Your Voice

An intensive KS3 programme to boost confidence and language skills in writing, discussion and sharing. 

Led by a professional writer, three in-school workshops will encourage students to experiment with language and style to give their writing nuance and impact, the confidence to use their own voice and share their work. Workshops offer students the help they need to build confidence with writing and oracy skills in a fun and engaging way. 

At the end of the course students are invited to attend a First Story Young Writers event*, hosted by a university partner. During the day, they will participate in creative writing workshops run by professional writers, culminating in the opportunity to share their work with a peer audience.  

Your Voice supports students in key curriculum areas including: 

• working collaboratively with their peers to discuss reading, writing and speech
  
• writing fluently to communicate their ideas and emotions to others 

• refining their drafting skills and developing resilience to write at length 
  
• developing planning, drafting, editing and proof-reading skills 

Schools receive 

• Three x 60 minute professional writer-led workshops in school (during the school day or after school).
  
  
• In-school launch meeting with an experienced First Story team member and the writer to agree programme content tailored to your students’ particular needs 
  
  
• On going support with a First Story allocated team member who can advise on other creative and cultural opportunities for your students 

• Free tickets to a First Story Young Writers event*, hosted by a university partner 

• Guidance on how to run your own in-school writing celebration event 
  
  
• CPD with practical ways to teach writing skills in the classroom and encourage creativity in students by working alongside a professional writer  

*Up to 25 students and two teachers can attend either our Young Writers Festival North, Manchester Metropolitan University, 3^rd June or London Connect, University of Greenwich, 1^st July. 

Get involved 

Your Voice is aimed at groups of up to 25 low confidence writers in Years 7 to 9. Perfect for students in receipt of Pupil Premium or facing barriers to learning.  

State schools with over 22.5% of pupils receiving free school meals are eligible to apply.

Complete the expression of interest form below to find out more.  

Your Voice is a subsidised programme and is being offered at a special introductory price of £38* per student to eligible schools (a 50% discount on the full cost of the programme). First Story is grateful to the many funders who make this possible.