Understanding the Publishing Landscape

A clear overview of traditional, hybrid and self-publishing routes – how they work, what publishers look for, and how to choose the right path for your goals.

WS1/PL 1 hour Online or in person

Query Letters That Get Noticed

Step-by-step guidance on writing a professional query letter, from structure and pitch to common red flags. Includes examples and a simple template writers can use immediately.

WS2/QL Submissions focus

Writing a Strong Synopsis

Demystifies the synopsis and shows writers how to summarise plot, character and theme in a clear, focused one-page document – including the ending.

WS3/SS Includes worksheet

Building Compelling Worlds

Explores the essentials of worldbuilding across genres: setting, culture, history and rules – with tools to avoid info-dumps and keep the story at the centre.

WS4/WB All genres

Ask the Publisher – Live Q&A

A candid, supportive session where writers can put their questions directly to a working publisher about submissions, contracts, editing, marketing and more.

WS5/QA Interactive

Bespoke workshops

We can design bespoke workshops for your cohort – from genre-specific craft to student-focused publishing overviews. Ideal for universities and active writing groups.

Custom By arrangement

Foundations of Fiction (C1/FF)

A six-week introduction to the essentials of fiction: structure, character, voice, worldbuilding and early editing skills – perfect for new or returning writers.

6 weeks Workbook included

Getting Published (C2/GP)

A four-week course covering the full submissions toolkit – from understanding publishing routes to writing query letters, synopses and planning your next steps.

4 weeks Submission workbook

Build Your Book (C3/BB)

Guides writers through the early stages of developing a book-length project: idea, outline, character arcs, worldbuilding and sustainable writing routines.

6 weeks Planning templates

Editing Your Manuscript (C4/EM)

A six-week introduction to practical self-editing – from structure and pacing to line-level clarity and style – helping writers create a focused revision plan.

6 weeks Revision workbook

Writing for Children (C5/WC)

A four-week course exploring picture books, early readers and middle grade – with guidance on age-appropriate voice, character, plot and themes for young readers.

4 weeks Children’s focus

Custom course programmes

Courses can be tailored for specific cohorts (e.g. Creative Writing students, community projects or intensive summer schools). Talk to us about what you need.

Online or in person Fully customisable

How it works

• Six weekly one-hour Zoom sessions with a BTP author mentor.
• Guided themes including story foundations, voice & style, editing techniques and next steps.
• One detailed written critique (300–500 words) on a sample of the mentee’s work.
• Light Q&A support between sessions, within clear boundaries.
• Optional end-of-programme showcase or anthology contribution.

Who it’s for

The programme is ideal for:

• Students on Creative Writing, English, Journalism, Humanities, Media and related degrees.
• Emerging writers (teen or adult) working on fiction, poetry, memoir, YA, fantasy or hybrid forms.
• Writers who would benefit from one-to-one guidance, accountability and real publishing insight.

Pilot cohorts for universities and partner organisations may be offered free of charge; ongoing mentorship places are priced per mentee with institutional discounts available.

Benefits for partner groups

• Priority booking for workshops and course sessions.
• A dedicated contact within Big Thinking Publishing.
• Help with social media and a light-touch website design review.
• Access to a growing library of free guides, worksheets and writing resources.
• Use of BTP branding and reach to help grow your membership.
• Tailored advice on developing your group’s writing activity.
• An annual, professionally edited group anthology with full cover design.

Partner programmes are free to join – you only pay for any workshops, courses or print projects you book.

Universities, libraries & organisations

We regularly work with universities, libraries and community organisations on:

• Guest workshops and live “Ask the Publisher” Q&A sessions.
• Multi-week course programmes for student writers.
• Pilot mentorship cohorts and employability-focused writing support.
• Anthology projects and celebratory showcases.

To discuss a partnership or affiliate arrangement, get in touch and tell us a little about your writers and goals.

Workshops

Standard workshop sessions are priced at:

• £50 per one-hour workshop for your group.
• Online or in person (where feasible).
• Includes slides or handouts and follow-up resources.

Courses

Guide prices for multi-week courses:

• 4-week courses – from £120 per person.
• 6-week courses – from £180 per person.
• Discounts available for institutional cohorts and partner groups.

Bespoke & mentorship

For custom programmes, intensive weeks or mentorship cohorts:

• Bespoke workshop & course design priced on enquiry.
• Mentorship scheme pricing available for institutions.
• Pilot and funded projects may allow free or reduced-cost places.

Writers & group leaders

We support:

• New and returning writers who need clear next steps.
• Emerging authors working toward publication.
• Writing group organisers planning a year of activities.
• Librarians and community workers running creative projects.

Free resources & mini-guides

Alongside paid workshops and courses, we’re building a library of:

• Printable guides and worksheets.
• Checklists and handouts for group facilitators.
• Mini-guides such as Start Strong: A Guide to Query Letters & Synopses.

You can explore these on our Free Writing Resources UK page.