There’s something magical about words. A simple sentence can spark laughter, stir emotions, or transport you to a world you’ve never known before. At Mayflower, we believe that everyone has a story worth telling, and our creative writing programmes are designed to help people of all ages discover and develop their unique voices.
At Mayflower, we’re offering an inspiring range of workshops for young people, teenagers and adults. Whether you’re penning your very first story or exploring the craft of playwriting, there’s a welcoming space for you here.
Why creative writing matters
Writing is more than just putting words on a page. It’s a way to connect, to question, and to imagine. For young people especially, writing can build confidence, improve communication skills, and provide a safe outlet for self-expression. For adults, creative writing offers a chance to slow down, reflect, and tap into creativity that daily life often pushes aside.
At Mayflower, we bring people together through shared experiences of theatre, dance and music – and writing is another way of participating in the arts. It allows you to step into different perspectives, experiment with ideas, and even see your words come alive on stage.
For budding storytellers: Mayflower Junior Writers
Our Mayflower Junior Writers sessions for academic years 3 to 6, are specially created for children who love to play with words. Aimed at younger participants, these workshops provide a fun and relaxed environment where imagination leads the way.
Each session is packed with games and activities designed to help children create characters, invent worlds and experiment with poetry, stories and scripts. It’s less about spelling and grammar, and more about discovering the joy of storytelling. By the end, children often surprise themselves with the imaginative journeys their writing takes them on.
Parents often tell us how much these sessions boost their child’s confidence. Writing becomes less of a school subject and more of a playful adventure. For many, it’s the beginning of a lifelong love of creativity.
Stepping up: Mayflower Young Writers
As children grow older, their stories grow with them. Our Mayflower Young Writers programme is designed for those in acaemic years 7 to 9 who want to take their writing a little further.
These Saturday morning sessions are all about building skills while keeping creativity at the centre. Participants explore different genres – from fantasy and adventure to drama and poetry – and learn techniques for developing characters, dialogue and plot. Working alongside professional writers and facilitators, young people are encouraged to experiment and to find the styles that excite them most.
It’s also a chance to meet like-minded peers. Many of our Young Writers form lasting friendships, connected by a shared enthusiasm for storytelling. Together, they celebrate successes, tackle challenges, and discover just how powerful their words can be.
Finding a creative voice: Mayflower Creative Writers
For teenagers, writing often becomes a vital form of self-expression. Our Mayflower Creative Writers programme, running on Tuesday evenings, offers a supportive space for young people in academic years 10 to 13 to refine their craft.
Here, the focus moves to developing a writer’s voice and exploring storytelling at a deeper level. Participants work on short stories, poetry and scripts, and learn techniques that help bring their ideas to life. They also gain insights into the writing process from professional artists who share their own experiences.
One of the most exciting aspects of Creative Writers is the opportunity to share work in performance at the theatre. Hearing your words spoken aloud, and seeing how they resonate with others, is a powerful experience. It’s a reminder that writing doesn’t have to remain private – it can inspire, challenge and move an audience.
For those considering a future in the creative industries, this programme is also a stepping stone. It develops valuable skills in communication, collaboration and presentation that extend far beyond the page.
A place for adults: Writing for Page and Stage
Creative writing isn’t just for young people – it’s for anyone who wants to explore ideas, reflect on life, or simply enjoy the act of creating. That’s why we run Writing for Page and Stage, an online programme open to adults aged 18 and over.
These relaxed, interactive sessions are designed for beginners as well as those who already enjoy writing. Participants can try their hand at poetry, short stories, scripts and other forms, guided by professional facilitators who provide both structure and encouragement.
Because the sessions take place online, they’re accessible wherever you are, and they fit easily around work and family commitments. The emphasis is on enjoyment, experimentation and community. Many participants say they find the workshops a refreshing break from routine – a chance to recharge creatively and connect with others.
For some, Writing for Page and Stage has been the starting point for new projects, performances and even published work. For others, it’s simply a space to explore creativity without pressure. Either way, it’s a reminder that writing is for everyone, no matter your age or experience.
Creating a community of writers
Across all of our programmes, what stands out most is the sense of community. Writing can sometimes feel solitary, but at Mayflower it becomes a shared journey. Participants encourage one another, exchange ideas, and celebrate each other’s successes.
For younger writers, this builds confidence and helps them feel part of something bigger. For adults, it offers companionship and inspiration. In every group, we see the joy of discovery as stories unfold and voices grow stronger.
Mayflower Creative Writers
