what students are saying
Join our comprehensive Novel Writing Course online via Zoom, designed to equip aspiring authors with fundamental techniques for crafting engaging fiction. Guided by an experienced, published author, you’ll learn how to develop compelling characters, structure narratives, and understand the publishing pipeline.
Participants will explore character development, plotting techniques, pacing, dialogue, and scene construction. You'll also gain valuable insights into the publishing industry—learning how to write a synopsis, draft submissions, and prepare for publication.
This interactive live course is ideal for both beginners and those with prior writing experience who are seeking practical tools and feedback to refine their manuscripts.
Course Outline
- Week 1: Character: Build complex heroes, villains, and character dynamics.
- Week 2: Structure, Plot & Hooks: Outline structure and maintain reader interest.
- Week 3: Scene & Sequel: Create tension, movement, and emotional depth.
- Week 4: POV, Dialogue & Setting: Use literary techniques to enhance realism and tone.
- Week 5: Revision & Editing: Strengthen narrative cohesion and polish the work.
- Week 6: Synopses & Submissions: Prepare professional submissions to editors and agents.
Schedule & Delivery
- Start Date: 27 October 2025
- End Date: 1 December 2025
- Sessions: Mondays, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
- Delivery: Online via Zoom
Note: This version of the course is adapted for online delivery with focused content tailored for small-group learning.
You will learn
- Develop compelling characters and story structures
- Use dialogue, setting, and point of view effectively
- Understand the novel publishing process from draft to submission
You will get
- Live feedback from a published author
- Comprehensive week-by-week course materials
- Insights into industry-standard submissions
Appropriate for
Beginners and intermediate writers seeking structured guidance and insight into novel writing and publication.
What to bring
- Notebook with removable pages
- Pen or pencil
- Laptop or tablet (optional)
What to wear
Sydney Community College
38 reviewsSydney 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.
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:
Creative Writing: Novel Writing
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