Spotlight on Creative Writing: Short Stories


Course Length: Six weeks
2025 Schedule: Fridays with Jenny Wells at 10 am CST/4 pm UK (note, this class begins 27th June)


About Summer Courses at Dreaming Spires

Our summer classes are great for homeschoolers who are preparing for high school in the US or exams in the UK, a chance to sample a subject before doing a deep dive for the coming year.

All courses will meet an hour weekly for six weeks. There will be the usual reliance on living books and some homework to ensure good participation, and at the end a certificate will be awarded.

About Spotlight on Creative Writing

Write for joy. Write to discover. Write because you can.

Join us this summer for a fun, imaginative creative writing course packed with playful prompts, quick writes, and themed weekly sessions designed to get your ideas flowing.

Each week, we’ll explore a different theme through a variety of writing games and short exercises — perfect for sparking creativity and developing confidence. The focus is on live class engagement, with optional exercises to try out between sessions (no homework required!).

You’ll have the chance to shape a short story across the course, with gentle feedback from both peers and your tutor, and lots of encouragement to stretch your voice, experiment with style, and enjoy the process.

This isn’t about perfect grammar or polished essays — it’s about creative freedom, exploration, and having fun with words. Whether you’re new to creative writing or already scribbling stories in your spare time, you’ll find inspiration and support here.


Who Teaches Spotlight on Creative Writing?

Jenny Wells has a wealth of expertise and academic rigor: with a degree in History of Art and English from the University of York, as well as an MA from the Open University, she possesses a deep understanding of interdisciplinary studies and visual culture. Drawing from over fourteen years of teaching experience at an independent Oxford sixth form college, Jenny has instructed students in History of Art, Film Studies and English GCSE and A Levels, and has served as an A level examiner for History of Art. Her dedication extends to supporting students with specific learning needs, reflecting her commitment to inclusive education. Having been a homeschooling parent herself, Jenny understands the importance of fostering creativity and critical thinking skills as part of a holistic approach to educating. See all courses taught by Jenny