Beginners Poetry workshops
In-person 20-week course in Brighton.
Our beginners course offers an opportunity to find out more about poetry, and discover the key elements of a poem together with the different forms.
Over the course of the 20 weeks, you will experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside your fellow emerging poets. The weekly practical exercises will teach you to write in a variety of styles and forms. In the group discussions, you will examine the work of published poets and explore different styles and techniques.
By the end of the 20 weeks, you will have a greater understanding of poetry; be able to draft and edit poems including experimental poetic forms; create original imagery; and edit your own work.
Overview
The course is delivered through weekly seminars which run for 2.5 hours. Your classes will take place on Tuesday evenings in the Friends Meeting House in Brighton and are run by Roy Mcfarlane.
There will be opportunities for poets to present work, ideas and practical exercises and to suggest topics for discussion, should they so wish. Between meetings, you will be able to share work and raise questions around writing technique with other writers in the group through the interactive webpage for the course.
What is required of me?
You will need to have access to a computer with email and an internet connection as the programme uses an online learning site to allow students to keep in touch outside of the taught sessions.
You will be expected to devote time outside of the taught sessions, reading poetry and writing your own work.
"This was a superb, well-crafted review of a wide range of modern poetry. I enjoyed a terrific learning experience which has enriched my own writing."
David Bleiman
Key Information
Programme Length: 20 weeks from October 2025
Maximum group size 15
Term Dates (10 weeks per term)
Autumn: 6th October – 12th December
Spring: 5th January – 13th March
Day and Time
20-week course, Tuesdays 6.30-9pm
Location
Friends Meeting House, Ship Street, Brighton BN1 1AF
Entry requirements
No formal qualifications required just an interest in finding out more about poetry
Programme team:
Cathy Hayward (programme director) and Roy Mcfarlane (tutor)
Fee
20 week course in-person: £625 + VAT (Total £750)
Enrolment
To enrol, click on the link below
20 week course in-person
Tuesdays 6.30-9pm
To discuss your payment options, email Cathy Hayward