Novel Writing for Beginners
This introductory workshop helps you begin your novel-writing journey with practical information, strategies and exercises to support your writing goals.
You will explore the art and craft of novel writing, including how to develop and research your idea, create compelling characters and understand the key elements of story structure. Short excerpts and writing exercises help bring the concepts to life, giving you a chance to put your ideas into practice.
Course Outline
- Developing your idea and world-building: Move from premise to synopsis, research your story, understand genre conventions and establish a vivid sense of place.
- Creating compelling characters: Build three-dimensional characters, explore point of view, develop character voice and shape internal and external conflict.
- Story structure and writing practice: Examine plot, obstacles, narrative arcs and practical tools for setting and maintaining achievable writing goals.
Schedule & Pricing
- Active session: Saturday 15 August 2026, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
- Price: $109 per person.
- Class capacity: 12 participants.
Additional Information
- Resources will be recommended during the session.
- Students may be encouraged to complete suggested reading beforehand, with the reading list to be confirmed.
Details
You will learn
- Develop and research novel ideas, including world-building and genre awareness.
- Create compelling characters with clear voices, arcs and internal and external conflicts.
- Understand story structure, narrative drive and practical tools for maintaining a writing practice.
You will get
- Guided writing exercises to put novel-writing techniques into practice.
- Practical strategies for planning, structuring and shaping a long-form story.
- Recommended resources to support ongoing writing goals.
Appropriate for
Aspiring and emerging writers, well-read beginners, and individuals interested in publishing, media or professional writing.
Preparation
What to bring
- Notebook
- Pen
- Any current novel ideas or draft notes, if available
What to wear
Your Teacher
Sydney Community College
38 reviewsSydney Community College is a registered charity with a voluntary Board of Directors.
The College has a mission to offer innovative continuing adult education and training programmes that support individual efforts and facilitate sustainable social change.
We do this by:
- Providing quality continuing adult education opportunities for people to build practical and theoretical skills and develop knowledge;
- Leveraging from and developing community capacity and inclusivity;
- Developing innovative affordable and accessible skills training programmes;
- Partnering with like organisations to deliver learning opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities;
- Partnering with all levels of government to deliver education policy objectives.
Cancellations & Refunds
If the organiser cancels the class:
You are entitled to a full refund.
If you can't attend the class:
You’re welcome to send someone in your place.
OR
- A refund can be requested 10 days before class starts. An admin fee of AU$45.00 applies.
Terms & Conditions
At Sydney Community College, we know that plans can change unexpectedly. Whether it’s a shift in your schedule, a family emergency, or just a change of heart, we want to support you in the fairest way possible.
At the same time, we’re a not-for-profit organisation that commits resources to running each class—so last-minute cancellations can significantly impact our ability to offer quality, affordable programs.
That’s why we’ve created a simple, transparent policy that balances your need for flexibility with our need to plan and deliver courses sustainably. Our cancellation policy offers two clear options, depending on when you notify us:
Cancel More Than 10 Days Before the Course Starts – You can choose to receive a full refund, minus a $45 administration fee OR a non-refundable credit note valid for 12 months for the full value you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Option 2: Cancel Within 10 Days of the Course Starting - You’ll receive a credit note valid for 12 months for 50% of the course fee you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Please note that both refund and credit options are only available before the course begins. Once the course has started—or if you decide to withdraw after it has commenced—no refunds or credits can be issued. If you need to cancel your enrolment, just email us and we’ll take care of it based on the timelines above.
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Novel Writing for Beginners
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