For fantasy, it might be another Narnia, Middle-earth or Earthsea. Science-fiction could be visiting planets like Tatooine, Ringworld or Gallifrey. What could be more enjoyable than inventing an imaginary land? You make the rules. But it is easy to get overwhelmed. World building can be a daunting feat of the imagination. There are pitfalls to avoid, such as info-dumping and inconsistency. At the same time, there are tools and tips that make the job easier.

This course offers a guided step-by-step structure to designing your own imaginary land. You will cover the world building basics with time set aside for writing a guided story set in your world. Whether you write for a hobby or aim to be published, this course will help, with resources and information about the creative writing industry shared. By the end of the course, you will have the beginnings of your own imaginary world and a short story set there. You will build skills and knowledge about the creative writing industry. You’ll join in brainstorms, do group work and pair-work practice, complete world building templates, and have time to write your own short story.

Please note that you must book the accommodation element along with the course to use this for your DofE Gold Residential. You will need to provide your own meals.