Already feeling the effects of TV fatigue? With many of us now stuck at home and out of our usual routines, it can be all too easy to fall into a cycle of channel surfing (and not much else). If, like me, you’ve already binge-watched everything on your Netflix watch list (Tiger King - I’m looking at you), and now find yourself channel flicking to no good end, why not try and write the next Killing Eve and try an online writing class instead? 

It should, of course, go without saying that there should be no pressure for you to come out of lockdown having learned a new skill, language or otherwise (contrary to what social media might have you believe). That said, taking an online writing course could actually help to improve your overall wellbeing, as well as getting those all-important creative juices flowing again. 

So, whether you’re already a seasoned writer just looking for your next creative outlet, or you’ve decided to use this time to take your first step into the world of writing, here’s some online writing masterclasses to help get you inspired.

The Feminist Bookshop

Brighton’s Feminist Bookshop’s popular Creative Writing Workshops with Naomi Woods have now moved online, enabling Brightonians (and now, those further afield) to get their writing fix during lockdown. The two-hour workshops cost just £10 a ticket and can be booked in advance on Eventbrite. The course is suitable for writers of all levels, so perfect if you’re just starting out on your creative journey.

Writers HQ

The folks over at Writers HQ have created an online Coronavirus Lockdown Writing Resource pack, designed to help you reclaim your writing mojo. The resources include free online weekend writing retreats, online creative writing courses, plus a 60-minute novel writing workshop designed for parents and their children. With so many different resources available, there should be something to suit every writer.

Serena Greenslade Poetry Course

Fancy channelling your inner Wordsworth? For just £29.99, Serena Greenslade’s online poetry course will run you through how to write sonnets, narrative poetry, blank verse, free verse and more. Perfect for those just starting out or those needing a little extra help with their poetic form, you’ll also get access to a closed Facebook group where you’ll be able to share your work with your fellow writers (can I get a ‘hallelujah’ for some human communication?)

BBC’s Writers Room - An Introduction to Screenwriting 

If you’ve always wanted to get involved in the world of screenwriting, now could be the time to start with the BBC’s free, online introduction to screenwriting course. Developed alongside The University of East Anglia’s School of Literature, Drama and Creative Writing, it’s ideal for beginners just starting out in screenwriting, and covers a mix of basic theory, script analysis and practical exercises.

Clare Reddaway: Creative Writing Workshop 

Clare Reddaway’s monthly writing workshops and short story discussion sessions have now set up shop online, aiming to support and encourage short story writers through a range of writing exercises. Each two-hour class has its own theme, and are currently being taught over Zoom in amongst a welcoming, judgment-free zone.

Write Club

Need help in developing a writing process? The Write Club’s online creative writing workshops could help you do just that, as well as providing prompts and tips for anyone overcoming writer’s block. With small workshop groups, you’ll also get a chance to connect with their online writing community, and can even sign up for additional, one-to-one support. 

Breathe. Read. Write. 

Held on Saturday evenings (UK time), Breathe/Read/Write combines the best of meditation and creative writing exercises. You’ll also get to take part in a shared writing and poetry feedback session, but no previous meditation or writing experience is needed, so it’s perfect for those of all writing abilities.

Written by Danielle Petch

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