Beginning to Write Fiction: A New Course from Dialect
with Dr Melanie Golding
For those looking to take their first steps into fiction writing, we’re offering a new in-person course this autumn at Dialect: Beginning to Write Fiction. The course is designed for writers who are just starting out or returning to fiction after a break. It will introduce key skills and offer a structured, supportive environment to begin or develop a piece of writing.
Course details:
Tutor: Dr Melanie Golding, author and lecturer on the MA in Creative Writing at Bath Spa University
Structure: Five in-person sessions over ten weeks
Dates: Fridays on 12 and 26 September, 10 and 24 October, and 7 November 2025
Time: 10:00 to 12:30
Location: The Exchange, Stroud, GL5 1DF
Cost: £150 (or £125 with concession). Note that you can currently pay in three instalments using Klarna at the checkout on our website.
The course will focus on practical aspects of fiction writing including openings, voice, character, pace, prose style, and how to bring a piece to completion. Sessions will include guided exercises, opportunities to share your work, and supportive peer feedback. The final session will cover next steps such as submitting to publishers and agents.
Who this course is for
Writers who are new to fiction or unsure where to begin
Those who have started a story or novel but need help shaping or completing it
Anyone seeking a small group environment with regular writing practice and tutor guidance
About the Tutor
Dr Melanie Golding is the author of three novels published by HarperCollins and is an experienced university lecturer in creative writing. Many of you may already know Mel not just for her brilliant writing but her work as a choir leader and founder of Playcircle, the music and story telling sessions for babies and toddlers. Her approach is practical and encouraging, with a focus on developing confidence and skill over time.
How to register
Enrolment is open now via the Dialect website. Click the button below to find out more and register.
Bonus prompt!
To get a sense of the kind of work you might do on the course, we thought you might enjoy trying out this prompt:
Think of a moment when someone said something that stayed with you longer than it should have. Write the scene as it happened, without explanation or backstory, focusing on mood and tone.
This exercise is a simple but effective way to begin putting words on the page. Good luck!
Dialect’s courses aim to provide serious, supportive space for writers outside of major cities. Beginning to Write Fiction continues that mission, offering tools and encouragement to help you begin - and keep going.
For more information about everything we do, visit dialect.org.uk
Find our more about our brilliant tutor Melanie Golding here: www.melaniegolding.com
