Wokingham’s ‘Igniting Writing’ group inspires teenage creativity
Schoolchildren in Wokingham have been inspired to ignite their passion for storytelling in a weekly writing group.
Igniting Writing is a voluntary program run by Wokingham Library for young people in Years 6-13.
Their goal is to bring young writers together to develop their creative writing and make friends in a fun and relaxed group setting.
Throughout Covid, the group has embraced virtual meetings by having authors from across the UK give talks to guests. Their previous guest speakers have included Lisa Williamson, Temi Oh, Victoria Gemmell and Simon James Green.
READ MORE: Bracknell Canine Center torn apart by Storm Eunice
Igniting Writing volunteer and leader Alex Baker said: “Redoing the in-person sessions is great. The online sessions were always fun, but nothing can replace the buzz of talking one-on-one with young writers and hearing them share their stories.
“Writing is generally seen as a solitary activity and Igniting Writing tries to break that perception, making writing fun and collaborative and giving members the chance to make friends.
“Few teens will have tried something obscure like travel writing, so the Fiery Writing Sessions act as an introduction to a range of topics and genres that teens can explore further if interested. ”
Sessions are structured around a writing topic and after a brief introduction, volunteers set themselves a writing task. Members receive advice on how to structure stories, and meetings end with sharing what they wrote.
Many local school children attended the virtual sessions and now that the restrictions have been lifted, they are back every Saturday – except the second Saturday of the month.
This group also included a “Write with an Author” project, allowing teens to improve their writing skills and participate in fun activities.
Ruth, a pupil from St Crispin’s School, said: “The lightning-fast writing sessions helped inspire me and boost my confidence. After talking to a friend I made in the band, I started posting some of my writing online.
Nat, who attends St Bartholomew’s School, said: “Igniting Writing is definitely more relaxed than school. I like to let loose and write without restrictions and the band members are really open and accepting of all newcomers.
A first session for children in grades 6 to 8 runs from 9:45 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., while a later meeting for those in years 9 to 13 follows from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.