, followed by workshops run by authors across a range of genres.

The year 10 and 11 students participated in practical exercises on topics such as journalism, creative writing, slam poetry and unpacking how to 'show not tell'. Teachers attended a workshop run by award-winning Young Adult writer James Roy (opens in a new window) on the use of secrets in fostering creative writing in students.

Young Writers 1

The annual Young Writers' Day is an opportunity for students to practise and develop their writing skills as well as meet and learn from prominent writers in different creative fields.

Anne McLean, Manager, Schools Engagement said "We have some very talented young writers in Western Sydney and this event helps them to explore new perspectives and think about their writing in different ways. They enjoy working with like-minded peers from other schools. I'm sure they'll go on to achieve great things."

This year the following schools participated in Young Writers' Day: