Creative Writing Courses

If you’re keen to expand your writing skills, or thinking about dipping your toe into the world of online courses, look no further.

As the author of four novels and a work of non-fiction, I have a wealth of experience to share.

I am an associate tutor of creative writing at the University of Dundee, deliver courses on behalf of Lifelong Learning Dundee and have been involved with writing for wellbeing in various healthcare settings over many years.

Unlock your creativity!

WRITING JUST FOR YOU #20

NEXT BLOCK COMING (FAIRLY)SOON!

I can’t believe we’re already on our 20th block of WJFY but don’t worry if you are new or haven’t written much before- the emphasis on relaxation and writing for fun so there is no pressure and no ‘wrong’ way to do things!

TIME: Monday evenings for four weeks, 6.30pm-7.30pm

DATES: July 29th/Aug 3/Aug 10/Aug 17

THEMES: Week 1: Step into Summer

Week 2: Symbols of August

Week 3: Leos and Virgos!

Week 4: Childhood summers

The cost is £45 payable by BACS, details available upon booking

Each week, we will have a chat about the theme of the week, and perhaps look at a poem, take part in a mini-meditation (just five minutes of mindful relaxation) and then settle down for 20 minutes of undisturbed writing time (I’ll give you a prompt, which could be an image, video or piece of music). You do not have to share what you’ve written- although some writers do- but you might like to share your thoughts about what the prompt brought up for you. I will also suggest an Artist’s Play Date (inspired by The Artist’s Way) for you to try at home.

In association with Lifelong Learning Dundee

Immerse yourself in the power of words in a series of five-week course both in-person and on zoom. Booking begins in August, so watch this space or look out for my newsletter.

Starting Sept 24th

WRITING THE LANDSCAPE (in-person) Discover the art of crafting vivid landscapes in your writing with our immersive five-week online course, “Writing the Landscape.” Through a blend of guided exercises and inspiring readings, you’ll learn how to bring settings to life, capture mood and atmosphere, and use the environment as a powerful narrative tool. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned writer, this course will help you unlock the secrets of evocative description and transform your stories with the beauty and complexity of place. Join us and explore how landscapes can become characters in their own right, shaping stories and stirring the imagination

Starts Oct 29th

TALES OF THE UNCANNY (online)

Delve into the shadows of storytelling with “Tales of the Uncanny,” our five-week online course designed to unlock the strange, eerie, and extraordinary in your writing. Through dynamic prompts and close attention to classic and contemporary uncanny stories and poems, you’ll master techniques to evoke suspense, fear and psychological tension. Whether you’re drawn to ghostly encounters, unsettling twists, or the thrill of the inexplicable, this course will help you transform the ordinary into the unforgettable. Suitable for all abilities.

OPEN BOOK FREE in-person sessions continue throughout the year.

ARBROATH LIBRARY

All sessions on Monday afternoons, 1.30pm- 3.30pm (4^th Monday of the month)

MAY 25th
JUNE 22nd
AUGUST 24th
SEPT 28th
OCT 26th
NOV 23rd

There will also be sessions in Jan, Feb and March 2027

Just drop in or contact me at sandrairelandauthor@yahoo.co.uk

If you would like to book me for a creative workshop, please check out the Live Literature Database, or get in touch with me at the address above. I can facilitate sessions on all aspects of writing and specialise in writing for wellbeing for groups with long term health and mental wellbeing challenges

SCOTTISH BOOK TRUST

Live Literature Database

Be Mindful

Be Positive

Be Creative

Be Well

Testimonial:

Folklore, fiction, facts and friendship – I found it all when I took part in Sandra Ireland’s online ‘Finding Inspiration through Folklore’ course. In fact, I discovered it was so much more; there was fun, sharing, camaraderie and all the while I was learning, learning, learning.

The course materials provided were informative, easy to access and the exercises inspired me to move forward with my own research and writing. I am now hooked on looking out for stories of local folklore wherever I go!

Sandra’s calm, gentle teaching manner gave us all the confidence to share our own work. It was lovely to feel part of such a kind and supportive group. I look forward to taking part in future courses run by Sandra and would highly recommend them.

Sareen McLay, who took part in ‘Finding Inspiration Through Folklore.’

“Sandra’s generous, welcoming spirit has me returning to workshops, both in person and online, again and again. Sharing her extensive knowledge on a wide range of writing styles – novel, short story, folklore, poetry – in a calm, encouraging manner, means participants blossom and share too, leading to rich, informative classes. If you are offered the opportunity to learn from Sandra, please grasp it firmly with both hands!”

RAE COWIE