What past students say about ...
- Creative writing - Stage 1
- Creative writing - Stage 2
- Writing books for children and young adults
- Script writing for short films
- Marketing your book
- Perfecting your pitch
- Crime writing workshop
- Life writing
- Feature writing - Stage 1
- Feature writing - Stage 2
- Successful freelancing seminar
- Self-publishing - How to do it
- Travel writing
- How to get your book published
- Media releases that get results
- Editing essentials
- Grammar and punctuation essentials
- Professional business writing
- Blogging for business
- Writing for the web
- ONLINE Feature writing for magazines and newspapers
- ONLINE Creative writing stage 1
- ONLINE Writing books for children and young adults
- Audio workshop
Reinvent Yourself - So you want to be a writer..
Creative Writing - Stage 1
"I have taken this year off specifically to focus on expanding my writing skills and to launch myself as a serious writer. I have tinkered with feature writing for newspapers and travel writing and would now like to take it further. This course has enabled me to set some clear goals, focus on specific literary genres, tap into useful networks and meet other like-minded writers.The skills I will take away will not only allow me to hone my craft but, more importantly, to change my life."
- Bettina Wishart, Victoria.
"I absolutely loved Kate's style of teaching- so easy to follow and extremely informative! I also appreciated how encouraging she was. Thank you!"
- Kelly Laurantus
"Kate is an accomplished author whose books I really enjoy, so it was great just to hear her share her considerable knowledge on writing in a very matter-of-fact and engaging way.
"I've learned a ton about the craft of storytelling, including many things I did not know before, and intend to apply as much of it as I can when I re-write the first draft of my novel.
- Vincent Truitner
"Overall, the course was brilliant!"
- Tina McIntosh
"Information coming from a published author is invaluable, Pamela Freeman helped not only with many ways to go about refining a piece of work but also ensured we knew what to expect in the book industry."
- Asha Davidson
"It was a very friendly atmosphere, there was no pressure to write anything amazing and you didn't feel compared to the other students. Pamela has fantastic knowledge of writing and the industry and passed this on in a very understanding manner. The location was fantastic close to parking which made it a lot easier and the view is amazing."
- Alyssa Tasker
"I have always wanted to write creatively but I have long been guilty of collecting half finished pieces of work. I have now learnt how to put the pieces together and the true gift of that knowledge is that I have found my creative flow. I am now writing everyday and really experiencing the beauty of the creative process, the difference for me feels nothing short of amazing.
"I found this course to be not only educational in teaching me the skills that I so desired to know but it has also blessed me with a great support network. It's an inspiring experience to be in a room with minds that are all hungry for the same thing and a room filled with passion. This is a brilliant course!"
- Imogen Bailey
"You have taken me further than I'd ever hoped into a world of storytelling and infinite possibilities. Thank you for your never-ending inspiration, guidance and support through the process of creating and beyond."
- Jenny Diamond
"The Creative Writing course was a great way to kick-start my writing ambitions in a supportive and fun environment. I was really motivated to keep writing after every class."
- Linda Ballam-Davies
"The presenter was inspiring and I felt she was being honest in her feedback. It was wonderful."
- Midge McCall
"Pamela Freeman is a fabulous teacher! She just has such a talent for it. It's rare that a good writer is also a good teacher. I am very inspired"
- Iona Krefel
"It forced me to put pen to paper and gave me some encouragement to continue. It was very good. Pamela had obviously structured and prepared the course well."
- Michael Senior
"It was a very nice group of people, there were good reading materials and very practical and useful tips from
a professional."
- Ned Sheeran
"I benefitted enormously from the course not just as a result of Pam's insights and straight talking style but also as a result of being surrounded by interested and interesting classmates.
"I'm glad I did it! I know I can write, and write well, but needed Pam's insights into the process and the realities of writing, whether for a living or for fun. I might just get off my backside now and start the novel I believe I have in me."
- Floyd Robichaux
"The course offered practical and insightful tips and advice on writing. I came away knowing more about writing than when I started. The teacher was excellent and there was a good bunch of people."
- David Olivetti
"I loved the course. It was great because it gave me the basic foundations and structure for good writing. It's not enough to have an idea or a perceived flair for writing. There are RULES! With writing, you need to understand the basics of good dialogue, characterisation, structure (scene & summary), point of view, and editing.
"Pamela gave us a really solid foundation to work from, as well as a fair dose of reality and inspiration as she shared her own stories of writing with us. So, whilst I haven't written a novel YET, I have got my outline done and have a way forward, finally!"
- Michelle Barraclough
"Great - I would highly recommend this to anybody who needs any form of guidance when it comes to any writing - not just creative writing. Pamela is a true artist."
- Mona Tannous
"I’ve just been offered my first contract, a four-book deal with Omnibus Press ... Big thanks to you, Valerie, for the Sydney Writers' Centre, to Pamela for her course and to Geoff for reading my proposal. Thanks!"
- Mitch Lewis
"Pamela is an excellent teacher and an incredible listener. Her ability to take in her students work, digest and deliver value in her feedback was outstanding. This has given me an empowered perspective from which to write but also from which to critique my own work."
- Tim Lassig
"I have been writing professionally as a journalist for 18 years but there was so much I didn't know until I attended this course. I left on the final evening feeling inspired rather than scared about writing fiction."
- Michael Smith
"I would unreservedly recommend it to anyone seeking to take their writing from ideas to create stories."
- Ben Dalrymple
"The relaxed and flowing conversations about good books, great stories and fascinating characters were expertly woven together with practical lessons on how to craft your own words."
- Gemma Swart
"Being taught by someone like Pamela who has had so much experience in the field of creative writing was very enlightening. The atmosphere was very relaxed and the course has really given me momentum with my writing by giving me the tools that I need to improve.
"It was informative, encouraging and inspiring."
- Caroline Betts
"Pamela was excellent, very lively and helpful. She brought in a lot of personal experience, which was precisely what I'd hoped for."
- Annie Chiv
"I found it a significant stepping stone for those like myself wishing to discover the foundation of how to write creatively for short stories or a novel."
- Alex Jones
"I found the presenter to be incredibly dynamic and informative. The exercises to unlock your imagination were very valuable and I will continue to use them."
- Susan Rovelli
"One of the difficulties I find in writing is finding a couple of hours to focus - the discipline of going to the Writer's Centre every Tuesday night got me into that rhythm and allowed some time to think without distraction. I also enjoyed the materials and course structure. Pamela's real life experience was great to hear and understand. She was a charming presenter and I enjoyed her insights."
- Ken McKenzie
"I always thought I had a very poor imagination and I have always been stuck for story ideas. But with this course it showed me how to get past that and where to look inside myself for inspiration."
- Catherine Hawthorne
"Even though I am only new to writing, during the course I found so many new techniques and ways of approaching my work that I couldn’t have discovered without help. Writing is a passion I have only just recently discovered, and to have a course that offers so much in these early stages of my learning was the best experience I could have hoped for. I loved the course and would recommend it to anyone who wanted to take creative writing to the next level."
- Gustavo Panucci
"I didn't know what to expect from the course and wondered, before the start, how it was possible to teach someone to write creatively. Well I quickly found out. I loved every stage of the course, all the tips, writing excercises, exploring different ways of writing, building character profiles. Every bit of it was thoroughly enjoyable and I'm sad that the 5 weeks has come to an end. Jeni is a brilliant teacher, I loved listening to her, she has so much positive energy and she made the group feel very relaxed. The course has given me the confidence to start moving ideas from my mind to paper. I see a story wherever I might to be, whatever I happen to see. It's a very exciting place to be."
- Kate Bradley
Creative Writing - Stage 2
"Judith's ideas were interesting and stimulating. Her feedback was very useful and encouraging. The course was full of lots of ideas and motivation. I am on the way to completing a piece of writing for the first time ever!"
- Lis Blake
"I am now committed to finishing my first novel after years of prevarication!"
- Andrew Franks
"I enjoyed the opportunity to get feedback on my writing from several readers with entirely different perspectives than my own.
"As a result of the course I have become even more conscious of the importance of getting exactly the right words in the right place. I have always known this was important in other types of writing but in fiction it becomes absolutely vital."
- David Andrews
Writing books for children and young adults
"I found Judith to be enthusiastic and inspiring, and she demonstrated an amazing knowledge of all aspects of writing for children. The work produced by people in the group ranged from picturebooks, through historicals to young adult fiction, but in all cases Judith was able to provide valuable guidance.
"She also created a wonderful group dynamic, in which the members critiqued each others' work in a constructive and supportive manner."
- Harriet Jordan, e-learning designer and writing student
"Judith Ridge really opened my eyes to the unique art of children's writing. She made me think about how to approach and write for children and to think about the differences between writing for children and writing for adults. She improved my manuscript for children enormously.
"I would recommend her courses to anyone at any level who has an interest in children's literature and writing."
- Sarah Thompson
"Overall, the course was excellent. Judith covered a lot of ground in the short time available and gave a lot of examples of existing publications. The course was structured in such a way that complete beginners could get as much out of it as more experienced participants."
- Patrick Silsbey
"Judith is a fantastic teacher. She covered all the aspects that I expected out of the course and more. She made extra effort in reviewing work and suggesting and providing additional reading material to my particular area of interest. She openly shared her expertise and encouraged us all. Judith and the centre created a nurturing and open environment for us to discuss our work. The course was intimate in size but felt very professional in content."
- Libbie Doherty
"Each night I left having learnt something new and of value to my writing."
- David Nunn
"I received some good tips in regards to publishers and what they want. There was a great deal of very useful information and Judith presented all of it very well."
- Michelle Crook
"Judith knew her stuff and it showed in her enthusiasm when she taught the class. Judith provided information I didn't even know I would need when writing for children. I took on everything from themes to focus on language and what children like compared to what adults think children would like."
- Megan Hughes
"She has such a colourful personality which kept me interested in learning more."
- Pat Kefalas
"I have come to understand the big picture and how the industry works. I have of course learnt what makes good writing and all the different concepts that you need to consider when writing a children's book."
- Lauren Harding
"I feel more confident about my ability to write children's stories that are engaging and also how to proceed to the next stage of getting them published."
- Chris Mitchell
"I am writing more, and within a week of finishing the course, I was able to have a fresh look at one of my manuscripts; re-edit the work, and finally take the plunge and submit it to publishers."
- Jacy Kattan
"It has encouraged me to find my writers voice and that it is ok to write and not be published straight away but to just enjoy the journey of writing."
- Karen Hendbark
"I have a much clearer understanding of my own writing style preferences now thanks to the course and Judith's invaluable sharing of information."
- Barbara Hawes
"I could have listened to Judith for hours - she has seemingly endless passion and information to share! I didn't know much about writing beyond high school English so the course has given me valuable insight and the confidence and contacts to start writing."
- Jane Wessling
"I really liked the way Judith was very open to answering everybody's questions and giving honest feedback on our work Judith's comments on my work have helped me very much."
- Karyn Sepulveda
"The presenter Judith was such a source of information and I enjoyed her approach and humour! It was most enjoyable. It has definitely given me the direction I needed to get started and progress with my writing."
- Michelle Bowry
"Being Danish it was essential for me to learn about Australian writers and Judy was spot on and I now have a long list of writers to read up on. It was fabulous to spend 2 hours in Judy's company every Thursday night, she has got a fantastic energy. I am even more dedicated to building up stories around my characters. I am inspired to make my writing happen."
- Christina Biel
"This is the first course I have ever done on writing so it was all worthwhile. I now understand some of the pitfalls of writing (although no doubt there are many more) and some aspects of writing that were previously intuitive. I really liked Judith Ridge. Judith Ridge is not just a very capable and knowledgeable presenter but a very approachable person willing to spend time helping people. This goes beyond the classroom."
- Annette Moran
"It was amazing to be surrounded by so many creative and talented writers. It was truly inspiring. I have made a network of aspiring writers who have offered support and encouragement for me to succeed. I have re-awoken my passion for writing."
- Carolyn Francis
"[I enjoyed] The interaction between participants, Judith's enthusiasm for the subject matter. I learnt new things, got brought up to speed with contemporary children's literature, and was able to have a lot of things confirmed that I knew intrinsically but didn't know I knew until Judith brought it up!"
- Siew Jin Ooi
"Judith is a fantastic presenter, enthusiastic and passionate about children's literature and you can't help but get caught up in her enthusiasm."
- Germaine Leece
"The people and the activities, it was a great experience all round and extremely helpful. I have heaps of information now to help me in my schooling work. The class has given me an excellent sense of direction, it's fantastic."
- Liam O'Leary
"Very professional and well organised. Judith's knowledge of the topics really consolidated the material and handouts that were discussed on the course."
- Andrew Smerdon
"The best thing was the fun and relaxed atmosphere. Judith is an excellent teacher and I have learnt a lot from her. The course was very informative, covered many areas of writing."
- Simon Painting
"With the direction and advice given at the course I feel motivated to at least give writing a go, where as before I had doubts whether or not I should even start."
- Anthony Maraca
"Judith was great. She provided a broad spectrum of knowledge regarding industry plus amazing passion for the industry."
- Dimitri Andreatidis
"I enjoyed Judith's wonderful enthusiasm for, and knowledge of, the topic. I now have much more detailed knowledge of the children's publishing market. The course inspired me to sign up for the Creative Writing course."
- Angharad Dalton
"I have used what we discussed in my own writing and now have a better understanding of the writing process."
- Peter Latimer
"I learned a lot about how to write. I can now get writing! It was great to have inside knowledge from an experienced editor."
- Joy Mortimer
"I have got lots of ideas about getting started. I have gained so much knowledge and insight now. Judith and Pamela were very knowledgeable and warm presenters."
- Margaret Fitzgibbon
"This is the first course I have ever done on writing so it was all worthwhile. Judith Ridge is not just a very capable and knowledgeable presenter but a very approachable person willing to spend time helping people. This goes beyond the classroom."
- Annette Moran
"The content was fantastic. I have learnt much about writing for children and how to take my work forward."
- Roslyn Rogers
"I can approach my own story writing with a better sense of structure, and I'm becoming a lot more aware of the realities of publishing."
- Meegan Parkee
"Judith's comments on my work have helped me very much. The information she presented us with was also very useful."
- Karyn Sepulveda
"I loved the course and truly Judith is a brilliant and enthusiastic teacher ... she is passionate about children's books and such a huge knowledge of all the different age groups so that she could be speaking of four year old book of verse and switch to fifteen year old teenage writing with ease as she knew her subject matter ... so thank you for your help and advice and thank you to Judith too."
- Robyn Elliott
Script Writing for Short Films
"Geoff's real world experience was invaluable and worth the price alone."
- Chris Bradford
"The presenters information was very practical, he knew what he was talking about and came across genuinely interested and helpful. I have a better idea of the steps involved in the overall process."
- David Owens
"It was fantastic to understand the process of a short film and how ideas become reality. Before this course I had a few vague ideas for short films. I know what to do next if I want to enter Tropfest! Also have a range of resources from the presenter which will be invaluable."
- Katie Whiffen
"I got a lot out of the course and am really glad that I enrolled. I'm going to work on the script for my 'deleted' idea and would love to get your feedback. It's very generous of you to offer your time in that way. At this stage, making a film does seem to me like a very daunting prospect, but you've helped me to understand how the process can be broken up into manageable steps."
- Sue Joseph
"I'd like to say how much I really enjoyed the course. To be honest, I was very taken back by my lack of foresight regarding my outline I presented to you.Once you explained where I had gone, it all made sense. Again, thanks for your input."
- Peter Avery
Marketing Your Book
"Amanda is a vibrant, energetic presenter who believes in what she teaches. She is experienced and well prepared, using a variety of methods to convey her message, and convinced me that I should pay more attention to the marketing side of authorship. At all times she involved members of the class and drew on their experience."
- Jennie Ross
"Amanda knew her stuff and gave us clear guidelines on how to market our book. She also gave me a reality check as to what's needed to successfully market a book."
- Kamal Weerakoon
Perfecting Your Pitch
"Getting insight from a working freelance writer was extremely helpful. It was also fantastic to structure the course with one lecture and Q&A session followed by a workshop session. I took the course to learn how to write a pitch and to gain insight into an industry I know very little about and came away having learned what I sought to learn."- Grace Foss
"Good practical advice and feedback on my pitch. [The course has] given me some feedback on my own pitches and ideas/tips on how to successfully pitch."
- Ros Page
"Clear and precise information, well delivered. The chance to have my own work evaluated."
- Jane Rowley
"I thought Sue conducted a really accessible and relevant course, made all the more so by including examples from her own inspiring journey. The class exercises brought us out of our comfort zones and encouraged us to just go ahead and take the next step and learn from it. It almost provides a mental preparedness for going ahead and making the pitch."
- Suzi van Middelkoop
Crime writing workshop
"Presenter was great. Particularly enjoyed the insight into the process of writing. She's obviously very experienced and well connected in industry and was very generous in sharing her experiences. Course had good balance of structure and diversion from outline where appropriate. Well paced.
"Took home lots of really valuable information and leads on resources. Generated lots of ideas talking to other people and getting feedback. I definitely feel a lot more confident about the process of writing."
- Karen Allan
"The presenter was very knowledgeable - the content was excellent and the size of the group was good. I am feel better equipped to continue on with my novel and am certainly more inspired and motivated."
- Kate Walter
"The presenter was very experienced and gave lots of useful tips. Lots of ideas for how to improve my writing and especially my research."
- Elizabeth Foster
Life Writing
"The benefits of doing this course were priceless. Not only did my writing passion and skill increase, but I allowed me to truely find myself. Patti's techniques, exercises and experience allows you to look at yourself, evaluate yourself and find your true self through writing. It has increased my confidence, my skill and my desire to write. Thank you so much"
- Nat Watson
"I found the course liberating in overcoming the barrier to start writing. Patti is an inspiring and encouraging teacher and excellent group facilitator. It was most enjoyable and met my objectives."
- Carolyn Leigh
"It was a great experience. I haven't been in a class room for 20 years so it was a little scary at first but Patti was awesome. She's a very good teacher, a lovely lady. Everyone was great in fact, it was a wonderful experience to share with like minded people, it's nice to know you're not alone in the quest! Bloody brilliant!"
- Marcia Tsiliris
"The course was a breakthrough experience for many of us. It gave us inspiration, energy to write, excellent tips and a sense of achievement. In such a short term, Patti managed to make us write good pieces, almost a start of our own book."
- Aurora Lopez
"Patti is a wonderful teacher and mentor, great at making people feel relaxed and their contributions worthy."
- Helen Vatsikopoulos
"The teacher and the students were all very encouraging and informative. It has made me get into a habit of writing and has also given me the confidence to display my thoughts on the page."
- Katherine Badatzanis
"I have been encouraged, inspired and the writing I have done so far has helped me see my life in a different light."
- Judith McIvor
"Patti is such a positive person and she made it a lot of fun with our group whilst learning a lot. She has an amazing way of teaching and brings out the best in you."
- Ruby Rebic
"I found the class very inspiring, informative and interesting. I learned so much in such little time. I also met some very wonderful people and enjoyed interacting with them each week. I feel more confident now to go ahead with my own projects as a result of the information given in the class."
- Julie Abrahams
"I enjoyed Patti's teaching style, experience and encouragement. The small class of participants (12) allowed us to get to know one another, share our writing and interact.
"It has inspired me to keep writing and to learn more about writing. I feel the quality of my writing has improved. I'm certainly now aware of many things I was doing wrong!"
- Kerry Osborne
"Patti Miller has extensive experience and expertise, and is an outstanding teacher as well - a rare combination."
- Carolyn Barnabo
"Patti is a very good teacher, she has a wonderful ability to draw out creativity from the students. I hope to write that book! The course has allowed me to take off my training wheels and maybe give it a go."
- Suzanne McGillivray
Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers Stage 1
"Judy Skatssoon was excellent. Judy is dynamic, free spirited, and provides students with expert knowledge, insight and information. Judy's style is also interactive, which I enjoyed.
"I have gained greater knowledge of feature writing, the structure, skill-set and style required. Also, from a business perspective, the invaluable knowledge of how to market and manage feature writing as an independent freelance writer."
- Gary Wells
"Judy is an excellent teacher whose knowledge of the industry is a valuable addition to the practical information shared throughout the course. The course has given me the kick start I needed to start writing features."
- Jemma Gorman
"Valerie's vast knowledge and passion was evident in all of the sessions, and was a great inspiration. A well rounded, informative and highly practical course."
- Sally Pater
"I loved learning a new skill. Making something which always seemed baffling, achievable and fun."
- Natalie Macken
"I already arranged a meeting with the editor of a magazine to pitch my idea in person"
- Lisa Yates
"Taking Judy Skatssoon's Feature Writing course was a great investment. Not only did Judy pass on great tips for writing features, but her enthusiasm encouraged me to pursue work as a freelance writer. Since taking her course I have been published in the Australian Associated Press and Canberra Times and can't stop writing."
- Allison Garoza
"The small class sizes gave us more personal attention and opportunity to chat with other classmates. Judy Skatssoon is a fantastic teacher with a wealth of subject knowledge and experience. Within a month of finishing the course, I had my first story printed as a full page spread in the Sun Herald! Since then, I have had further success with my stories getting picked up by a variety of other publications."
- Cindy Bingley-Pullin
"I found Valerie Khoo's writing course to be, in a word, inspiring. Valerie's warmly communicative style of teaching engaged and challenged all of us to be fearless in facing and filling that intimidating beast called the blank page.
"Valerie, with apologies to Dan Brown, certainly decoded my inner Da-Vinci and fired my already electronic media trained imagination to make the transition to print."
- David White, former 2SM and 2DAY FM presenter and award-winning environmental journalist.
"I found Valerie's course invaluable. I thought I knew how to write but Valerie gave us practical insights that helped me to improve my style as well as become a better editor of my own work.
"Ultimately, it was the pragmatic approach to targeting and pitching that was most useful and I had my first successful pitch within two months of completing the course. Highly recommended."
- Cassandra Whobrey
"Although I'd worked in the media before, I was unsure how to make a start as a freelance feature writer. Valerie Khoo's course on feature writing went through the basics of developing story ideas relevant to specific newspapers and magazines; how to approach editors and pitch stories.
"After a few unsuccessful attempts an editor commissioned a story from me. It was just the break I needed and I've worked steadily as a freelance writer for the past three years."
- Jackie Woods, freelance writer
"Having had an idea for an article mingling about in my brain for months, but not knowing how to write it, I enrolled in Valerie Khoo's course. The sessions, which were entertaining as well as informative, equipped me with the know-how and incentive to finish my article; and it got published!"
- Andrew Wood, Wollongong
"The course was extremely well structured. It took the mystery out of how to write an article. The examples of what makes a well written piece as opposed to a poorly written piece, were really helpful. It gave me more confidence to approach new publications and helped me to understand the expectations that such publication have of me. The course was worthwhile and empowering.
"I've since moved to the Northern Territory and have become a regular correspondent for the national publication Outback Magazine. It has given me certain tools that have allowed me to make a change in how and where I live and work."
- Peter Solness, photojournalist
"I really enjoyed Valerie's course, sharing her experiences and those of the other participants really helped my writing skills.
"The hands on exercises were extremely valuable in helping me simplify my writing and most importantly creating better transitions in my work. Now - I always ask myself the question - how do I get from point A to point B, and most importantly how to I take my reader with me?"
- Sue Bradshaw, technical writer
"Valerie's course on feature writing for magazines was wonderful. We explored the nuances, tips and tricks for writing for magazines while preparing work of our own and receiving Valerie's invaluable feedback. This course provided practical steps for writing, editing and learning the steps to see your work in print."
- Julia Bowyer
"In short, what your course gave me was a good understanding of the magazine writing process. I learnt about how to choose a topical theme, research issues, interview people, and find the right the words to link elements of the article."
- David Morgan
"The course was a great kickstart to become motivated to do something about my writing, and even make money out of it! Valerie showed us very practical ways to get work into print, and taught us that you don't necessarily have to study writing to become a published writer.
"It definitely enhanced my writing skills and gave me more confidence, and also made me more critical of articles that I read. Valerie is friendly, funny and obviously very knowledgeable, making it a fun and interesting course which I looked forward to each week."
- Katie Delaney
"I would like to extend my thanks to you for such an enlightening course. The skills I have learnt from your expertise in the area of feature writing have surely inspired and motivated many people in the class, including me.
"Since taking part in your short course I have gained the necessary confidence to pursue my passion for writing, and have since successfully submitted several features to a variety of media outlets. No mountain too small I say ... thanks for leading me out of base camp!!!"
- Michelle Evans
"I loved Valerie's course as it was full of practical tips and ideas that really changed my approach to writing. The course also introduced me to some fabulous fellow budding writers."
- Caroline Thomas
"Valerie's course provides a valuable insight into the world of freelance writing. Her practical guidance and encouragement has given me the confidence to get out there and give it a go."
- Karin van Heerwaarden
"I was thoroughly impressed with the course content and its time management. It was great to learn so much in depth in a relatively short space of time. It was informative, non-threatening and extremely comprehensive. A great way to get ahead with obviously simple but effective methods!"
- Natalie Reiss
"Valerie's feature writing course is great. It's very comprehensive and easy to follow. I am now more confident in the way I approach editors with my queries and it is paying off!
"I have an article coming out in Ironman magazine and have been commissioned to do article for Fernwood magazine, with the prospect of another one."
- Lela Husen
"Excellent! Will definitely give me a head start in a freelance magazine feature writing career!"
- Monica Tan
"It was informative and easy to grasp with lots of very useful tips. Content was really good. Brilliant."
- Marcia Tsiliris
"Every bit of information that was provided was practical. Valerie's passion for writing was clearly evident and her enthusiasm to help others realise their dreams was awesome. LOVED IT LOVED IT LOVED IT.
"I would highly recommend it. I could not have imagined that I would have got so much out of it in such a small time frame."
- Ana Vavdinos
"Thanks to your support and inspiration, I am now officially able to join the ranks of your published former students. If not for your very clear message that there is so much material being published that there is definitely work out there for those who want it, I would have given up, thinking it is a closed shop. Thanks for your support."
- Carolyn Swindell
“Fantastic. Very intense! No-nonsense, thorough and clear. The best writing course out there.”
- Eden Riley
"You inspired and motivated me to believe that a freelance writing career is definitely possible. I am now a published writer! The first article I ever submitted was published in The Sydney Morning Herald. Now, a few months later, I am the web editor for mychildmagazine.com.au. Thank you to Valerie for your ongoing support, inspiration and encouragement.
"Valerie is passionate about people pursuing their dream job and the feature writing course was the beginning of my journey in believing a writing career is achievable. Valerie, thanks again for all your enthusiasm. It really is my dream job and I am still pinching myself."
- Marija Castellari
"I thought I would let you know that I have a new job as in-house travel/features journalist for caravan and motorhomes magazine! I get to publish a lot of stories - about 5 per month - plus lots of travel in the outback (!) and photographing. So thank you for all that you taught us."
- Carly Middleton
"This course really reaffirmed my passion for writing and I would recommend it to anyone interested in journalism. It tells you everything you need to know about becoming a successful freelance journalist and helps budding journalists avoid some common pitfalls when starting out. During my interviews with the Australian Financial Review, the fact that I had done even a short course, helped show that I was committed to journalism."
- Katja Buhrer, who got a job as a journalist with the Australian Financial Review within three weeks of finishing the course.
"I really enjoyed the feature writing course with Valerie and came away feeling inspired and well equipped to give it a go - I just had to be brave and get on with it! A couple of months later, I was inspired by a day trip I did and found the enthusiasm to write a 1000 word piece easily the following afternoon. I knew it was appropriate for the weekend Sydney Morning Herald so I thought I might as well aim high. 10 days later on Saturday morning I enjoyed reading my name in print! First time lucky and I'm definitely going to try some more."
- Miranda Corkin
“I knew how to write and that I wanted to make that into a career but Valerie's course taught me how to make that dream a reality. The details like how to pitch, how to stand out and what not to do were invaluable lessons. An idea I had in class turned into the City Weekly cover story and now I can't wait to build up my portfolio and get a full-time job in the print media industry. I now know this is possible and that in itself is a fantastic feeling.
“Thank you to Valerie for her ongoing support and straight to the point honesty. Having competed school and university, and had numerous teachers, Valerie has been one of the very best.”
- Tatyana Leonov
"This was the most inspiring course I've done for a long time! I will definitely be out getting started in writing, and no doubt will be back to do more courses in the future. Thank you! Overall, it was excellent. Absolutely inspiring!"
- Sue White
"Valerie is a great teacher, extremely knowledgeable and has lots of great examples to illustrate her points. She is very direct and to the point which I found great for a course that is limited in its time. Overall I found the course very practical and informative."
- Eva Tanner
"Valerie was a fascinating presenter. I enjoyed the fast pace. Valerie's insights into the industry were invaluable. This was one of the best courses I've ever done."
- Anna Babatzanis
"The best thing is the clear and succinct nature in which Valerie delivers the course. It is interesting, sharp, relevant and a useful manner in which it was delivered. Ie. I never lost interest... not even for 1 minute!
"The course has improved the quality of my writing and the manner in which I deal with media (which is every week in my job... I was pretty ignorant until now). Increased my focus and clarity in writing as I now have more structure to pull all my (many, many) thoughts together... "
- Tina Demetriou, Tide Event Management
"I completed the Feature Writing for Newspapers & Magazines course back in January 2007. After a job change, a move to Queensland and a redundancy I recently got out my course notes and decided to finally focus (properly) on my dream of freelance writing. After a few weeks I'm happy to say I've been published in the Courier Mail! After emailing a short article on spec, I was commissioned to expand it - and it wound up getting a full page and colour pictures!! I have also been commissioned by Mother & Baby magazine to expand on an article I wrote as part of the course. It's all very exciting!
"Your insistence that "there's plenty of work out there if you want it" was key in motivating me to send out my articles, and I just wanted to say thanks for a great course!!"
- Stephanie Allen
"Valerie Khoo is just mesmerising to listen to. She is very inspiring and has an uncanny talent of making you believe you can be a writer."
- Linda Habak
"I just wanted to let you know that I have just started a full time job as a news reporter at Medical Observer. I just wanted to say thank you for putting me in touch with them, and also for the skills you taught me in the feature writing course. I will certainly be putting them to good use in my new job."
- Catherine Hanrahan
"Judy is a fantastic presenter - enthusiastic, passionate, helpful and very knowledgable."
- Anna Warren
"It motivated me to start writing! It gave me a boost in confidence to take my ideas seriously and do something about them. The units on how to structure a feature article were extremely helpful."
- Johanna Rigg-Smith
"I found Valerie's style and enthusiasm fantastic - she was direct, to the point and was very realistic about the expectations we should have."
- Alison Parr
"Valerie's knowledge of the industry and formulaic approach will help me pursue a career in writing. Valerie's personality and great presentation style. It was simple to follow and she was full of information."
- Marie Chemney
"I knew I could write, the course has given me more confidence that there's a career out there."
- Matthew Mcholland
"The Sydney Writers' Centre Feature Writing course is a must if you plan to tackle the world of freelance writing. Valerie Khoo not only provides an excellent class structure and industry knowledge but her enthusiasm is so infectious that you can't wait to get started! I've just had my first article published in the Autumn edition of My Child magazine and I'm hooked! Thank you so much for your invaluable class, advice and support."
- Candace Goffin
"Despite a journalism qualification, I was unsure how and where to start writing. Pam's experience and positivity have given me a big push forward.
"I thoroughly enjoyed the course and am sad it is over. Pamela is a talented presenter and I admire her method of answering questions without indulging her audience too much. We all appreciated her wealth of experience."
- Meryl Hancock
"Confidence, confidence, confidence! And then there are a few more benefits. Suffice to say, I now know so much more about feature writing than I did five weeks ago, despite a lifetime of reading many different kinds of magazines, newspapers, online articles. For five years, I coordinated articles for local newspapers so what more could there be to learn about writing for newspapers? So much and so much more again. Now I feel that I can really be a feature writer. It's up to me."
- Robyn Sharp
"I've also been signed on as a regular freelance contributor with the Herald Sun Home Magazine, something that has meant I am now freelancing four days a week! It has been an amazing few months since I finished the course and I have to say, none of this would have been possible without your incredible skill and advice. So, many thanks once again for such a fabulous course, it really has changed my life!"
- Penny Harrison
"I really liked Pamela. She was enthusiastic, experience and informative. A really excellent presenter - friendly and helpful. She obviously knew what she was talking about and made the whole class feel supported."
- Catrin May
"Pamela is a great teacher, very encouraging and motivating. There is an enormous amount of information covered, and by the end of the course you feel prepared to begin the freelance journey."
- Aja Stuart
"I have finally had an article published in Home Beautiful! Thank you so much for all your wonderful help in assisting me to get to this point - without your ongoing encouragement I doubt I would have persevered. I found your course to be not only extremely practical, but also inspirational and it certainly gave me the tools to pursue my dream of writing for interiors magazines."
- Angela Furlong
"The course was excellent as it was tailored to suit those who had no prior experience in journalism or media and seeking a career change. The content was presented well, easy to understand and highly practical. Pamela gave consistent feedback throughout the course which allowed you to develop your skills as the course progressed. Pamela was more than willing to answer questions at any time."
- Diana Perich
"Pamela really knows her stuff, was happy to fully answer all questions and was very happy to share her knowledge and experiences."
- Grant Hyman
"The information presented was very interesting and informative and covered all the relevant areas of freelance writing. I particularly enjoyed reading and analysing the sample feature articles provided. Pamela was a fantastic and inspiring teacher too."
- Nitasha Thomson
"The personal correspondence with Pamela was great! It was great how she would include her personal experiences and view as an experience editor."
- Raine Jackson
"Friendly, Laid back atmosphere. Content was simple to understand and plenty of time for discussion and feedback. Very helpful and supportive."
- Rachael Morris
"Valerie was a dynamic and knowledgeable presenter and the course itself was practical and inspirational. Excellent for any writer or wannabe writer who wants the skills and knowhow to launch a freelance career. I now have theoretical and practical knowledge of the process of writing a feature article and getting it published. I have been inspired to pursue my passion for writing."
- Samantha Lau
Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers Stage 2
"The course was chock-full on useful information. The presenter made it lively and informative and had fantastic industry knowledge and experience. I feel more confident and informed on how to go about pitching ideas - and coming up with them in the first place."
- Sylvia Aitken
"I like the fact that Judy works in the field and brings real knowledge to the course; she's very helpful and approachable. I did a similar course at [another organisation] last year and I must say that this one was, by far, superior. What was so great about your course was the small class size that enabled us to address questions as a group. It really was a far superior course to the one I did last year! Well done!"
- Kerstin Pilz
"Judy really knows her stuff and as always (this was my 5th course with the Sydney Writers' Centre) the content, delivery and genuinely sincere interest in students’ success was obvious. Whilst the original class (Feature Writing Stage 1) was good enough to springboard a lot of students to success, I’m glad I paid the extra for the Masterclass. The value of the extra knowledge quickly became obvious as both a condensed recap and advanced understanding of the freelance journalistic environment."
- Grant Hyman – author of ‘A Practical Guide to Selling’.
Successful Freelancing Seminar
"The Successful Freelancing Seminar is invaluable for all freelancers, from those just launching their freelancing career through to experienced writers looking for a motivational boost.
"Valerie enthusiastically shares her expertise, both as a writer and editor, providing participants with excellent 'inside information' to ensure their own success."
- Briar Jensen, freelance writer and photojournalist
"For someone taking their first freelancing steps, attending the seminar on how to survive as a freelancer was one of the best things I could have done.
"Valerie Khoo and Gayle Bryant gave a concise, intensive and extremely comprehensive overview of all the things a new freelancer needs to know about the industry, from pitching stories to protecting copyright to chasing payment. I came away from the evening feeling so motivated and excited about the possibilities."
- Bianca Nogrady
"I enjoyed the informal atmosphere and the fact that we could be involved in the discussion. I also enjoyed Valerie's enthusiasm and encouragement. It was a great way to meet other writers/editors and to gain more confidence in the idea that you can actually be in control of a freelance career. It was interesting and not too overloaded with information - a great mix."
- Deborah Ronald
"Since attending the Successful Freelancing Seminar in February I have had three stories accepted for a
parenting publication and have begun writing for business publications. The seminar motivated me and pointed me in the right direction. Thank you!"
- Sandy Leen
"I was at the Successful Freelancing seminar last night and just wanted to say thanks. I came up from Melbourne especially for it, and it was definitely worth the trip!"
- Daniel Papas
"Valerie and Gayle as presenters were very good, they were informative and answered all questions thoroughly. I now feel more confidant in my abilities as a freeelance writer and look forward to putting in place some of the advice which Valerie and Gayle gave at the seminar."
- Erin Aldersea
"It was great. The presenters were both very knowledgeable and obviously knew what they were talking about. A great resource of information. I feel confident to finally start freelancing!"
- Vanessa Imrie
Self-publishing - How to do it
"Exactly what I needed to give me the confidence to go forward. Little things like how to get an ISBN, and the handout to use a guide for process and layout were invaluable when you haven't got a clue. Thank you. I now know I can 'have a go'."
- Lynda Bennett
"It was good to meet other writers who have actually self-published - and succeeded. It was useful to hear both the positive and negative aspects of self-publishing.
"I found the discussion on marketing helpful and, even though it sounds challenging, it's great to be creative and think of the book as a product that simply need to be sold!"
- Wendy Quisumbing
"Thanks so much for your seminar, it was awesome! I thought the seminar was extremely well organised and the content was to the point and very helpful for aspiring self publishers. My partner and I are going to work on our book - thanks so much!"
- Vanessa Volpato
"It was particularly refreshing to see two enthusiastic and honest people who were positive and committed to the art of self-publishing.
"The most useful part for me was the wealth of information on printing costs which appears to be a large part of self-publishing in addition to other factors such as PR/marketing. It was conducted in a friendly and open environment with a lot of relevant and thoughtful information - I enjoyed it!"
- Michelle O'Neill
"Thank you so much for the Self-Publishing course. It was so informative - the advice on printing was excellent but the advice on the "small business" you become when selling your own book was invaluable.
"The information about advertising, publicity, methods of selling etc would be essential to anyone with a small business, whether they're selling a book or not.
"The presenters were very honest and generous with your time and experience. It was not just theory, you've both achieved this, and that was really motivating."
- Claire O'Connor
"I spent 3 years thinking about, and then 18 months seriously researching and writing my new book, 'A Practical Guide to Selling'. The problem was that the more I learned, the more I realised how much I didn't know, as my research kept coming up with new questions.
"3 courses with Sydney Writers' Centre totalling a little over a day and less than a thousand dollars not only saved me as much as 12-18 months in further research, but also gave me insights and perspectives that could have cost me years - imagine a false start to the book AFTER I had gone to print!
"Whether you want to simply learn more so you can make an informed go/no-go decision on your writing future, or you have made the decision to try writing for pleasure or profit, Sydney Writers' Centre is the only way to go 'in my book' - I literally couldn't have done it without them!"
- Grant Hyman
Proud Author of 'A Practical Guide to Selling'
"Our books How To Grow Your Business By Taking 3 Months Off and The Invisible Entrepreneur would have never seen the light of day without the knowledge gained as a result of attending the Sydney Writers' Centre workshops. The truth be known, we were greener than green in the field of self publishing, writing and crafting a book, and PR in promoting books. The Sydney Writers' Centre provided us with a blueprint to get us on this journey.
"We do not believe that we could have succeeded to the level we are enjoying today without the help of the Sydney Writers' Centre. We are deeply indebted, privileged and blessed to have found Sydney Writers' Centre and be coached by its tutors."
- Louise Woodbury and William de Ora
"The Self Publishing seminar at the Sydney Writers' Centre was informative and inspiring. The seminar not only covered the process of how to self-publish, but brought it alive with specific examples of how others have put this information into practice. I would highly recommend this seminar to anyone who is exploring their options of how to realize their publishing dream."
- Karen Adamedes
"I knew within the first three minutes I had already made my money back ... and then some."
- John Myers, Author of Tsunami Sudoku
"It was good to look at the examples of other people's self published books and hear their stories."
- Julie Macken
"Well I've done it. Little Wins for Working Women is my first "Little" book. Thanks for your encouragement over the past couple of years, I'm really enjoying my writing. I'm working on a couple of new ideas now and will share any success they bring in the future."
- Jen Dalitz
"I have learnt invaluable practical insights into the world of self-publishing. The presenter was very generous with practical real life examples including approximate costs. The seminar provided the right direction of where to start to publishing your own book."
- Linda Greguric
"So I found the entire seminar enjoyable to attend. It's great knowledge to file away and a fabulous base for learning more about the publishing world."
- Karen Ranga
"The presenter was excellent and very informative, had a relaxed style and answered people's questions very well."
- Michelle Bainbridge
"Geoff was totally in command of this subject and he packed LOTS of information into a short amount of time."
- Pamela Thorne
"The information was very practical and it answered a lot of questions I had on self publishing."
- Annalaura Luna
Travel Writing
"I loved that the tips and tricks of the trade really were useful and that Geoff was kind enough to share them. Having him as a new networking partner to run ideas by has also increased my motivation! Thank you so much!"
- Monique Kinerson
"I really enjoyed the seminar. As a complete novice to the writing game, I found the hints and tips great - its helped me start to formulate all the travel stories I have collected over the past few years into pieces that might be of interest to an editor somewhere!"
- Alison Fox
"The presenter was excellent - very prepared, great examples, and very patient with our questions. I left satisfied that everything I had hoped to get information on had been covered, and with some very solid examples as a future guide."
- Alyson Warnock
"It was exactly what I was looking for and catered to all levels of the group. I thought it was very informative, concise and the presenter was very honest about the industry. I felt I got a lot out of it and will definitely be using that information."
- Caitlin Wright
"The presenter was very entertaining. He was very informative and I walked away with lots more ideas."
- Caroline Kerr
"Lots of good quality information from someone who not only knows how to do it, but who actually does it. There was nice relaxed atmosphere, it was good value and I really enjoyed it."
- Jill Farmer
"Just wanted to write and say I attended the Travel Writers seminar. It was fantastic. The realistic life experiences provided gave us all insight into the truth about the industry and what we should expect. He was completely honest and I can not wait to get stuck into my freelance writing.
"I will definitely be recommending and also attending other writing courses in the future. The course was also great for meeting other contacts in this industry and professionals who can assist with editing etc."
- Nicole Beatty
"The presenter had real knowledge and experience, this was displayed by anecdotes and real life stories of success and failures in travel writing."
- Tim McKeon
"Being an absolute novice but having an interest in travel writing, Geoff provided insider knowledge and helpful information and tips. I now know where to start and feel enabled to do so. Thank you."
- Gabrielle Martin
"The honesty of the presenter and his insight into the travel writing industry was invaluable.
"I believe the information as useful and practical for travel writing (which is quite distinct from other forms of writing). I did a longer travel writing course with another training provider and probably learnt more in one night than I did over 6 weeks with them."
- Nicholas Corbett
"Geoff provided a lot of great tricks-of-the-trade that you would be hard pressed to find gathered together anywhere else in such a tightly presented package."
- Timothy Fife
"It was exactly what I needed."
- Fiona Doig
"More informative than I expected, Geoff had heaps of hints, info and tricks of the trade that he shared with us. He knew his stuff and he shared it with us. I started as a blank piece of paper and now there's a few words on it!"
- Lisa Schofield
"I feel motivated and I feel like I have the knowledge to know where to start now."
- Belinda Gosbee
"The information was to the point and considered all parts of the industry. I have been given the opportunity to understand new pathways for a career in Journalism."
- Sophie Johns
"I now have the inspiration to go out there and get started! While I know the industry is a tough one, I feel more positive that I have something to offer."
- Paula Donaldson
"The seminar went straight to the point, with no waffle. It contained just the information I wanted to hear. The presenter kept discussions within the group relevant and brief, but sufficiently long to satisfy members who had asked questions.
"I have a list of things to do next, which I didn't know about before the seminar. I have ideas now about how to start and how to structure my approach to travel writing."
- Wendy Toogood
"Knowledgeable speaker with great advice, lots of experience and a willingness to give us support after the seminar. I'm excited and enthusiastic about getting started with travel writing!"
- Stefanie Thoms
"Content was practical and speaker, experienced and happy to help."
- Stephanie Bennett
"The advice was the most valuable of all things in a course: practical. I can take what I learned and apply it immediately."
- Steven Lewis
"Packed full of helpful information from someone who's current in the industry. It will, with a bit of luck, launch my travel writing career."
- Pamela Thorne
How to get your book published
"Geoff knows his subject well - he clearly 'lives' it - and is very enthusiastic about it. He was able to respond to participants' particular questions, while still covering the course content in the designated time. Lots of good information and spot on for the needs of the group.
"This (seminar) has given me the confidence to put my work forward"
- Kathryn Andersen
"The brain dump of information was just what I needed. I now know where to start the journey on getting my books published."
- Ray Buschmann
"Two highly engaging hours filled with specific insights from someone who has done this themselves and is involved with the process each day.
"I have a much greater understanding of the publishers point of view and I am now very clear about the next steps to take to get my books published. I am also absolutely inspired to get on with it!"
- Katie Whiffen
"I came away with ideas running rampant in my head, this has continued since the seminar. It's helped me think more creatively and clearly about different ideas I have and where they could lead. I really enjoyed it."
- Belinda-Jane Latta
"I am inspired and have a structured approach that I can now follow to get to the point of publishing a book. The presenter provided relevant and extremely useful information."
- Tina Cicolini
"I learnt several important factors about ways to approach publishers for publishing. I'm really glad that I went to the seminar as now I will save myself weeks of time."
- Amber Hamam
"Geoff really was engaging, funny and knowledgable. I got more then I expected to get in a two hour period. The seminar was very good and I learnt a lot. It is also enabled me to think about new ideas and possible new angles for my own book idea."
- Tim Lassig
"The seminar was excellent. The information was meaty, useful, succinct and clearly communicated."
- Joanne Hutton
"The seminar created much needed confidence regarding approaching publishers and how to present ourself/our work to a publisher."
- Alan Blake
"Geoff was very approachable and had excellent advice. All of the questions I had in mind when I booked the seminar were answered in one way or another. Geoff knew the industry really well."
- Eric Grayson
"I really enjoyed the seminar. I feel more confident about the stories I have written and more confident in approaching publishers."
- Roenna Baker
"Great info told in a no nonsense, real yet inspirational way. Well organised, extremely good value and very comprehensive given short duration. It was very well presented, very helpful. I've been able to draft a strong book proposal today. "
- Michael Neaylon
"Positive and inspiring with specific tactics and notes on all of it was provided as well as generous offers of follow up support."
- Linda Bates
"Geoff was incredibly informative. He answered everything I wanted to know without me even asking."
- Megan Hughes
"Very informative - received a lot of very useful and relevant information. I now have a solid understanding on how to approach a publisher and how to submit a book proposal."
- Gail Rast
"It was hands on and the presenter stopped whenever necessary to answer questions but kept the seminar rolling. It was great, moved with the flow of the participants while remaining a very nice blend of casual, informative and useful."
- Diana Santamaria
"I had a list of 15 questions and Geoff answered all of them as the course progressed. I know so much more now about getting a book published and what to do to improve your chances. Geoff had a lot of knowledge and was interesting."
- Sofia Tsiamoulis
"It had all the right information and it was delivered in a very professional, no-nonsense manner. I can now formulate a step by step plan with regards to writing my book."
- Kevin Harper
"The presenter gave general information to everyone and then gave specific info depending on participants' book topics. It helped me to break down the big picture into smaller, workable steps. I don't feel as overwhelmed by the idea of publishing."
- Celest Nygaard
"The presenter was excellent - inspiring and willing to assist where he could. I can now see the finishing line for my project which is great, and I have a much more practical idea about how to proceed."
- Damian Rocks
"Geoff was obviously an experienced published author. Good to hear the real story, how hard it is, how much money writers make and tricks to get to the editor. Excellent."
- Gen Yan-Colebourn
"Geoff was informative and amusing. The information was very useful and will be easy to apply. I have more ideas on where to go to take the next steps in attempting to get my work published, and how to approach publishers."
- Nicole Taylor
"The presenter was realistic, informative and to the point and most importantly inspiring."
- Shelley Burgess
"The seminar dispelled a great deal of the publishing myths. It allowed me to plan my course of action over the next few months in order to get my book published. Thank you."
- Shane Horsburgh
"I now feel confident that I know how to approach publishers professionally with book proposals"
- Belinda Marsh
"You need to read the market before you start even contemplating send a book to a publisher. Geoff took all the romance out of publishing your book and I enjoyed his business approach. Very realistic."
- Emma House
Media releases that get results
"It has helped me think about where I want to go in my career, and how to get there. It gave me a much clearer understanding of the PR industry and the purpose of media releases as opposed to other written documents."
- Caroline Tapper
"It was great seminar - we covered a lot of information in a short period of time. It was particularly useful to learn about targeting media releases to the relevant media and understanding how the media works."
- Kristin Romanis, The Centre for Volunteering
"The seminar on Media releases that get results was great value. The presenter took the group through every aspect of media releases, starting from what a media release is, onto how to write it and which editors/ journalists to target.
"The seminar was fun and we took home a folder that has become a great reference when writing my press releases. The main benefit for me was to understand how to correctly structure the press release so that it catches the editors attention and is presented as worthwhile information, not just a ‘sell’."
- Rebecca Tauer, Executive Computing Pty Ltd
"The seminar Media releases that get results was very comprehensive and easy to understand. The ‘take-home‘ workbook was particularly valuable because it contained useful guidelines and real life examples of media releases."
- Marilyn Britton
"The seminar Media releases that get results was practical and informative. The fact that it was offered to a small group meant that information and suggestions were personalised, and the ensuing discussion was both comfortable and helpful.
"A comprehensive folder of resources has been a ready reference since the seminar. I look forward to attending further Sydney Writers' Centre seminars."
- Tracey Edstein, Editor, Aurora
"The seminar was a good holistic view of media release writing. It was like a full day course crammed into a four hour session, but still meaningful and good value. The structure of the course and materials facilitated learning and taking notes. The most useful aspect was the structure of media release writing.
"The presenter was engaging and endeavoured to answer all questions. The course materials were used well and many examples were used instead of just one or two."
- James Elton, Media & Communications Officer, Parramatta City Council
"The seminar was informal with plenty of room for participant input. It was well worth attending."
- Prue Sepp, Lake Macquarie Council
"The seminar was practical and interactive. It provided useful tools for my role."
- Lynn Varvel, Inala
" Excellent ideas and polished presentation. It was well-researched and it was great to hear ideas from other attendees. I'm looking forward to attending another workshop."
- Mary Jane Trujillo, Mount St Benedict College
"The seminar was fantastic - I would highly recommend this to others."
- Carolyn Dean, Inner Focus
"The presenter made everything interesting. She fit a lot into a short space of time, but I did not feel like I was cheated for information at all. Having a small group was also very beneficial to the learning process. The presenter's knowledge was invaluable."
- Danielle Keech, Bathurst City Council
"The structure of the seminar was very good - and the use of examples was really helpful. It was very professional, very well organised - extremely beneficial."
- Katy Wood, Voiceless
"The whole day was kept interesting by the fact that many of the points that were made were backed by entertaining real life stories that really painted an exciting picture of the media world.
"The folder was very handy enabling you to follow the points being made easily and also a good reference point for the future. The seminar was to the straight forward and to the point. The presenter has clearly had a lot of experience in the field so I feel like she passed on the lessons that she has learnt over the years, but summarised them into half a day!"
- Verity Lomax
"Your media release writing course has paid off for me in terms of publicity. I could not be happier. Thanks for the great advice. It works!"
- Atlanta Camilleri, Recovery Coach
"The course content was very relevant to my needs. I now have a clear understanding of where to go from here without feeling as if I was stumbling in the dark."
- Sue Hamilton
"It was very useful and the examples were great. Very clear and practical advice on the skills of writing media releases. The seminar has raised my confidence in my ability to write an effective release."
- Leanne Torres
Editing essentials
"There were some really useful tips especially for business writing about getting to the point early. The style manual is really clear and concise - I will be creating something similar for use in our organisation."
- Jill Dorey
“It was exactly the course I was looking for presented in just one day. The booklet is also a fabulous tool to take home.”
- Bianca Luykx
"The workshop on Editing Essentials facilitated by Katrina Lobley was an eye-opening experience into all the dos and don'ts of writing. As a journalist and PR consultant, the material learned in this course can be applied to all aspects of my job including media release writing, article writing and proposal writing.
"Thank you Katrina for teaching me to have confidence in my writing, and to Valerie for providing an educational facility that's worthwhile. I look forward to attending many more courses."
- Dionne Moskow, Journalist & PR consultant.
"I found the course to be well structured and useful. The length of the course and the content covered was ideal. I thought Katrina was lovely and she was a great tutor.
"The commonly misused words guide and the idea of putting together a house style guide most useful."
- Lyndall Druery
"I really enjoyed learning the tips on grammar, punctuation and publications. Katrina was fantastic. She was very approachable and made the seminar interesting and fun. Her years of experience and passion for writing really shined. I would recommend this to anyone involved in writing or editing."
- Lauren Brown, Elixir Health Care
"I felt that the seminar was certainly worthwhile. I appreciate having the folder to help me take the information away. I can now keep it near my workspace for revision."
- Lara Oram
"Katrina is one of the best presenters I have ever met."
- Martin Hadley
"The presenter was very good, she allowed everyone some input whilst keeping the course on track. She was very interesting, her obvious experience and occasional anecdote brought life to the seminar. It was well organised and professionally run."
- Fiona Brown
"It was useful and interesting. Katrina was great!"
- Shelley Hepworth
"I was very impressed with everything. I thought Katrina was excellent and covered every question possible."
- Carla Hickey
"I enjoyed the knowledge and experience of the tutor."
- Fran Strachan
"I will definitely take some of the information I learned and implement it in my field. It was an easy flowing day with lots of good tips."
- Jessica Rubinstein
"The seminar was extremely informative and well-structured. Katrina was really engaging and I've learnt valuable tips for both my office work and personal writing skills."
- Kate Brown
"The information was presented concisely and was relevant. The whole class was entertained. I'm finding that my editing skills have definitely improved and I'm picking errors up much more easily and quickly."
- Sharlene Henderson
"The course was outlined very well so that the information was disseminated in a lively, succinct and relevant format. The small class was also great - allowing everyone to feed off the other participants energy.
"My general approach to writing and editing other people's work has improved I now have a better understanding of the questions you should be asking about a piece of writing"
- Penny Calvert
"Katrina explained the essential elements of editing in an enjoyable and easy to understand manner. Katrina allowed for all participants to be actively engaged. I feel more confident about my ability to revise and improve my written work."
- Lynette Cook
"I feel that already I am looking at the structure of my writing and analysing how I can make it more succinct and interesting to the reader."
- Lana Montgomery
"I attended your fantastic editing course with Katrina Lobley in February 2008, which was very helpful. [The result is] an edited book that I co-edited about a very important subject … child protection."
- Linda Moody
"I have some confidence! Before the course I was feeling as though I couldnt edit/write and didnt know anything. I have confirmed that I know the basics and when my edits are changed in the workplace, it is because of stylistic changes, rather than my lack of knoweledge! This is a real benefit! I also look forward to showing off my hard copy editing symbols!"
- Catherine Andrews
"Katrina's passion for editing is visible through her presentation skills."
- Casie Gambrel
"The small exercises. they helped clarify what the presenter was talking about. I can (hopefully) make my writing more succinct and it has helped me understand better ways to edit my writing."
- Kimberly Taylour
Grammar and punctuation essentials
"I took this course as if I was going to undertake a general health check-up. I was glad to know that though I did not have major problems, after taking this course, I feel much healthier! Deb's course has refined and sharpened my grammar and punctuation. Now I can be more polished in my writing and when I read good books/articles I can learn and pick the good and correct styles from them because I now understand better the role and function of grammar and punctuation."
- Fourteena Pusaka Dewi Halim
"I enjoyed the seemingly limitless amount of examples Deb had on offer at the drop of a hat. Grammar and terminology have a tendency to confuse me with overwhelming detail, so relating it back to actual examples was indispensable."
- Chris Deal
"The instructor knew her stuff! And when she saw some of us having trouble understanding it she either went back over the material or made it easier for us to follow. For me, it made clear some of the grammar I had already learnt but was very fuzzy on.
"As an aspiring editor this course has given me a brief glimpse into what that profession requires. It has also shown me that I can really learn and use this knowledge, especially if there was more time for it to sink in."
- Mark Quisumbing
"I feel much more confident with the basic rules of grammar and punctuation that once baffled me."
- Sunni Hughes
"Deb was fantastic. She really knows her stuff. I now have a better basic knowledge of grammar and punctuation."
- Stephanie Johnston
"The presenter was easy to follow and friendly. Deb was always happy to answer our questions and tackle any grammar issues we were facing in our everyday line of work."
- Marissa Loe
"It was a great refresher and I came away feeling empowered and enlightened."
- Bronwen Stinson
"Course was very well run, Deb knew the subject material backwards and taught it in a way that made it entirely accessible to me, I wish I’d done the course 15 years ago."
- Karl Melrose
Professional business writing
"Excellent presenter who tailored course to participants' needs. 3 AHA! moments made it worth the fee alone. The take-home course notes and style guide are an excellent ongoing resource."
- Claire O'Connor
"The course has given me the methodology to revise the structure of our proposals, to make them more focused and meaningful. Overall a practical, informative course and great value!"
- Fiona Brown
"The presenter was very good. She had a good style and was very knowledgeable about business writing."
- Sharon Collins
"I though the presenter brought a wealth of industry knowledge."
- Wei-Khing Seow
"It's been a week since the course and I have been drafting management reports. Already, my manager has commented that I have improved my writing skills. Thanks to the presenter."
- John Lawson
"I found the course terrific. I can apply the ideas and methodology directly to the various forms of writing I am required to do - from academic to work reports."
- Jan Campbell
"This course had provided me with the right skills and direction to be able to improve my professional writing. The seminar was held is a pleasant relaxed atmosphere, which made the day enjoyable."
- Jason Leung
"Great environment, relaxed speaker. Took away some important points on writing that will be useful in my day-to day job and came away with more points on effective writing."
- Davina Poletto
"To be honest I enjoyed the whole thing. Mel's teaching technique is really good. She is able to discuss different aspects of writing in an inspiring way. I appreciated how she took the time to find out what each person wanted from the course and addressed those things. I am already changing the structure of the way I write my paragraphs to improve their meaning."
- Soraya Vantilborg
"I immedately applied what I learned on reports and contracts that I was working on the change was incredible. Mel was a great facilitator. THANKS."
- Adrian Espedido
"It was fun and light hearted. Mel was a fantastic and inspiring presenter. The handbook is a great tool to take away."
- Valentina Stojkovska
"I have learnt a lot of great tips for Professional Business writing in the work place and found the course very beneficial. A big thank you to Mel."
- Sally Cadwallader
"Mel had fantastic experience and knowledge, as well as being a good presenter and structuring the day well. The materials she provided were great."
- Helen Townley
"I really enjoyed yesterday's seminar. Of course this implies a big thanks to Mel as well.
"This was my fourth course at the Sydney Writers' Centre and they have all been great. I always come home so inspired and full of energy, it's fantastic. The material presented is very good and helpful, the presentation is excellent and I also notice that the Centre always manages to attract a very interesting and stimulating crowd."
- Kees Bakhuyzen
Blogging for business
"Perfect pace to learn and be stimulated - great presenter and teacher. Dragged me out of the dark ages of social networking knowledge to be talking the talk!"
- Sally Berry
"Relevant - fun presentation - dynamic - enthusiastic presenter. Lots of new motivation for marketing ideas for the business."
- Miranda Corkin
"The presenter Steven Lewis is an expert in his field that made the seminar relevant and up to the minute."
- Kandy Russo
Writing for the web
"I'm excited! I've got the inside scoop on the all the crazy stuff that makes writing for the web so different to the printed word. Work just got easier. And way more fun - in a word nerdy kind of way."
- Meghan Thompson
"The presenter was lovely, very friendly and helpful. I left the session feeling very inspired! My understanding of the topic has been improved and my horizons broadened."
- Michelle Hooker
"I have gained more confidence to go forward and write content for the web without the doubt as to whether I am writing correctly."
- Debbie Ansell
"Grant led a lively workshop in which participants became fully involved. He successfully integrated the excellent seminar materials with participants' individual work situations/experience, creating interesting models for discussion and analysis. It gave me a solid sense of what's needed to write effective websites and introduced me to the necessary parameters. The workshop also gave me confidence that I'm in fact not so far off the mark with some of the skills I already have."
- Ruth Tofler-Riesel
"The content was relevant to my current situation. I am able to take with me additional skills and a 'things to do list' that will enhance our web site. I now have a better understanding of how to present information for our current and future customers."
- Karen Pritchard
"Grant made everything very clear and related it directly to working situations. I have started my own music blog and am applying for web content jobs with the confidence of knowing what the techincal aspects of the job will involve."
- Sam Taylor
"I found the presenter Grant Doyle very informative, new his stuff and a great 'easy to listen to' style. The manual will be a great asset to review what we covered."
- Josephine West
ONLINE Feature writing for magazines and newspapers
"Just a short note to say thanks! Within a month of completing your online feature writing course I’ve had my first article accepted for publication in ‘Finally at 40 - Life Begins’, with the promise of more work. I now have the confidence (and skills, thanks to you) to approach some bigger mags. My journey begins…"
- Steve Wilkinson
"It was a fantastic insight into the world of feature writing, I learned much more than I thought I would. It has given me the confidence to take my writing further."
- Aoife McGee
“It was great being able to do it in your own time and being to pause and rewind to listen to parts over. Question and answer format was great too, really enjoyed getting feedback from Valerie.”
- Susie Wicks
"The most enjoyable part of the course is the ability to get the course done without hassles. The online concept is fantastic, and makes the course accessible. Also the fact that the course is delivered by a professional - who is also accessible. Valerie has earned her stripes, but speaks as though she is next to you, not a cut above."
- Tim McKeon
"The flexible format was excellent. Valerie's presentation style was easy to follow and her practical insights into the industry were really valuable."
- David Kennedy
"My knowledge and skills base as a writer has improved dramatically. Valerie gives all of that 'insider knowledge' that can make or break. I really enjoyed doing this course online. I've done other distance education but this was different. It didn't feel like there was any distance. The ability to post questions and have them answered the same week was great. I also found yet ANOTHER use for my ipod!"
- Brooke Andrews
"I've learnt practical tools to make my writing better, more interesting and more descriptive, and I now feel much more confident when being asked to write."
- Rene Chambers
"It has surprised me how much I have learnt from this course in such a short time. The course exceeded my expectations."
- Gail Andrews
"Thank you for your online 'writing for magazines and newspapers' course. Since completing your course I have been published in Insight magazine and French Provincial, with two more proposals accepted for the end of the year. I have also been sub-editing for a small women's magazine.
"Although I had writing experience before your course, I didn't believe that the magazine industry was possible to break into. The language you use in the course is very empowering and the advice is practical."
- Amanda
"I wanted to write and tell you some exciting news since I finished the online feature writing course with you. The idea I put forward as my pitch in the course (a travel story on Griffith in NSW) has since been published in The Sydney Morning Herald Traveller section and I have another travel story coming out in the September issue of Coast and Country Magazine.
"I've also been signed on as a regular freelance contributor with the Herald Sun Home Magazine, something that has meant I am now freelancing four days a week! It has been an amazing few months since I finished the course and I have to say, none of this would have been possible without your incredible skill and advice. So, many thanks once again for such a fabulous course, it really has changed my life!!"
- Penny Harrison
"I am writing to let you know that I can now call myself a professional writer! I submitted a piece for online publication ActNow, they published it last week and I will even get paid for it."
- Stephanie Johnston
"My work reads better and it seems to have rhythm and flow. The course has made my work more complete, showing me what I need to add/improve on, such as interviews, case studies etc. The access to excellent materials is convenient and simple. The best thing is being able to go back to the lectures and listen to them again and again."
- Chris Fitzgerald
"The emphasis on the structure of articles was very useful, particularly around transitions, case studies and quoting interviewees. I could see how to easily make improvements to pieces I had written in the past when I re-read them after the course."
"I thought the presentation was very clear in terms of emphasising important points and not assuming any prior knowledge. I enjoyed the example articles and the commentary interspersed from Valerie were helpful."
- Simone Brandon
"I enjoyed Valerie's bright and, obviously, well informed presentation. And her energy and enthusiasm for the subject. I feel I know have an understanding of the techniques I've been needing. The online delivery was easy and convenient. I downloaded each module onto my mp3 player and took it on the bus, to the gym, wherever I was. Great stuff."
- Fran Tann
"The course equipped me with all the practical information I needed to get started in my new career as a freelance writer. I learned how to develop and pitch appropriate ideas to editors, techniques for improving my writing plus countless insider tips that have helped me behave professionally in my dealings with magazines and newspapers. I believed I was a reasonable writer before I did the course but doing it has enabled me to get published.
"I am now working as a writer and recommend 'Online Feature Writing for Magazines & Newspapers' to anyone wishing to do the same."
- Persephone Nicholas
"I completed Valerie's online course in November 2008. By Christmas, I had secured my first freelance writing job! I was completely amazed at how quickly it all happened. Without Valerie's support and encouragement and of course the user-friendly online course, I would never have had the confidence to apply for this ongoing freelance writing position. If you follow Valerie's expert advice you really can't go wrong."
- Jo Harris
"I loved how practical the course was. I’ve studied writing at uni but it was all theory and no practical. I feel like I have a lot more confidence to go out and pitch – knowing exactly what editors expect."
- Maraya Bell
"Easy to follow, informative, credible, positive, objective, realistic. The course dispelled many of my reservations and confirmed many of my perceptions about feature writing. I was able to work around my schedule – listen in the car or while walking the dog."
- Con Calagis
"It was easy and convenient. In my busy work schedule it meant I could listen at my own time, respond in my own time, and when necessary, catch up in my own time! Thanks Valerie for sharing your work with us"
- Wendy Haynes
www.wendyhaynes.com
"I now have the confidence to start writing feature articles and more importantly I now know where to begin with the process. I would look forward to every Monday morning to hear Valerie's response to our comments/questions. It was as good as being in a 'real' classroom', if not better."
- Anu John, Kabul
"The most enjoyable thing about the course was the feeling that you were getting a real insider's look ... and a lot of great, genuinely practical tips at how to break into the market from someone who's actually qualified to give them. I feel like my writing's improved, and also my eye is now sharper in recognising information I need to further my attempts a lot better than I could beforehand."
- Nicole Forster
"The most enjoyable aspect of the course was Valerie's extensive practical knowledge and honest feedback. It makes the step to doing this as an (add-on) income earning activity very tangible and less abstract."
- Maurizio Floris
"I loved Valerie's delivery - I could hear the genuine passion for her work in her voice. This was infectious and enhanced my learning. Valerie's feedback was excellent and spot on. And thanks for taking the trouble to show us how to use a phone recording device. This is the same attention to detail which was apparent throughout the course. I have lots of practical knowledge which is new to me. I know how to tackle writing an article and how to improve it. Valerie has shown me a high standard to strive for.
"I liked the flexibility and convenience which meant I didn't miss a module. Even better with the online course, I could replay the audio to take notes or repeat key points. The handouts and examples were carefully selected and perfectly illustrated the points of each module."
- Marion Nicolson
"The content and manner in which it was presented was excellent. A great learning tool. It has suprised me how much I have learnt from this course in such a short time. The course exceeded my expectations. It was very convenient to be able to do the course when it suited me."
- Gail Turnham
"I feel more confident as a writer and that a previously missing journalism skill set has been added to my resume. The most enjoyable aspect of the course was the freedom of being able to do the course any time of the day or night. I loved the technology and the flexibility of the delivery."
- Sonia Menon
"I'm now much more confident about approaching editors. The most enjoyable aspect of the course was Valerie's feedback on our pitches. The best thing about it was that I could do the course in my own time."
- Tami Dower
"As a 'newbie' to writing, I now have a complete structure and 'how tos'. Since completing the course, I have written an e-book, produced a manual, made a training course, and I'm now up to the marketing of my product! The product is a 'business in a box' - how to be a Wedding Planner. Your course has helped me write my book and produce the training manual for this."
- Cathy Morrissey
"The depth of information imparted was great, I learnt so much from Valerie. I have more confidence to submit articles to magazines. The course was very comprehensive and yet with the online delivery there was no feeling of being overwhelmed. I could access the information whenever I needed to, even at 2am!
"[In terms of how to improve the course] ... You can't improve perfection."
- Lee Franklin
"I am a writer for a newspaper and I lacked the confidence even to give freelancing a try. Valerie made me feel as though i could achieve my goals."
- Ilona Marchetta
"The techniques: lead-in lines, the structure, the language, the inclusions... it was all fascinating and opened up a new world. I read feature articles now in a completely new way. Learning about lead in times, approaching editors and other practical issues when considering magazines and papers was also enlightening. Extras like the info on recorders was appreciated.
"The online delivery was easy and convenient. In my busy work schedule it meant I could listen at my own time, respond in my own time, and when necessary, catch up in my own time! Thanks Valerie for sharing your work with us. I greatly appreciate the skills and challenges that features writers have."
- Wendy Haynes
"I have a clearer idea of the news industry and how to present my work to editors, magazines and newspapers; I learned how to make my work more relevant and effective. I enjoyed the structure of the course: the audio-modules with downloads; the way Valerie presented each topic in a simple and effective way; the possibility to listen to the modules over again during the week. It was very convenient and easy.
"The best thing was being able to download each lesson and 'homework' and go through it at your own pace and according to your own schedule. I could follow the course despite living outside Sydney."
- Camilla Napoli
"I'd like to write for magazines, but had no idea where to start - now I feel I understand the whole process much better. I thought the content and tutor were excellent. I'm planning to make a start as a writer, which I wouldn't have had the confidence to do 5 weeks ago."
- Susan Thorne
"I had my first article published within two months of finishing and sold an article soon after!I became more confident approaching editors and became motivated to actually do something every day. The online delivery was great for a mum of two children under two! I could balance a toddler on one knee while breastfeeding a newborn and still listen in."
- Christine Armstrong
"I now feel confident to approach editors with story ideas, knowing I'll be doing things right and not make a fool of myself by not following the unwritten 'rules'. I enjoyed the valuable real-life examples and insights from someone who's been there and done that."
- Micky Stuivenberg
"I have learnt practical information about feature writing and now feel confident in the knowledge that I can get out there and have a go! The content of the course was very interesting and practical - which is what I wanted. Also, the convenience of doing it online was great. The best thing was being able to commit to doing the course while fitting it in around other commitments."
- Kate Stevenson
"It was easy and convenient to do the course online, as it allowed those of us in an isolated area to untertake the course. The virtual classroom meant we could run off all sheets for each week and to take notes from Val's comments. The price was extremely competitive."
- Mary McDougall
"The course was very well organised, well presented, I loved being able to do it at my own pace. I got very practical information and hints; it was great to have a course presenter who works in the field."
- Kerstin Pilz
"Even being totally new to the world of Freelance Writing, I've learnt much more than I thought I would in the course. I'm looking forward to putting it into practise now! Valerie was fantastic, the content was terrific and the convenience of doing it online was great. I loved being able to do it at any time of the day or night which suited me."
- Melissa Anderson
"Doing the course has stirred up my creative juices and given me some new thoughts about the future and my career direction. The best thing about the online delivery was being able to fit it in with other commitments."
- Jane Collis
"Valerie's course has given me a thorough understanding of working with editors in Australia and has made me aware of the freelance opportunities that are available. I'm sure I have a better chance succeeding in this market now that I'm armed with this valuable information."
- Michelle Balmer
"I have been able to adopt my learning to my day job and will look to get a story published by the end of the year. That is, one outside of the corporate publications I currently get published in. The online delivery was very easy - in my opinion it couldn't have been made any easier."
- Kerrie Hawkins Waine
"I started the course having little experience in writing and have ended it with knowledge of how to construct quality feature articles. The delivery of the course online allowed me to undertake it in the comfort of my home at my pace. The mp3 audio files and notes were excellent. I feel incredibly grateful to have had access to such an experienced and knowledgeable presenter - thanks Valerie!"
- Barbara Noller
"I feel I have the skills and confidence to present my work as a professional. I have had one article accepted and have been asked for 3 more. I enjoyed the practical useful information from someone obviously skilled and passionate in the field."
- Alison Lee
"Valerie has given me the tools and know-how to confidently start writing and submitting my own stories. I loved that this course was online. I can't wait until Feature Writing 2 is online. Thanks Valerie for all your information."
- Gabrielle Martin
"Even though I have a background in journalism, I got a lot of practical information from the course which I can definitely apply
to freelance writing in the future. I particularly enjoyed the modules 'Know your market' and 'Sell your work and see it in print'. I now have a
plan of attack in terms of pitching story ideas to newspapers and magazines.
"It was so easy and convenient! I definitely felt part of a 'classroom' even though there was no face-to-face interaction."
- Belinda Zammit
"I'm most impressed with the online course offered by Sydney Writers' Centre. Responses to student work are considered, informed and honest. Most importantly, there is a high level of respect afforded to each student in the manner these responses are presented. Suffice to say, I now know so much more about feature writing than I did five weeks ago, despite a lifetime of reading many different kinds of magazines, newspapers, online articles."
- Robyn O'Connell
"It has given me a place to start. I've always thought I'd love to write feature articles for magazines but never knew where to start. It now seems like more of a reality rather than a pipe dream!"
- Elaine Ballantine
"I believe my writing skills have improved and I am also now armed with practical knowledge about the business of feature writing.It was very easy and convenient to do the course online. I was actually surprised by how much it suited me. I didn't originally think I would get as much out of it as a face to face course, but I think I got even more. The best thing about this mode of delivery was the fact that you could download the audio and listen to it anytime. Also, the fact that you can listen to it again and again in case you missed something."
- Samantha Baker
"Valerie Khoo was a brilliant presenter and her personality came across in her teaching which made the course thoroughly enjoyable. It has taught me some skills on how to write better and how to pitch ideas to editors."
- Joanna Greenway
"I've had an opinion piece printed in our local newspaper as a direct result of targetting my writing to their style by following Valerie's advice. The course was extremely practical. No fluff. I also enjoyed the welcoming environment. You were encouraged to ask any question and were not made to feel inadequate in any way. The online delivery was extremely convenient.
"I looked forward to each Monday. I knew what to print out, what to download and could get myself organised so that on Tuesday I was ready to listen to Valerie."
- Lisa Hampson
"I loved listening to the audio modules in my own time and found the handouts interesting and informative. It is nice to know you can access this kind of course even if you don't live in a big metrpolitan centre! I now have a greater understanding of how to structure and pitch strong feature articles, making them relevant to the publications I want to focus on.
"The mode of delivery was seamless - you can access the Modules at any time and re-play them at your own convenience. Valerie's style is personal, chatty and informative and posting comments is easy."
- Jacqui Walker
"I have learned a lot of 'insider' information, and I feel more confident in my quest to get published."
- Sean Wiid
"I knew nothing about writing or journalism before this course and the learning curve over just 5 weeks has been amazing. I enjoyed the presenter's real life experiences and ideas. And also the fact she transitioned into a writing career from another career... and made it all seem possible! The best thing was I could complete it in my own time. If I was too tired after work to do it all in one sitting, no problem, I could finish later during the week."
- Anna Day
"I now have a much better understanding of freelance writing, including how to structure articles and approach editors. I really enjoyed how the course focussed on the practical aspects of freelance writing. The content was very down-to-earth, rather than being purely theoretical."
- Carol Howard
"I loved everything about the course! It was exactly what I was looking for when i enrolled. It was clear, practical and thorough. The information was fed to us at a great pace, in an order that made sense. The opportunity to ask questions was great - I would never have had the opportunity to ask someone with that amount of experience and knowledge all those questions i've been stewing on! I found Valerie completely inspiring - she was the best part of the course I'd have to say. Every time I listened a new module I had a smile on my face. She truly made me believe that being a feature writer was possible. I've benefitted in a thousand ways! I know things now that would have taken me years to learn otherwise. I think the knowledge and skills Valerie taught us are invaluable."
- Velvet Garvey
"I've had all of my questions answered about getting into freelance feature writing and now feel I have the confidence and knowledge to approach a publisher with a story idea. I think I found each module equally enjoyable ... I particularly enjoyed Valerie's presentation of each module and her audio feedback to comments and questions each week which I found almost resembled a real life classroom situation. I also enjoyed the opportunity to interact with virtual classmates (and to meet one of them in real life) and I found the assignments very useful and practical."
- Wendy Barilaro
"While I like to think I can write, I'm the first to admit I suck at research and pitching ideas to editors. After this course I feel a lot more confident about doing both. I definitely enjoyed the information Valerie gave us all - not just in the 'lessons', but also in the feedback. To get information like this from someone who's actively practising what she preaches is fantastic. (I put 'lessons' in quotes because they didn't really feel like lessons at all. It felt like we were just sitting down and talking about freelance writing. Kudos to everyone involved.)"
- Bill Harper
"I enjoyed the wealth of knowledge that Valerie has, and her willingness to share. Valerie has a straight forward approach, so there is little room for wondering where you stand! The online delivery was fantastic. The best thing is being able to do it when it suited me. I have three kids and a husband who does rotating shift work, so attending in person is near impossible, but this has afforded me the wonderful opportunity of learning as much as I have."
- Diana Taylor
"Learning how to stucture my writing and having more insight into the media world has been a great benefit. The information was practical and very informative. Valerie has a down to earth approach to tutoring which makes the course user friendly."
- Kathy Newman
"The presentation and content of the course were fantastic! I couldn't fault anything. It was as though Valerie was in my study teaching me face to face. Her style was friendly and each lesson was relevant and brought to life with interesting case studies. I learnt so much and am looking forward to the next online course. I just wish there were more online courses available!"
- Silvana Wiggins
"The feedback on my writing was invaluable. I also now know how to pitch to an editor & how to look at making a living doing this. Loved the examples provided- really made you start to look at features and magazines in a very different way."
- Joanne Tracey
"This is one of the few courses that I have done which was really worthwhile. Usually with a course, you find that they give you a textbook and you work your way through it. It's invaluable to get into Valerie's head and learn all the insider tips of an editor. You want to learn from someone who has several years experience working in the business."
- Gillian Nalletamby
"I found the whole course to be interesting and relevant. It covered such a huge amount of material in a relatively short time and helped us all believe we have what it takes to pursue writing as a career! It has made me realise that if I choose to pursue feature writing as a career or part time interest I can do it! But I need to put in the hard work and time in order to get there - we now have the skills but need to make it happen for ourselves."
- Kristy McCormick
"I have studied many tertiary subjects via distance modules and wish they had a spoken word component to them as this course did. I feel that my writing is quite good and may be suited to feature writing, however I didn't know how to structure, reference an article, or how to contact a magazine before this course. All this information has been great."
- Lucy Warden
"Valerie shared her experience and insight generously and I feel like I have done a two-year English course in 5 weeks. I learnt a lot about the process of writing, and I especially liked the audio responses to our questions."
- Heather Smith
"The content was extremely good and relevant and I could do it at the time most suitable to me. The course has given me a strong framework on how to take my feature writing forward and develop it into a viable incoming earning option in the future. The mode of delivery was excellent. It was great to be able to complete each module at a time that was suitable to me and my lifestyle (particularly with a small child)."
- Suzanne Van Hese
"I loved how practical the course was - I've studied writing at uni but it was all theory and no practical. I loved knowing the exact steps you need to take. I feel like I have a lot more confidence to go out and pitch - knowing exactly what editors expect."
- Maraya Bell
"The course has given me the tools and confidence to enter this market. I have no doubt that I will get something published.I found it very interesting to learn about how to analyse mags, and how to go about writing in the relevant format. Overall, the course provides great insight into the industry."
- Tamzyn Dorfling
"I know have a much clearer idea of how the industry works, what a good article consists of and how to get published. I enjoyed the flexibility, feedback from Valerie, and the amount of information I learnt in such a short time."
- Ben Harding
"I now have more confidence and heaps of useful information which is there for the keeping. The course is so manageable and the encouragement given is inspiring. This online delivery was easy. It gives the opportunity to 'sit in on the class' at a time that suits, which is so important in busy lives."
- Christine Huntdale
"I've a clearer view on how feature articles are be written, where to get information and ideas and how to eventually get myself published out there."
- Justina Goh
"Whilst I have participated in other courses this one has got down to the nitty gritty and given me a different insight into how to start writing for money instead of free as I have been doing."
- Carole Lyden
"Completing the Sydney Writers' Centre Online Feature Writing course gave me the confidence and skills to branch out on my own as a freelance writer. The five-week course provides a comprehensive but practical introduction to the world of feature writing, and this, coupled with Valerie's upbeat teaching style and real life examples, gives students a tremendous insight into the industry. I highly recommend the course for anyone who is even remotely interested in writing for magazines and newspapers"
- Nicole Richards
"Just wanted to let you know Cosmo Bride magazine accepted my "8 Negotiating Tips Every Bride Needs to Know" article! It is slated for publication and I've even been paid already. Woohoo!
"Thanks heaps for the wonderful practical information in the feature writing course. It was not only amazingly useful for my future freelancing aspirations, but perfectly timed to help secure that Cosmo Bride gig. And it was great that with your advice, I was prepared for the "Oh no, what comes next?" feeling when faced with creating my own invoice, registering an ABN and negotiating rights.
"Thanks again for all your help and I'll definitely be doing more Sydney Writers' Centre online courses in future!"
- Beck Doyle
ONLINE Creative Writing - Stage 1
"I just wanted to send Cathie, Valerie and the team a VERY BIG THANK YOU for coaching me in our online Creative Writing course. The information I received during the course has been invaluable and gave me the tools I needed to become one of the 28 winning co-writers of James Patterson’s Chain Thriller AirBorne.
"I still cannot believe the news… but as I have had emails from Random House and my name has been posted on Facebook, I had better get my head around it!"
- Kylie Williams
"I am so pleased you put this together!! I have a two year old who I am home with four days per week so the minute he went down for his midday sleep I would dash for the computer. I found the presenter's voice and sense of humour a delight to listen to and Pamela's exercises fun.
"It was great to be able to stop the recording and go back where I missed something or was too slow in taking notes and the handouts will be a great reference for later on. The availability of the online course to us 'out of towners' was great. There is not always a lot available when you get out from the main cities. Also, being able to listen to it at any time of the day was very convenient.
"Thank you to everyone involved in getting this course up and running, it was just what I was needing to do."
- Nicole Stenson
"I enjoyed the clarity of the course material - both the recorded lectures and the handouts. Also, feedback on assignments was consistently helpful. I now understand some key tools used in creative writing in a formal sense - previously I was aware of them without fully understanding them.
"The online mode of delivery provided me with a non-threatening way of getting involved in learning about creative writing at my own pace."
- David Andrews
"It was very easy and convenient to do online and the handouts were good and you knew exactly when to look at them, it was all very well organised. I loved how I could do things in my own time."
- Ruby Rebic
“The delivery was excellent and the handouts were the right quantity. The critique session was excellent - I now have a better idea and concept of the writing process. I have a lot to learn and now have some direction."
- David Walker
"The written feedback was excellent - personalised and detailed. The rewriting and redrafting process has been a really valuable insight.
"It was an advantage to listen to the tutorials as many times as you wanted. Revisiting everyone's work after thinking things through was also useful."
- Sue Sim
"I have learnt to approach writing as a craft and not simply to expect that inspiration will ooze out my pores whenever I sit down to write. I am also better acquainted with the creative writing process."
- Karen Hamilton
"Yes, very easy and convenient, and could be completed anywhere and anytime within the week. It was very straightforward to download the modules."
- Dale Whybrow
"It was certainly easy and convenient. The biggest benefit is simply that I can do it when I have the time without having to travel to Sydney (from the Netherlands)."
- Elfi Gilissen
"I feel my writing has improved dramatically because of this course. I enjoyed it so much it was a shame when it was complete. It was easy and convenient. The best thing was that I could do the work when it suited me, I work best late at night when all is quiet."
- Kimberly Starr
"I'm more inclined to continue writing - gaining confidence through greater awareness of structure and elements of fiction. The online delivery was really simple. Online meant I could do it - I am not in Sydney. And we can do work whenever it fits in with everything else."
- Marguerite Perkins
"I enjoyed the honesty and no fuss appraisal by Cathie of the assignments, tempered with words of encouragement. It has made me very aware of current level and the improvement needed. The convenience was the best factor, being able to schedule it into my normal daily activities."
- Howard Frankland
"The course material was easy to understand and comments on assignments were very constructive and positive"
- Keryn Gribben
"The online course was easy and convenient. The mode of delivery allowed me to monopolise my time more efficiently. I could complete the modules in my time without the travel time. Valerie's delivery in the MP3 versions were exceptional. Cathie's expert advice provided feedback that was a valuable source of information to continue into the future."
- Shenelle Whetu
"The most enjoyable part of the course was the opportunity to get feedback on my writing and the opportunity to read other students writing and read feedback on other students' writing. Also, the opportunity to ask questions and to re-work writing.
"I have improved my writing and I now know what I must do. I have received honest and consistent feedback and I am encouraged to do more."
- Philip Harmer
"It was so manageable for someone with a busy life. The assignments were great learning opportunities.
"The course has given me the confidence to believe I can have a go at writing. The opportunity to read not only your own feedback on assignments but also the feedback of others helps to compare yourself."
- Christine Huntsdale
"My writing has improved immensely. I now know how to structure my writing and how to structure my story for publication. I didn't have to arrange babysitters and could do it at home at any time that suited."
- Karlene Dalbraithe
"I liked having an audio tape that I could replay if needed. The prompt feedback by Cathie each Monday was very satisfying. I learnt heaps, and that's as an English teacher. I actually made a start on my writing and I think I have a much more realistic appreciation of what is involved, especially when it comes to drafting."
- Sharon Welgus
"The course was well presented and lots of fun. It was tailored towards someone at my level and it was well set out in a structured way that helped us grow on what we were learning. I found the course absolutely wonderful.
"It was very easy and convenient to do on the online course and it suited my working life. I could never have attended the Sydney Writers' Centre because I live too far away and it (the online course) made it possible to do something I have wanted to do for such a long time."
- Penelope Leary
"The content was better than expected. It was clear, concise and provided me an opportunity to learn. I liked being able to listen to parts of the dialog over and over again until I 'got it'."
- Lillian Garcia
"I feel my writing has improved dramatically because of this course. The best thing was that I could do the work when it suited me."
- Kimberly Starr
"Just loved it! Very easy to do, to understand and to apply. It's opened my eyes to the more technical side of writing that I knew was there but couldn't put my finger on."
- Jackie Randall
"Getting valuable feedback from someone as astute and experienced as Pamela was very insightful. I learnt a lot in such a short period of time. I feel I have a much stronger understanding of the technical side of writing and a very healthy respect of the hard work it takes to be successful.
"This was a fantastic way for me to do the course - I have three very small children and live outside of Sydney, so I would not have had the opportunity to participate if it were not for online. I loved the fact that there was no pressure to do it at any particular time within the week (again with three young kids, I can't always fit things in where I like, so a bit of flexibility is a must)."
- Diana Taylor
"This course was easy and convenient, it was great to be able to read my class mates work and the feedback for them from Pamela. I am now learning to think and write as a writer."
- Mae Ashworth
“I have had an amazing 5 weeks. I have learnt so much in such a short time. I want more. My writing is so much tighter. I look back to my first submission and know what to do with it now. This has been a fantastic course. I have been able to fit it into my life. There has been no pressure, just support and understanding. Thank you.”
- Angelina Cimino
"Just wanted to say I thoroughly enjoyed the course ... a bit sad it's over actually! I found the MP3's very well structured, interesting and the information therein will prove invaluable I'm sure.
"I feel inspired, motivated and much more prepared to tackle the task of fulfilling my dream of writing a novel. The tools and advice this course offers are priceless. Thank you!"
- Barbara Parks
"I learnt a lot about characters, structure, plot and I'm continuing to improve my work. The best thing about the course was that I could listen to the presenter whenever I wanted to (early morning is great for me) and I really enjoyed reading others' contributions.
- Andrea Howell
"The writing tasks were stimulating and enjoyable. I have more confidence in my writing ability and have developed some excellent ideas for future writing."
- Emma Vlaski
"My writing has improved. The online course was very convenient because you could complete the course when you had the time. No driving, traffic or being late!"
- Concetta Mifsud
"It was great getting feedback from a REAL professional writer."
- Christa McDermott
"There was a good balance of structure and creative stimulus. Pamela's constructive and supportive feedback was great. The course has made me think about the way I write and given me some specific ideas about how to improve."
- Veronica Hamer
"The information about writing was very helpful. The assignments and feedback were great. I have a much better idea of how to go about writing creatively."
- Ian Thompson
"The content was better than expected. It was clear, concise and provide me an opportunity to learn. I have a better understanding of the writing process. As I read I am now looking at the mechanics of the story, not just the entertainment factor."
- Lillian Garcia
"I have learned some good prompts for finding a place to start as well as how to correctly structure a piece of writing. The course has also inspired me to just write ... previously I would sit for hours, motionless at my computer screen, trying to think of something interesting to type!"
- Nicola Aspinall
"I am now taking a different approach to any future writing I do. I loved that I could do it in my own time and pace. The presenter was excellent. Cathie's feedback was very honest which was great."
- Heather Noakes
"I have more of an idea about writing as a whole, not just one aspect of it. I looked forward each week to a new module and a new assignment."
- Maria Conway
"I learnt a lot about structure, which is what I needed, and many other things. I loved getting feedback on my work."
- Narelle Segecic
"I have learned invaluable techniques. The best thing about the course was that I could do it in my own time and at my convenience."
- Roslyn Clasby
"I found the materials and the comments from the instructor very helpful and this has certainly helped to improve my writing."
- Jean Moore
"I have learnt heaps and I feel more confident in writing something of my own."
- Kate Lawson
"I have a much better understanding of the importance of structure. The best thing about the course was being able to listen whenever I wanted and to hear a real person's voice."
- Patrice Connelly
"It's the first time I have tried to write a piece of creating writing since school, and I have learnt so much about structure and planning. I really liked being able to download the tutorials so I can listen to them more than once. This is a great benefit over trying to take notes in a classroom."
- Sarah Browne
"I'm more encouraged to start writing my own piece. I can find inspiration relatively easier as I know how. I now know how to edit my own work and read other people's work as a writer."
- Adeline Kintono
"I learnt more about character building and description. It was easy and convenient. The best thing was being able to pause and pick it up a little bit later."
- Lloyd Jones
"I've been able to think about my writing more clearly as I work on a project. I really enjoyed the lecturer and getting feedback on the exercises; didn't take a lot of time to do and were very useful!"
- Lisa Chirio
"The online mode was very easy! I am currently overseas and it was so convenient to be able to log in at anytime, download the module and listen to it at my leisure."
- Keryn Thiele
"I have finally been able to understand the writing process, and what it takes to create an effective piece. The course not only helped me to understand writing but also reading, I will never underestimate written material again. My enjoyment of reading has increased!"
- Gueza Chavez
"I loved doing the course online because I could repeat anything I didn't understand over again."
- Melisa Quigley
"The knowledge from the lectures around the overall structure of story and development of character has been great. In a way it has been good to put alll of this into such a compressed time-frame because it brings it together well and provides opportunity for exploring the details of particular components further. The other great benefit was the confidence gained through posting the assignments and receiving comments."
- Linda Carruthers
"I've learnt a lot about writing description, scenes, characters, plot, structure, point of view, "show, don't tell" - the whole process!"
- Jennifer Carr
"I feel I have learnt much and it has given me the incentive to write more."
- Ardis Rogers
"I have learnt a lot about the publishing industry and how to enter it. I've also gained valuable insights into structure, character formation, point of view."
- Margaret Coghlan
"Having an editor run this course gave me a very different perspective and I have learned a number of things that have improved my writing."
- Sharon Luttrell
"I have learnt that there is a lot of untapped creativity in everyone and that it is just a matter of making time to practice. I loved the flexibility of being able to complete the course at a time that worked for me. The feedback was excellent and really constructive - I found myself looking forward to receiving feedback each week."
- Katy Sheppard
"I feel confident that I can attempt a creative writing project."
- Heather Caulfield
"I now see that, with much redrafting and editing, it is possible that I could produce something readable and sellable. The online delivery was convenient. I loved being able to put the modules on my iPod and listen at lunchtimes."
- Theresa Bint
"I felt like I was really learning and growing as a writer. In fact, because of the supportive and nurturing tone of the resources, I actually felt able to call myself a writer for the first time."
- Deborah Martin
"It's opened my eyes to the more technical side of writing that I knew was there but couldn't put my finger on. I just loved the online format! It was very easy to do, understand, and apply."
- Jackie Randall
"I enjoyed the structure of the course and the pace of the learning as well as the prompt feedback."
- Audrey Frances Dargan
"I know a lot more about structure, scene and summary than I did before."
- Kimberley Jane Pryor
"Those course has enabled me to focus on what I want to write about."
- Kay Lorraine Wulf
"Very helpful and informative course. Has pointed me in the 'write' direction with my novel!"
- Aoife McGee
"I've learnt new skills for my writing. And, most importantly, I've started writing again!"
- Marie Nelson
"I now feel motivated to write and feel that maybe I have something to offer to world ...We will see. The best thing was that I could do the course sitting in the comfort of my own home, sipping on a red wine!"
- Karen Howe
"I feel as if I now have a good grasp of the industry and what it will take to become a published writer."
- Kelly Lappin
"I approach story-telling and my school lessons with more focus on the structure and engaging the reader/students. I enjoy hearing and reading stories more because I'm aware of the different dimensions that make good story, especially the structure."
- Callum Shipley
"I learnt a lot in such a short period of time. I feel I have a much stronger understanding of the technical side of writing, and a very healthy respect of the hard work it take to be successful."
- Diana Taylor
"There is a lot of good information packed into the modules over the 5 weeks."
- Barry Neilson
"I have a better understanding of the structure needed to produce a piece of writing. The online mode was user friendly and I could complete it at my own pace."
- Kirryn Mills
"I enjoyed the assignments and having a deadline was motivating. The section on structure and dialogue was very helpful and I feel my writing has improved especially in these areas."
- Stephanie Allen
"The biggest benefit for me was learning about structure - I hadn't been able to differential structure from plot until it was explained during this course."
- Judi Ashworth
"I know now a lot more about the technique of writing creative fiction, and have what will be useful resource materials for when I seek to have something published."
- Peter Tiffin
"I've gained a solid knowledge in the basics of writing and the course has given me the grounding I need to gain confidence and really know if I can write."
- Jody Watkins
"I have recognized the difference of reading as a "reader" and reading as a "writer". I think this will stay with me for ever."
- Jenny Wilson
"I really loved doing the assignments so that I could begin to apply what we were learning throughout the course. The feedback from Pamela was honest and useful and has inspired me to hone my writing skills more and more. I have learnt so much about building character, approaching structure and creating engaging dialogue."
- Jacqui Walker
"It was very easy and convenient to do online and the handouts were good and you knew exactly when to look at them, it was all very well organised from your end."
- Ruby Rebic
"I now understand some key tools used in creative writing in a formal sense - previously I was aware of them without fully understanding them. I really enjoyed the clarity of the course material - both the recorded lectures and the handouts. Also, the feedback on assignments was consistently helpful."
- David Andrews
"I have learnt to approach writing as a craft and not simply to expect that inspiration will ooze out my pores whenever I sit down to write. I am also better acquainted with the creative writing process."
- Karen Hamilton
"The most enjoyable aspect of the course was the way it made me motivated to write, and the way it made it seem possible to be a writer. I particularly enjoyed learning more about structure, and the hard facts in the last module."
- Dale Whybrow
"The delivery was excellent, the handouts were the right quantity. The critiques were excellent."
- David Walker
"The written feedback was excellent - personalised and detailed. The rewriting and redrafting process has been a really valuable insight."
- Sue Sim
"I feel like i have a better technical grasp of how to begin to write well. The best thing is being able to do the course whenever you like during the week, the flexibility of that is great."
- Leone Becker
"I am a much more confident writer and I understand the writing process and all that is involved much better."
- Natalie Watson
"I have had an amazing 5 weeks. I have learnt so much in such a short time. I want more! This course gave me permission to spend hours writing. It gave me joy and it gave me focus. It gave me 'me'. My husband just looks at me and smiles now because even after I have worked all day I still want to keep going... I just want to write, write, write!"
- Angelina Cimino
"I've learnt how to analyse writing in terms of intent, structure, flow, instead of just as a piece of (excellent, good, interesting etc) fiction. As a result of this, I have been able to lend this insight into my own writing, to be able to focus on what I want the reader to take from my work, instead of just writing for fun."
- Monique Blocki
"I've learnt that it is important to make every word count, have believable characters and scenarios, have a good balance between plot and character and that good structure is one key element to effective fiction writing."
- Liza Eusebio
ONLINE Writing Books for Children
"This course was full of practical exercises and insightful readings. The Online Writing Books for Children course with Judith Ridge clarified many aspects of the writing process and the specific needs of a younger audience. As a busy mother of two I found the online mode flexible and convenient."
- Kirryn Mills
"It is very convenient and I had no issues with the website. The format works very well. I enjoyed being able to download lectures whenever I wanted and living in the ACT online courses are the best way for me to access this sort of knowledge. I have taken on board some of the comments about the piece I'm working on, and I'll be able to incorporate the theory about structure and plot into my own stories."
- Lisa Chirio
"I really enjoyed participating in the writing tasks set for each module. They challenged me to play with new ideas, voices and genres. The audio recordings and printouts had a great deal of information which I can easily refer back to whenever I need. I found the tutor's responses invaluable. I feel I have truly benefited from this course, the tutor and students were encouraging and insightful. My vision is now much clearer on how and where to begin."
- Amanda Francey
"I liked the feedback from Judith very encouraging and constructive. I also enjoyed reading attempts my by fellow classmates. I am now confident of putting pen to paper. Most of the mental missing pieces about writing have fallen into place."
- Kanwar Plaha
"The most enjoyable part of the online course for me was the flexibility. I could listen to course information at a time that suited me, and I could revisit the information later to take-in something I might have missed. I have a better idea of basic story structure from the course. And feedback received was encouraging and constructive."
- Ken Williams
"I really enjoyed the tutorials and handouts. I found the assignments challenging and fun and reading the work of other students was inspiring. Judith's feedback was honest, constructive and motivating. After completing the course I have a clear idea of how to progress several of my writing projects. The instructions about character building, sub-plots and writing from different perspectives were particularly helpful. I'm looking forward to Writing for Children part 2 coming online (hint hint)."
- Stephanie Allen
"The most enjoyable part of the course for me was the feedback from my tutor. It was so helpful in developing my writing to hear her feedback, not only my own work but that of the other students. The course has really given me the confidence to send some of my work to publishers. I now know what I really want to do ... WRITE."
- Michelle Campbell
"The ease of listening to audio when convenient is a definite plus. It has really stimulated me to keep going. The tutor's thoughtful feedback gave good ideas for improvement and was very encouraging. Judith Ridge did a great job with chatting to the class as though she were in the room. The hand-outs were all helpful and applicable, in particular all the info about publishers and new writers support sites on the web."
- Christine Huntsdale
"The delivery of the course modules was excellent. The feedback concerning our work was something to look forward to. There is a lot more to writing children's stories. The course has opened my eyes to just how involved this form of creative writing is.
"The online delivery allows you to listen to the podcast over and over again. You can do it any time you like and it's not like you have to rush off and physically be there on time. I've loved every minute of it!"
- Stewart McLellan
"[I enjoyed] The spoken feedback and being able to be part of other's work. As a beginner I have been introduced to all areas of the process and produced something myself. I loved doing it online as I could log in and do course at times it suited me."
- Julie Holmshaw
"I looked forward to Monday mornings and the start of a new module. Each task was a new challenge that I really enjoyed attempting. It was good to be able to read the other classmates work and just get an idea of how other people worked through the tasks. I have truly learnt a lot from this course. I had a manuscript I thought was ready to go. However, since completing the course I have re-written the whole piece. I have come away with a lot more understanding of what I need to do to write better.
"It was very easy and convenient. I liked the idea of downloading onto my mp3. I found I listened to each module three times each week. It was great not to be committed to a set time to do classes. I could learn at my own pace and take as much or as little time as I needed. Perfect!"
- Julie Lynch
"The weekly assignments were superb and forced me to consider many different aspects of writing a story well whilst getting feedback on my own work. I am now able to write dialogue more effectively and can understand the important concept of 'show vs tell' and have tools to further improve my skills in these and other areas.
"The best thing about this mode of delivery was the convenience of participating when geographically a long way from the Sydney Writers' Centre. It was easy, convenient, flexible and well sturctured."
- Cherri Ryan
"I enjoyed the weekly assignments with a quick response from the online tutor. I now have an idea for a YA novel that I didn't have before I started the course. It was good to know you could access the modules easily in your own time, and also to get beneficial information from the tutor's response to other student's work."
- Joan Salanitri
"Having the opportunity to read classmates' writing and ideas and the teacher's feedback for all of us. It was good to interact with classmates and the teacher about writing and ideas. It was refreshing to step out of my own mind and gain knowledge from others. I could stretch listening to my lesson to a full week, instead of a full 2hrs+ in one night. And I could choose when I would schedule to do it."
- Ivee Caburian
"The audio programs were really good. It was great reading other people's work and seeing how they approach assignments. It has given me new motivation and inspiration to write. It made me realise I might be good at different types of writing. The best thing was I could make use of time in the car (I work and have 2 small children so am very time-poor).
- Jodi Webb
"Feedback was great, the range of assignments set was informative and made me really think about my story, characters, structure etc. I now have an outline for the story I've alsways wanted to write. I could log on anytime and go back to previous modules if needed."
- Debra Russell
"I've learned so much from doing the Writing Books for Children Course. I had an idea for a book but knew it was lacking in substance and structure. The skills and knowledge I have gained have given me confidence and filled me with enthusiasm. Our last assignment pulled everything together for me and before I knew it, I was writing a draft for something I felt had real potential. I really appreciated Judith's choice of passages in the handouts, and enjoyed listening to Valerie's audios. "
- Philippa Siebert
"The fact that you could download the online course material is superb. I'm sure I'll listen to it many times. Amongst the most enlightening material was the real life example of editing provided by the oh so lovely Pamela Freeman. Pamela's generosity with her material (on this and the creative writing course I took with her earlier) is tremendous. I've benefitted from the course by having a professional review samples of my work and give me real world feedback on what's good and what needs more work."
- Craig Priddle
"I enjoyed taking the Online Writing Books for Children at the Sydney Writers' Centre recently. It was long awaited for me to do this course on line and I thoroughly enjoyed the information, the pace at which I could study from home and the feedback from the tutor. It was great to have an expert critique your work and guide you onto the right track with your writing.
"My online peers were also helpful and were a learning environment in themselves. Being able to read their different points of view, see the uniqueness of all writer's styles and to learn from the tutors comments on their work was invaluable. I have gained confidence in my ability to write for Children since doing the course as it increased my skill, enlarged my creativity and encouraged me to keep writing. I would enjoy it very much if they were to put on an advanced course to follow in the new year to keep the skills sharpened!"
- Cher Thomas
Audio workshop
Reinvent Yourself - So you want to be a writer ...
"I just wanted to let you know that I bought your 'Reinvent Yourself' Audio Workshop and absolutely loved it. It really gave me a lot of food for thought, and excellent prompts."
- Nicole Forster
"I completed the Writing for newspapers and magazines in January this year. Since then I have also purchased and currently using the Reinvent Yourself audio program. I'm just writing to let you know that these two courses have really helped me focus on my writing and encouraged me to write more frequently and with more focus and structure.
"With the help of both courses I have now made writing a part of my everyday life, rather than just a hobby that I do when I have time. I feel that my confidence is building and I'm moving forward with my passion. Thank you. I could not have made these simple changes without your guidance."
- Natalie Devlin
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