Applications are now open for our acclaimed year-long novel development programme

For over two decades, The Novel Studio has guided aspiring novelists through the journey from initial concept to professional submission package. We’re delighted to announce that for the 2025-26 academic year, The Novel Studio will be available in two formats: our fully online option and a return to in-person at our central London campus.

Same Expert Guidance, Two Ways to Experience It

Whether you choose to join us in London or connect from anywhere in the world, you’ll receive the same comprehensive curriculum, expert instruction, and professional development opportunities that have helped our alumni secure major publishing deals and literary recognition.

‘We’ve designed both delivery options to provide choice for our prospective students,’ says Emily Pedder, Course Director of The Novel Studio. ‘Our commitment to nurturing each writer’s unique voice and providing personalised feedback remains at the heart of everything we do.’

The Novel Studio Experience

Over 30 intensive weeks (two evening sessions per week), you’ll progress through a carefully structured programme:

Term One: Foundations

  • Develop your novel concept through guided research and exploration
  • Study novel structures across genres
  • Position your work within the current literary market

Term Two: Craft Development

  • Participate in structured workshop sessions with detailed feedback
  • Master essential craft elements including character, voice, and dialogue
  • Develop pacing and narrative drive

Term Three: Industry Focus

  • Connect with agents, authors, and editors
  • Prepare a professional submission package
  • Participate in our industry showcase

Both delivery options include one-to-one tutorials with each tutor every term, ensuring personalised guidance throughout your journey.

Two Pathways, One Community

London Studio Experience

  • Face-to-face workshops in our central London location
  • Direct networking opportunities with peers and industry professionals
  • Immersive writing community experience
  • Access to London literary events

Online Studio Experience

  • Live virtual workshops with the same expert tutors
  • Digital resource access
  • Vibrant online writing community
  • Virtual networking events
  • Identical feedback structure and professional development opportunities

‘I benefited enormously from being able to develop my novel in an environment that was both demanding and supportive, and my writing improved considerably over the course. The tutorial guidance is excellent and sensitively applied. The standard of students is very high, and one of the best benefits was forming a long-term relationship (and friendship) with such talented fellow-writers,” says Penny Rudge whose debut novel Foolish Lessons in Life and Love was published by Little Brown.

Expert Tuition from Published Authors

All Novel Studio workshops are taught by either Dr Rebekah Lattin-Rawstrone or Dr Kiare Ladner – both published authors and industry professionals who bring decades of writing and teaching experience to the programme. The same tutors teach both our in-person and online sessions, ensuring consistent quality across both delivery options.

Dr Rebekah Lattin-Rawstrone

Dr Kiare Ladner

Our tutors provide not only craft expertise and encouragement but also current industry insights, helping you navigate the publishing landscape with confidence.

Industry Connections

All Novel Studio participants benefit from our established industry connections:

  • Industry Showcase: Present your work to agents at our end-of-year event
  • Anthology Publication: Your work will be professionally edited in an anthology sent to all UK-based literary agents
  • Agent Access: All applications are automatically considered for the Novel Studio Competition, with the top three manuscripts reviewed by Lucy Luck, literary agent at C&W Agency

Join Our Community of Published Writers

The Novel Studio has an impressive track record of alumni success across all genres – from literary fiction to crime, historical to fantasy, and everything in between. Our graduates have secured major publishing deals, been shortlisted for prestigious awards, and established successful writing careers.

Will your novel be next?

Applications Now Open

How to Apply: Email shortcourses@city.ac.uk with a 2000-word sample of your original fiction and a CV which details any writing experience you may have.

Application Deadline: 30 May 2025

Scholarship Opportunity: The Captain Tasos Politis Scholarship provides full funding for a talented writer from a low-income household. Please indicate on your application if you wish to be considered.

Open Information Session

We will be running a virtual information session on 30 April from 5.30-6.15pm. Sign up HERE.

 

We look forward to receiving your applications!