Creative Writing Workshops with Jan Henley

Creative Writing Workshops

Jan is taking some time out from regular term-time workshops with Northbrook College, the WEA and the University of Sussex to do some travelling, research and more writing. She will however, still be running some workshops – including a summer school at Missenden Abbey in August 2011, a writing course in Preston, also in 2011, a writing holiday in Spain in July 2011 and a course on writing women’s fiction at Sussex university in May 2011. She is also offering a 10 week once weekly workshop between March and June 2011 in Worthing (see below). For more details of these courses or other forthcoming events, please contact Jan by e-mail.

Details of courses in 2012 will be available soon. E-mail me if you would like your name added to my database for early information on courses. (We will be going to Spain again in July 2012!)

Some comments about the workshops…

‘Many thanks for a really great day!’

‘You encouraged everyone to get involved and comment with no fear of being put down.’

‘Jan is an exceptional teacher and seems to bring out the best in all of us.’

‘She makes me want to write.’

‘I enjoy every moment of your class.’

Heene Community Centre

10 week Creative Writing Workshop at the Heene Community Centre, Worthing, West Sussex: Tuesday afternoons 2-4 p.m. March 29th - May 31st 2011 (inc) (dates to be confirmed).

Group is maximum of 10. Cost £80 (£8 per session).

Each week we will be looking at a different aspect of creative writing. There will be an informative handout and ideas for writing during the week. We will be doing a writing exercise to get the creative juices flowing... And there will be time for reading your own work or hearing it read by one of the group to get constructive feedback from the rest of us. The course is open to all – regardless of your writing experience - and aims to address individual needs and requirements.

Writing Holiday

in the Sierra Almijara, Southern Spain

Dates: 12th July to 19th July 2011 and 19th July to 26th July 2011

7 days of writing-time and me-time
Guidance, advice and motivation from experienced creative writing tutor, mentor, and widely published author
Individual appraisal of work
Constructive group workshop sessions
Tranquil and beautiful surroundings
Small hotel in stunning location with patios, gardens and swimming pool
Large & comfortable, single occupancy rooms with ES facilities & air-con
Full board, tea and coffee provided
Al fresco lunches and dinners at the hotel and at local restaurants
Air conditioned work room
Internet access and use of PC
Minibus transfer from Malaga airport to the hotel
Help given with booking flights if desired

Feedback from previous writing holidays in Spain

From a Published Article by a 2010 participant:

Coming from someone who is notoriously fussy about hotel standards, it should come as a resounding endorsement that I booked my 2011 return before even leaving the Finca el Cerillo, following my attendance on Jan Henley’s writing course in July. Mum always warned me not to wish my life away whenever I seemed impatient for an event to occur. But that is exactly what I am in danger of doing until I re-visit this little piece of Andalucian paradise.

I could rhapsodise about the beauty of the location. I could drone on about the sublime culinary experience of almost every mealtime. And I could sing the praises of our very special hosts; owners Sue and Gordon, both of whom had the uncanny ability to make you feel that you were a friend rather than just a guest. As wonderful as all that was, the only reason 12 of us were thrown together under Jan Henley’s expert tutelage for the week was our common interest in writing, and how to do it. And that turned out to be the most memorable part of all.

As always, our wonderfully talented tutor went above and beyond the call of duty. She remained constantly on call to provide ongoing advice and encouragement, over and above the designated classes and ‘one on ones’. Her unrelenting energy and enthusiasm for her subject was a strong counter to any thoughts that any of us may have entertained to just switch off for the week, and enjoy the beauty of the location.

Writing courses invariably involve the coming together of a number of disparate (and desperate) individuals, offering a variety of talents and challenges. This was no exception. The imaginative and creative writing exercises which Jan prepared for the morning group sessions were not only enormous fun, but also successfully broadened our outlooks and our skills. The late afternoon gatherings followed individual writing time, and provided an invaluable opportunity to give and receive feedback on our own, and others’ work. This, along with Jan’s usual magic in getting groups to gel, ensured that genuine respect and friendship was nurtured amongst the entire group.

On a more personal level, I came away feeling more focused and energised that I had for a very long time. On that basis alone, it was money extremely well spent.

Richard Orridge

“The best group holiday I’ve ever been on. I enjoyed every moment.”

“I hadn’t written anything for months. During this week I started writing again. I was inspired. Thank you so much.”

“Money well spent, time well spent, much learnt and much enjoyed. Jan's creative writing course was just that... creative.”

“Brilliant.”

“Jan’s inspiring tutorship and her relentless enthusiasm and encouragement, combined with the support of fellow writers and the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings, created a truly invaluable and unforgettable retreat. Please may I come again?”

i

The Venue and Location

Finca el Cerrillo is a restored 200 year old farmhouse situated close to the traditional Andalucian villages of Canillas de Albaida and Competa, high in the foothills of the Sierra Almijara, Southern Spain. The Finca was a working olive mill until the mid 1960’s and has been carefully restored to preserve the charm and character of old Andalucia whilst providing the modern comforts of a small and charming hotel.

Circular walks from the hotel pass through shady olive groves, orchards and vineyards ending in whitewashed villages. And from its terraces there are magnificent views of the valley below and of the nearby national park. The Natural Park, with its wild flowers, forests of Corsican Pine and aromatic, shrub-covered hillsides has spectacular views of the mountains and the sea.

The Finca’s individually styled, spacious rooms have tea and coffee-making facilities and there are plenty of places inside and out to sit and write or just relax and enjoy the ambience. The terraced gardens with carob and palm trees surround both sunny and shaded patios, the Finca has its own olive grove, and the swimming pool and deck areas have stunning views - as you can see from the photos on the web site: www.hotelfinca.com which details the full range of facilities available. Food served at the Finca is freshly prepared and delicious with most of the produce bought locally from the two nearest villages. On warm evenings dinner is served on the candlelit terrace. The hotel is an hour’s drive from Malaga airport and provides a minibus for stress-free transfer.

The writing course

The course is ideal for those working on a writing project and needing some uninterrupted writing time in order to focus and get some editorial feedback, and also for writers who are looking for the motivation or ideas to begin a writing project.

The group will be a maximum of twelve and we will meet in the morning for writing motivation exercises designed not only to source new ideas but also to develop more depth in existing work. Every day there will be a particular theme and writing issue to focus on but participants are also invited to bring their own ‘writing problems’ to the table… Late afternoon we will meet to share work, get constructive feedback and discuss writing issues that have emerged during the day. The rest of the time will be free for individual writing and your tutor/ mentor will be available to read and appraise your work and discuss it with you individually during the week.

There will be a free day mid-week with an optional excursion.

What it will cost

The cost is £755 for single occupancy ES. Twin rooms ES at a reduced rate (£640) will be available (depending on demand); maybe there are 2 of you who would be happy to share. We will also welcome partners/ friends who are not participating in the writing course (fee for shared room w/out course is £530). Although it can be very warm in July, please note that the hotel bedrooms and work studio are fully air conditioned. A deposit of £150 will secure your place; balance is payable by 20th April 2011.

What it will include

7 nights at the hotel with buffet breakfast.
Lunch on 5 days.
3 course dinner every day – some at the Finca, some at local restaurants.
tea and coffee-making facilities in rooms
full use of all the facilities at the hotel (see website) including pool and library with PC and internet access; also free wi-fi access for laptops.
the writing course.
transfers to and from the hotel/ airport and to local restaurants.

The flight will be extra, but there are many bargain flights available to Malaga from the UK and we are happy to liaise with you to help you book one.

If you would like to register interest in this course, please contact Jan by e-mail at jan.henley1@gmail.com or phone 07950 560957

Courses at Missenden Abbey

Residential or non-residential available

The 5 "W"s. Your key to Writing Success . August 2011

Who..? Where..? When..? What if..? and Why..?
Is your story or novel answering all these questions? To find out how to do it and why it is so important to do it, come to this creative writing workshop and put your writing to the test.

The Venue
You can find out more about Missenden Abbey by going on to their web site: www.arca.uk.net/missendenabbey

All workshops to be led by Jan Henley.

Missenden Abbey provides a glorious setting. The Abbey is luxurious and there are lots of walks in the grounds and surrounding countryside. Students have the option of staying at the Abbey or attending workshops as a ‘day student’.

For more details and a brochure please contact Missenden Abbey. Tel: 01494 862904 or e mail: adultlearningchil@buckscc.gov.uk

Courses at Alston Hall, Preston.

Creative Writing For All: August 22nd – 25th 2011

In this friendly and informal workshop we will be combining group sessions with individual writing practice and 1 to 1 meetings with the tutor. We begin with idea-finding and motivational exercises designed to kick start the creative flow and go on to look at specific aspects of fiction writing such as plot, structure and narrative technique. Come along to be inspired...

The venue
Accommodation: Hand & Bath towels and soap are provided in each room along
with tea & coffee making facilities. Not all rooms are en-suite but public facilities are available on the same floor as the standard accommodation. A member of staff will be on duty throughout your stay.

Catering: With prior notification, we can cater for vegetarian, vegan, low
fat, medically recommended and religious restricted diets. Please inform
the college of any changes to your dietary requirements. We record your
dietary requirements on our database for future reference.
Transport & Travelling: If you are travelling by road there is a full map
on the reverse of the brochure.

Alston Hall is a friendly and inspirational setting for a creative writing course. It is situated in beautiful countryside. And the food is absolutely fabulous...

For more details contact the college Tel: 01772 784661
email alstonhall@ed.lancscc.gov.uk web www.alstonhall.com

Courses at Sussex University CCE

For up-to-date information see www.sussex.ac.uk/cce

Winchester Writers Conference

Many workshops and talks feature in this conference at the end of June. For more details e-mail Jan or contact the conference organisers on www.writersconference.co.uk Tel: 01962 827238.

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	*Creative Writing Workshops* Jan is taking some time out from regular term-time workshops with Northbrook College, the WEA and the University of Sussex to do some travelling, research and more writing. She will however, still be running some workshops – including a summer school at Missenden Abbey in August 2011, a writing course in Preston, also in 2011, a writing holiday in Spain in July 2011 and a course on writing women’s fiction at Sussex university in May 2011. She is also offering a 10 week once weekly workshop between March and June 2011 in Worthing (see below). For more details of these courses or other forthcoming events, please contact Jan by e-mail. Details of courses in 2012 will be available soon. E-mail me if you would like your name added to my database for early information on courses. (We will be going to Spain again in July 2012!) Some comments about the workshops… ‘Many thanks for a really great day!’ ‘You encouraged everyone to get involved and comment with no fear of being put down.’ ‘Jan is an exceptional teacher and seems to bring out the best in all of us.’ ‘She makes me want to write.’ ‘I enjoy every moment of your class.’ Heene Community Centre 10 week Creative Writing Workshop at the Heene Community Centre, Worthing, West Sussex: Tuesday afternoons 2-4 p.m. March 29th - May 31st 2011 (inc) (dates to be confirmed). Group is maximum of 10. Cost £80 (£8 per session). Each week we will be looking at a different aspect of creative writing. There will be an informative handout and ideas for writing during the week. We will be doing a writing exercise to get the creative juices flowing... And there will be time for reading your own work or hearing it read by one of the group to get constructive feedback from the rest of us. The course is open to all – regardless of your writing experience - and aims to address individual needs and requirements. *Writing Holiday* in the Sierra Almijara, Southern Spain Dates: 12th July to 19th July 2011 and 19th July to 26th July 2011 7 days of writing-time and me-time Guidance, advice and motivation from experienced creative writing tutor, mentor, and widely published author Individual appraisal of work Constructive group workshop sessions Tranquil and beautiful surroundings Small hotel in stunning location with patios, gardens and swimming pool Large & comfortable, single occupancy rooms with ES facilities & air-con Full board, tea and coffee provided Al fresco lunches and dinners at the hotel and at local restaurants Air conditioned work room Internet access and use of PC Minibus transfer from Malaga airport to the hotel Help given with booking flights if desired Feedback from previous writing holidays in Spain From a Published Article by a 2010 participant: Coming from someone who is notoriously fussy about hotel standards, it should come as a resounding endorsement that I booked my 2011 return before even leaving the Finca el Cerillo, following my attendance on Jan Henley’s writing course in July. Mum always warned me not to wish my life away whenever I seemed impatient for an event to occur. But that is exactly what I am in danger of doing until I re-visit this little piece of Andalucian paradise. I could rhapsodise about the beauty of the location. I could drone on about the sublime culinary experience of almost every mealtime. And I could sing the praises of our very special hosts; owners Sue and Gordon, both of whom had the uncanny ability to make you feel that you were a friend rather than just a guest. As wonderful as all that was, the only reason 12 of us were thrown together under Jan Henley’s expert tutelage for the week was our common interest in writing, and how to do it. And that turned out to be the most memorable part of all. As always, our wonderfully talented tutor went above and beyond the call of duty. She remained constantly on call to provide ongoing advice and encouragement, over and above the designated classes and ‘one on ones’. Her unrelenting energy and enthusiasm for her subject was a strong counter to any thoughts that any of us may have entertained to just switch off for the week, and enjoy the beauty of the location. Writing courses invariably involve the coming together of a number of disparate (and desperate) individuals, offering a variety of talents and challenges. This was no exception. The imaginative and creative writing exercises which Jan prepared for the morning group sessions were not only enormous fun, but also successfully broadened our outlooks and our skills. The late afternoon gatherings followed individual writing time, and provided an invaluable opportunity to give and receive feedback on our own, and others’ work. This, along with Jan’s usual magic in getting groups to gel, ensured that genuine respect and friendship was nurtured amongst the entire group. On a more personal level, I came away feeling more focused and energised that I had for a very long time. On that basis alone, it was money extremely well spent. Richard Orridge “The best group holiday I’ve ever been on. I enjoyed every moment.” “I hadn’t written anything for months. During this week I started writing again. I was inspired. Thank you so much.” “Money well spent, time well spent, much learnt and much enjoyed. Jan's creative writing course was just that... creative.” “Brilliant.” “Jan’s inspiring tutorship and her relentless enthusiasm and encouragement, combined with the support of fellow writers and the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings, created a truly invaluable and unforgettable retreat. Please may I come again?” i The Venue and Location Finca el Cerrillo is a restored 200 year old farmhouse situated close to the traditional Andalucian villages of Canillas de Albaida and Competa, high in the foothills of the Sierra Almijara, Southern Spain. The Finca was a working olive mill until the mid 1960’s and has been carefully restored to preserve the charm and character of old Andalucia whilst providing the modern comforts of a small and charming hotel. Circular walks from the hotel pass through shady olive groves, orchards and vineyards ending in whitewashed villages. And from its terraces there are magnificent views of the valley below and of the nearby national park. The Natural Park, with its wild flowers, forests of Corsican Pine and aromatic, shrub-covered hillsides has spectacular views of the mountains and the sea. The Finca’s individually styled, spacious rooms have tea and coffee-making facilities and there are plenty of places inside and out to sit and write or just relax and enjoy the ambience. The terraced gardens with carob and palm trees surround both sunny and shaded patios, the Finca has its own olive grove, and the swimming pool and deck areas have stunning views - as you can see from the photos on the web site: www.hotelfinca.com which details the full range of facilities available. Food served at the Finca is freshly prepared and delicious with most of the produce bought locally from the two nearest villages. On warm evenings dinner is served on the candlelit terrace. The hotel is an hour’s drive from Malaga airport and provides a minibus for stress-free transfer. The writing course The course is ideal for those working on a writing project and needing some uninterrupted writing time in order to focus and get some editorial feedback, and also for writers who are looking for the motivation or ideas to begin a writing project. The group will be a maximum of twelve and we will meet in the morning for writing motivation exercises designed not only to source new ideas but also to develop more depth in existing work. Every day there will be a particular theme and writing issue to focus on but participants are also invited to bring their own ‘writing problems’ to the table… Late afternoon we will meet to share work, get constructive feedback and discuss writing issues that have emerged during the day. The rest of the time will be free for individual writing and your tutor/ mentor will be available to read and appraise your work and discuss it with you individually during the week. There will be a free day mid-week with an optional excursion. What it will cost The cost is £755 for single occupancy ES. Twin rooms ES at a reduced rate (£640) will be available (depending on demand); maybe there are 2 of you who would be happy to share. We will also welcome partners/ friends who are not participating in the writing course (fee for shared room w/out course is £530). Although it can be very warm in July, please note that the hotel bedrooms and work studio are fully air conditioned. A deposit of £150 will secure your place; balance is payable by 20th April 2011. What it will include 7 nights at the hotel with buffet breakfast. Lunch on 5 days. 3 course dinner every day – some at the Finca, some at local restaurants. tea and coffee-making facilities in rooms full use of all the facilities at the hotel (see website) including pool and library with PC and internet access; also free wi-fi access for laptops. the writing course. transfers to and from the hotel/ airport and to local restaurants. The flight will be extra, but there are many bargain flights available to Malaga from the UK and we are happy to liaise with you to help you book one. If you would like to register interest in this course, please contact Jan by e-mail at jan.henley1@gmail.com or phone 07950 560957 Courses at Missenden Abbey Residential or non-residential available The 5 "W"s. Your key to Writing Success . August 2011 Who..? Where..? When..? What if..? and Why..? Is your story or novel answering all these questions? To find out how to do it and why it is so important to do it, come to this creative writing workshop and put your writing to the test. The Venue You can find out more about Missenden Abbey by going on to their web site: www.arca.uk.net/missendenabbey All workshops to be led by Jan Henley. Missenden Abbey provides a glorious setting. The Abbey is luxurious and there are lots of walks in the grounds and surrounding countryside. Students have the option of staying at the Abbey or attending workshops as a ‘day student’. For more details and a brochure please contact Missenden Abbey. Tel: 01494 862904 or e mail: adultlearningchil@buckscc.gov.uk Courses at Alston Hall, Preston. Creative Writing For All: August 22nd – 25th 2011 In this friendly and informal workshop we will be combining group sessions with individual writing practice and 1 to 1 meetings with the tutor. We begin with idea-finding and motivational exercises designed to kick start the creative flow and go on to look at specific aspects of fiction writing such as plot, structure and narrative technique. Come along to be inspired... The venue Accommodation: Hand & Bath towels and soap are provided in each room along with tea & coffee making facilities. Not all rooms are en-suite but public facilities are available on the same floor as the standard accommodation. A member of staff will be on duty throughout your stay. Catering: With prior notification, we can cater for vegetarian, vegan, low fat, medically recommended and religious restricted diets. Please inform the college of any changes to your dietary requirements. We record your dietary requirements on our database for future reference. Transport & Travelling: If you are travelling by road there is a full map on the reverse of the brochure. Alston Hall is a friendly and inspirational setting for a creative writing course. It is situated in beautiful countryside. And the food is absolutely fabulous... For more details contact the college Tel: 01772 784661 email alstonhall@ed.lancscc.gov.uk web www.alstonhall.com Courses at Sussex University CCE For up-to-date information see www.sussex.ac.uk/cce Winchester Writers Conference Many workshops and talks feature in this conference at the end of June. For more details e-mail Jan or contact the conference organisers on www.writersconference.co.uk Tel: 01962 827238. Top of Page