Creative Writing Courses and Workshops
Helen Cullen is an experienced creative writing teacher who has worked with writers at all levels - from those who are writing for the very first time to already published authors. She also is a Reader in Creative Writing at Brunel University. Her ambition always is to help each individual to improve their skills, grow in confidence and unlock their potential in a supportive, inspiring environment. To learn more about the experience and education Helen draws upon, you can read more about her here.
Testimonials from past students:
“Helen draws on a wealth of knowledge and experience to impart amazing writing advice with such generosity.”
“This course was transformative - both in terms of my writing ability and personal confidence.”
“It was an amazing experience seeing everyone’s work evolve in such positive ways. Helen is fantastic at managing the workshop so everyone gets the most out of it. She meets you where you are and helps you take whatever next steps are right for you.”
“I loved the class structure. The mix of discussion, writing, and group input made the learning a pleasure while the exercises and notes tied everything together. It was a wonderful way to build confidence and made me feel all things are possible.”
“Learnt a lot and enjoyed sharing the experience in person with others and I really benefited from Helen’s encouragement.”
“I thought all the sessions were excellent. All the information provided was extremely useful and I felt Helen had thought deeply about the process of writing and communicated that clearly and logically to us.”
Please see below for upcoming courses.
If you would like to hear about other courses as they are announced please register here.
Have you always dreamed of writing a novel but don’t know how to start?
Or perhaps you have begun one – even finished one – but feel a bit stuck, or that you aren’t fulfilling its potential?
If so, this masterclass is for you.
Published novelist, experienced creative writing teacher and industry expert, Helen Cullen will break down the core elements of fiction writing and show you how they work together to form a novel. Through teaching and practical exercises, the day will include lessons on:
How to write compelling characters that drive your narrative forward.
Writing dynamic dialogue.
Plot and structure.
Creating strong settings.
Finding your voice.
Editing and drafting.
The ultimate goals of this masterclass are to:
Demystify the novel writing process.
Increase your understanding of creative writing fundamentals.
Arm you with practical advice for enhancing your skills.
Build your confidence so that you can finish your novel.
There will be no expectation to share your work-in-progress but, with a limited number of participants, plenty of time to answer any questions you may have. Please note, however, the masterclass timings do not allow for feedback on manuscripts.
The cost also includes refreshments upon arrival and a light lunch.
This one-day masterclass will kickstart or reinvigorate your novel in an inspiring and supportive class that is suitable for writers at all levels.
Date: Saturday 5th September 2026
Time: 10am-5pm
Venue: The Arc, Jewry St, Winchester SO23 8SB.
Note on Course Fees:
All course fees are inclusive of VAT.
Once booked, the fees paid are non-refundable. If however you are no longer able to attend, please email and if there is someone on the waiting list who can take your spot a refund will be processed.
One place is reserved for someone from a low income household who does not have the financial means to attend. Please email if you would like to avail of this and the place will be offered on a first come first served basis - you will not be required to share any private financial information as the place is offered on trust.
If you have any questions please email hello@helencullen.ie
This masterclass offers aspiring authors advice on how to approach getting a literary agent. Most publishers do not accept manuscripts directly from writers, so if you would like to publish your book, this is the first step.
Published novelist and publishing industry expert, Helen Cullen, will offer advice and insights on how to find and submit your work to literary agents. The class will cover everything you need to know about the path to publication with plenty of practical advice and guidance.
Topics covered will include:
The role of the literary agent – how do they work with authors and publishers?
Researching literary agents – who is right for you?
How to submit your work to agents
Writing cover letters and a synopsis
Advice what to do and what not to do.
Date: Saturday 17th October 2026
Time: 10am-12pm
Venue: The Arc, Jewry St, Winchester SO23 8SB.
Note on Course Fees:
All course fees are inclusive of VAT.
Once booked, the fees paid are non-refundable. If however you are no longer able to attend, please email and if there is someone on the waiting list who can take your spot a refund will be processed.
One place is reserved for someone from a low income household who does not have the financial means to attend. Please email if you would like to avail of this and the place will be offered on a first come first served basis - you will not be required to share any private financial information as the place is offered on trust.
If you have any questions please email hello@helencullen.ie