In early July, First Story young writers from across London gathered at the University of Greenwich for our annual London Connect. Students from Aylward Academy, Commerce House, St Paul’s Way School and Thomas Tallis School joined us for a day of creative writing workshops at the historic Old Royal Naval College.
A Creative Welcome
First Story writer Adam Kammerling was host for the day, bringing energy his energy to the stage with a creative warm up. We were then welcomed by Professor Paul Vlitos and Dr John Moreton from the University of Greenwich English Department, before beginning our first creative writing workshops of the day.
Attending events like this is absolutely a vital and fantastic part of the First Story experience that builds passion, confidence and writing craft amongst our students through the engagement of in-person workshops!
Teacher feedback
Workshops in Action
We were joined by a group of experienced First Story writers; Adam Z Robinson, Cecilia Knapp, Rachel Seiffert, Francesca Beard, Camilla Chester and Shagufta K Iqbal, who guided the young writers through creative prompts and exercises.
I liked being able to critique my writing and see it from a different view. We also learned in a very fun yet educational way. I believe I did some amazing work here.
Student feedback
After lunch, students returned to their workshops for the second session of the day, focused on editing and performance skills. The young people chose pieces of work to redraft and refine, speaking their writing out loud to their peers.
It’s been a really fantastic day and the students have really benefitted from exploring writing in a different environment.
Teacher feedback
Creative Showcase
We came back together for one of the most special parts of the day – the student showcase. Young writers took to the stage and shared the writing they had created during the day.
Confidence was a huge positive outcome for our students with many previously shy students volunteering to perform.
Teacher feedback
We are incredibly grateful for the support of the University of Greenwich and of our First Story Writers – without them, none of this would have been possible.
Participants feedback
100%
of teachers would recommend taking part in London Connect to other schools.
82%
of participants felt more confident sharing and talking about their work with others.
90%
of participants would recommend taking part in London Connect to other students.
91%
of participants agreed that after attending London Connect they now enjoy and appreciate writing more.
Time Travel, Crime, and Creativity: An afternoon with Elly Griffiths at Bromley House Library
