Writer planning novel with notebook and pen on wooden desk

Introduction to Novel Writing Workshop


Improve your work skills by learning the techniques of writing a novel through our writing short courses online and in Sydney.

This introductory workshop is designed to get you started on your novel-writing journey with information and strategies to help you achieve your writing goals. Gain foundational knowledge of the art and craft of novel writing including idea development, character creation, and story structure. Short excerpts and writing exercises will help solidify your understanding and allow you to practice in real time. You’ll also walk away with tips to maintain your writing discipline long-term.

Course Outline

  • Developing Your Idea & World Building: From premise to synopsis, explore genre conventions, begin your draft, and build immersive settings.
  • Creating Compelling Characters: Learn character development techniques, build internal/external conflict, and explore dialogue and point of view.
  • Story Structure Fundamentals: Understand narrative arcs, structure your novel for impact, and learn how to maintain narrative momentum.
  • Writing Practice Tools: Set and maintain writing goals, get introduced to practical tools, and discover useful resources to support your creativity.

Schedule & Pricing

  • Saturday 29 Nov 2025, 1:00pm–4:00pm
  • Saturday 2 May 2026, 1:00pm–4:00pm
  • Price: $99 per session
  • Location: 2A Gordon Street, Rozelle NSW 2039

Details
3 hours

You will learn

  • Develop concepts and understand world-building techniques
  • Create compelling characters with depth and conflict
  • Apply key elements of story structure to your novel

You will get

  • Expert instruction and writing exercises
  • Tips and strategies to maintain writing goals
  • Recommended writing tools and resources

Appropriate for

Aspiring and emerging writers, well-read beginners, and anyone interested in how to write a novel.


Preparation

What to bring

  • Notebook and pen for note-taking
  • Any draft or notes you've started
  • Enthusiasm and creative ideas

What to wear


Your Teacher
Sydney Community College

Sydney Community College

38 reviews

Sydney Community College is a registered charity with a voluntary Board of Directors

The College has a mission to offer innovative continuing adult education and training programmes that support individual efforts and facilitate sustainable social change.

We do this by:

  • Providing quality continuing adult education opportunities for people to build practical and theoretical skills and develop knowledge;
  • Leveraging from and developing community capacity and inclusivity;
  • Developing innovative affordable and accessible skills training programmes;
  • Partnering with like organisations to deliver learning opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities;
  • Partnering with all levels of government to deliver education policy objectives.

Terms

Cancellations & Refunds

If the organiser cancels the class:

You are entitled to a full refund.

If you can't attend the class:

You’re welcome to send someone in your place.

OR

  • A refund can be requested 10 days before class starts. An admin fee of AU$45.00 applies.

Terms & Conditions

At Sydney Community College, we know that plans can change unexpectedly. Whether it’s a shift in your schedule, a family emergency, or just a change of heart, we want to support you in the fairest way possible.  

At the same time, we’re a not-for-profit organisation that commits resources to running each class—so last-minute cancellations can significantly impact our ability to offer quality, affordable programs.

That’s why we’ve created a simple, transparent policy that balances your need for flexibility with our need to plan and deliver courses sustainably.  Our cancellation policy offers two clear options, depending on when you notify us:

Cancel More Than 10 Days Before the Course Starts – You can choose to receive a full refund, minus a $45 administration fee OR a non-refundable credit note valid for 12 months for the full value you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College. 

 Option 2: Cancel Within 10 Days of the Course Starting - You’ll receive a credit note valid for 12 months for 50% of the course fee you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College. 

Please note that both refund and credit options are only available before the course begins. Once the course has started—or if you decide to withdraw after it has commenced—no refunds or credits can be issued.  If you need to cancel your enrolment, just email us and we’ll take care of it based on the timelines above.

Have more questions about this class?

Tags:

Your Next Adventure Starts Here

Join thousands of learners exploring new skills and passions. Whether online or in person, our classes are designed to inspire, connect, and bring joy to learning. Start your journey today!

Explore classes
Your Next Adventure Starts Here