Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Update for Schools

We’re keen to assist our partner schools to implement COVID-19 recovery plans. First Story’s Young Writers programme has much to contribute, supporting learning and engagement across the curriculum. Our writing workshops also support students’ social and emotional wellbeing, creating a safe space in which participants can express themselves, explore issues, and build confidence.

We’ve consulted extensively to develop a flexible programme delivery model for 2020/21 that can accommodate expected post-COVID restrictions.

Flexible timetabling

We’ll work flexibly within your school’s revised timetable and, if necessary, we can deliver First Story workshops during core hours e.g. as part of timetabled enrichment or recovery curriculum activities.

Blended learning

We’ve developed a blended model for this year, combining in-person and digital provision, to keep your First Story programme running with minimal disruption. Your Writer-in-Residence will deliver in-person workshops whenever possible, while being fully prepared to convert to remote provision as necessary. Live virtual workshops can be delivered via your school’s choice of online platform. First Story’s extended offer of events and activities, and our annual Young Writers’ Festival, will also be developed for digital platforms and virtual engagement.

Alternative delivery models

First Story’s Young Writer’s programme – designed to provide deep learning for a targeted group – usually engages up to 20 students in 16 weeks of intensive writing workshops, beginning in the autumn term. This year, we anticipate some schools may find this model more challenging to accommodate in the context of COVID-19 and related restrictions. To minimise barriers to participation, we’ve created alternative delivery models that schools may choose from. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with your local First Story programme lead, to find out more about these options and discuss what else might be possible. Where we can, we’re keen to work with your school’s particular circumstances.

Get in touch with your local First Story programme lead:

First Story East Midlands
First Story West Yorkshire
First Story Hull and Humberside
First Story London

Alternatively, complete our online Expression of Interest form here.

Update for supporters

The pandemic has impacted the finances of charities everywhere. It’s a difficult time for many organisations and individuals. Fundraising is always a challenge, but we expect 2020/21 to be First Story’s toughest year yet. What our organisation provides to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds isn’t a luxury. Now, more than ever, it is a necessity. If you are able to invest in transforming young people’s lives, please consider making a gift today, to support First Story’s vitally important programmes. If you have the capacity to support our work with a larger donation and/or you’re able to make a deeper commitment, please get in touch to explore how you could make a significant difference. Thank you.