In short: no. You don’t need a background in writing — just a willingness to start.

This is one of the most common questions we hear. Not just from beginners, but from people who’ve had an idea floating around for years and are finally ready to do something about it.

And usually, it’s not just about “experience.”
It’s about wondering whether you’ll belong in the room.

Let’s clear that up.

You don’t need to have:

• Studied English or Drama
• Written scripts before
• Read the entire works of Chekhov
• Known you wanted to be a writer since childhood
• Even written recently

Plenty of our students join us with nothing more than a few story ideas, a half-started notebook, or just the urge to try something creative.

So who are these courses for?

• Adults trying something new after a long time out of education
• People looking for a structured but relaxed way to develop their voice
• TV and theatre lovers who’ve always wondered what it’s like to write a scene
• Those who’ve dabbled in writing and now want focused feedback and direction

No one arrives fully formed. You’re not expected to either.

What happens in a beginner writing class?

Our Writing for Performance – Beginners course is designed for people starting from scratch. It’s practical, supportive, and gently paced.

Over 10 weeks, you’ll learn how to:

• Shape your ideas into short scenes
• Write dialogue that actors can bring to life
• Create believable characters with something to say
• Read and discuss your work in a safe, no-ego space
• Hear your words read aloud — often for the first time

You won’t be lectured at. You’ll be doing the writing, week by week — with smart exercises, guided feedback, and a proper end goal in mind.

What if I’m nervous about sharing my work?

That’s normal. Most people are — especially at the start. But one of the unexpected joys of the course is hearing your words read aloud, and realising… they land.

You’ll never be pushed before you’re ready.
You’ll be supported by a tutor who knows how to create a generous, no-showing-off space.

And by the end, most people are proud — and a little surprised — by how far they’ve come.

What if I’ve already done some writing?

You’re still welcome — especially if you’re looking to sharpen the basics or try writing for performance for the first time.

If you’ve already written scripts and want to focus on form, you might be ready for one of our intermediate courses:

• Writing for Theatre
• Writing for Radio
• Writing for Film
• Writing for Comedy
• Writing for Soap

(We’re happy to help you choose — just ask.)