At the end of June, we hosted our London Connect event at Goldsmiths, University of London. Students attended from from schools across London.
The day started with an inspiring talk by Dr. Francis Gilbert, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Educational Studies at Goldsmiths, who discussed the origins of the university, and what it is like to be a student there today. Then our host for the day, BAFTA-winning writer Dean Atta, gave students a quick warm up writing activity, setting the fun tone for the day.
Participants then moved to their workshop rooms to take part in morning writing sessions led by First Story writers: Dean Atta, Laurie Bolger, Nicola Garrard, Mr Gee, Adam Kammerling and Rachel Seiffert.
At lunchtime, the participants toured the Goldsmiths campus, led by MA Creative Writing and Education students.
Participants worked with a different First Story writer for the afternoon workshop, which included performance technique and prepared them to share their work in the showcase. Following this, all attendees gathered back in the lecture theatre for an informative panel discussion, hosted by Young Creatives Manager Rose Condo, and featuring our writers, Dr Gilbert and First Story alumni. Then participants took to the floor and read the writing they had created that day in front of attendees.
Finally, we said our goodbyes to students, teachers and writers, as schools made their way home.
We are incredibly grateful for the support of the Goldsmiths and of our First Story Writers for making London Connect such a success.
Feedback
This was our first experience of First Story and was an amazing first impression. Our students are very excited about working more with you in the future.
Teacher, Oriel High School
It was very immersive and collaborative and overall was an amazing experience where writing is held up high for appreciation.
Student who attended London Connect 2026
I found my students were able to devote their energy and creativity in a safe space.
Teacher who attended London Connect 2026
100%
of teachers would recommend taking part in London Connect to other schools.
85%
of students feel more confident in sharing ideas through writing
100%
of teachers agreed that attending the event has helped their students feel more confident to share ideas through writing.
87%
of participants feel more confident about going to university in the future.
Photos by Suzi Corker.
