Short Course: Queer Fiction and Non-Fiction

Queer writing is in its early days. Silenced for centuries, we are still carving out a space for queer stories today, and the possibilities of what can yet be written are limitless. In this course, writer and editor Nathan Evans and award-winning author Santanu Bhattacharya will guide you through using lived experience as a catalyst to queer storytelling, creating and developing characters, nurturing your unique voice, and changemaking by engaging a queer and non-queer audience.

Through a series of workshops that draw inspiration from queer peers and forebears, you will be equipped with a toolkit to craft your narrative and build a sustained writing practice. Workshops will focus on subjects ranging from the micro—such as the body and intimacy, relationships and family—to the macro—such as politics and culture, travel and nature. You will also be invited to engage in discussions around important subjects such as authenticity and research.

This course is for those who self-identify as queer and/or those who are telling queer stories, whether you’re an experienced writer, or seeking to get started on your creative adventure.

*Please use the expandable links below to reveal timings and further details of the course schedule.

Single room: £640

Concessions: £448

As part of our effort to increase participation in the arts, we offer limited concessionary places at a 30% reduction. You can select this option at checkout if available.

Physical Access at The Hurst:

The Hurst is the only house that is fully accessible to wheelchair users. There is access to every room via a lift. All communal spaces, including workshop spaces, have level access. There are no steps on the ground floor. All door frames measure the required 825mm, although the fire doors installed reduce this width slightly. All door handles are at an accessible height, with power sockets located at 500mm from the floor. There is an accessible toilet on the ground floor.

For additional detailed information on physical access in bedrooms, kitchen, shared spaces and the grounds please visit our dedicated access page.

Please see our access page for general access information for residential courses.

Our grants scheme may be able to cover a portion of your course fees. Disability costs and additional living/support costs are taken into account when considering your grant application. You may also be entitled to concession pricing on selected courses.

If you have any questions or concerns and want to chat to a member of staff prior to booking please contact us on access@arvon.org

The Hurst is a place you can write, far away from daily distractions. The house and gardens, surrounded by the forest-covered Shropshire Hills, were the former home of playwright John Osborne.

The 19th century building has been given a thoroughly 21st century renovation. All 16 bedrooms have a single bed, en-suite bathroom and are lift accessible. There’s plenty of space to relax and write throughout the house, including the main workshop room with a library.

All your meals are provided, locally and sustainably sourced wherever possible. Help yourself to breakfast, our team will prepare lunch, and dinner is prepared in groups each evening using the delicious recipes and ingredients provided.

The grounds boast redwoods, wild orchids, surrounded by the forest-covered Shropshire Hills, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The house sits within 26 acres of woodland, with a spring-fed lake and inspiring walks.

See here for more information on The Hurst.