Learn the skills of writing horror stories for books, movies, and television with our writing short courses online and in Sydney. Discover proven techniques to write compelling scary stories and scripts that push the boundaries of the horror genre. From supernatural to psychological horror, this course teaches you how to build atmosphere, manipulate expectations, and craft engaging narratives that captivate your readers or viewers.
You'll explore character archetypes, structure, suspense, and pacing while experimenting with different horror subgenres. Through videos, exercises, excerpts, and guided discussions, you'll hone your ability to create original and spine-chilling tales.
Course Outline
- Learn to write for film, television, and books using various techniques.
- Class sessions include script excerpts, workshopping, videos, and lectures.
- Develop tension, fear, and surprise using proven narrative devices specific to horror writing.
Course Materials
- Practical handbooks developed by Tim Ferguson to guide your horror-writing journey.
Schedule & Pricing
- Upcoming sessions: Mar 26–Apr 2, 2026; Oct 1–Oct 8, 2026
- Time: 6:00 pm–8:00 pm (Australia/Sydney)
- Delivery: Online via Zoom
- Fee: $199
Details
You will learn
- Develop practical horror writing techniques for stories and scripts
- Master suspense and tension to provoke emotional responses
- Experiment with horror subgenres to craft original narratives
You will get
- Access to handbooks developed by Tim Ferguson
- Exposure to film, TV, and book-specific writing tools
- Supportive peer workshop and expert-led feedback
Appropriate for
Creative writers, authors, screenwriters aged 18+ interested in the horror genre.
Preparation
What to bring
- Notebook or device for writing
- Internet connection and Zoom access
- Creative ideas for horror stories
What to wear
Your Teacher
Sydney Community College
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.
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:
How to Write Horror
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