The Christchurch
School for Young Writers Inc

Providing challenges and fun-filled experiences to children
who are enthusiastic about the craft of writing

The Christchurch School for Young Writers is

.....a non-profit organisation established in June 1993 with the aim of providing extension work for children with talent or enthusiasm for writing.

Children who are interested in sport or music have long been well cared for in Christchurch, but those whose interest lay in writing had to be content with the occasional competition or workshop in addition to whatever time their teachers at school could give to the subject.

Schools, recognising that some pupils would benefit from more attention to the written part of the language curriculum than is readily available in most classrooms, have been quick to support the concept offered by the Christchurch School for Young Writers.

The Christchurch School for Young Writers does not offer recovery programmes for children who find writing difficult. On the other hand, it does not cater just for gifted children. All children are welcome who enjoy writing and are prepared to tackle the infinite challenges that the use of language can involve.

Where? When?
Classes are held at the Arts Centre on Saturday mornings and one afternoon during the week. We also run a correspondence programme for those who cannot attend weekly classes.

How much?
Fees vary according to the type of course and the period of enrolment. There are reductions for longer enrolment periods and subsidies are available to assist needy students.
Please contact the school for current rates.

Who's involved?
The Christchurch School for Young Writers is a legally incorporated society managed by a committee which is elected annually by members.
The committee appoints a director who is responsible for the day-to-day management of the school. Currently this is Dr Glyn Strange, a founder of the school in 1993.
Membership of the society is open to parents of all enrolled students and to anyone else who is sympathetic to the aims of the school and wishes to help continue the success of this unique educational initiative.

Students range from standard one to senior high school. They are tutored in small groups by trained teachers assisted by regular visits from local authors.

We offer a stimulating environment
Where:
Small classes facilitate student participation and individual response.
Tutors are all qualified and experienced teachers with special skills in the teaching of written language.
Programmes are responsive to students' needs.
Students make new friends who share their interest in writing.
Students learn how to start a piece of writing, shape it, polish it and share it with others.
We build confidence with different techniques and kinds of writing and help students develop good writing habits.
Participants meet writers and other people involved in publishing.

POET
crude ironmongers
shaping words like car parts
trying to rhyme
And still make sense
Skilled wordsmiths
Crafting sculptured pieces
Tempering and polishing
Cutting to perfection
Michael Davies

We also
Run writing workshops for children during most holidays.
Publish our own newspaper - write on - twice a year and actively seek ways to promote children's writing.
Offer advice to the parents of enthusiastic writers.
Collaborate with other organisations that are interested in fostering writing eg the Canterbury Public Library.
Assess manuscripts or samples of writing submitted by young writers who are non-members.
Run seminars for teachers.

For adults too
We now offer the same friendly and supportive expertise to adults who wish to learn more about the craft of writing.

For information contact the school
Christchurch School for Young Writers
PO Box 21-120
Christchurch
Phone/Fax: (03) 355-3588

Note: New enrolments are encouraged to send in a small sample of their work to assist us in assessing the appropriate level of participation.