What’s it like to learn with AWC?

The format was perfect for me. I loved the weekly video lessons with Val and Nat's feedback on the assignments. I had wondered if it would be written feedback and was happily surprised at the consolidated videos, allowing us all to learn from each other's writing and feedback tips. I didn't feel 'alone' at all and also would have found it challenging to commit to attending live virtual sessions during the day. The daily pages have also been a real treat, giving myself permission to write every day. There's a block every day in my calendar moving forward too, so it will continue to happen!

Nat is so enthusiastic and genuinely interested in every story. She is clearly a very talented writer/editor and I loved the way she acknowledged what was good/great, and also added tips and suggestions that everyone could benefit from. I'm thrilled that grammar and punctuation was highlighted as being important - critical even - as I'm often teased about the similar position I take.

I feel more confident to keep writing and scheduling time for it now, rather than thinking about it and wishing for it to happen. My stories often turn into poems when I start to write, which has been lovely, and I feel I'm better equipped now to consciously choose poem or memoir-style.

The cadence suited my life and work commitments. The video format felt personal, both the lessons and the feedback and they were 'short and sharp', very pragmatic. Hearing from other writers, published authors, was interesting and heartening. In summary, I loved it all, thank you.

I was attracted to this course because I not only wanted to learn more about the fundamentals of writing picture books but to do so in a collaborative and motivating environment.

The tutor gave really great feedback with constructive criticism and advice on how to improve our pieces. I really liked the questions she asked the chat and how she got us to speak up a little more.

I particularly enjoyed the assignments. I loved how the guidelines were centred to specific elements and techniques of writing rather than the theme or topic. It meant we had such freedom in writing what we felt resonated with us and building up our folio.

This course definitely had an impact on my life because it simply gave me the chance to write stories and it taught me the elements that make good stories. It made me realise that I really want to make this work!

The AWC has really great courses and assignments. I love how there's so much thorough content, but you can go at your own pace.

The lecturer has the unique ability to explain complex concepts in understandable terms. The notion of 'show don't tell' is a good example of this. What I had previously encountered as difficult concepts were made clearly and confidently. I found the whole approach very refreshing.

The tutor's comments were always helpful, positive and enlightening. She was always encouraging with her comments and I never detected any negativity in her approach to evaluating my work. In my view she did an excellent job.

I now know what I am talking about and trying to do. Any writing I now do has become much more enjoyable. In chess I used to ask what do I do now. In writing I know what to do now.

I would say -'do it' - and I hope you enjoy the course as much as I did and that you benefit as much from the course as I did.

Margaret was amazing and gave great feedback. I always walked away feeling encouraged and inspired.

Being held accountable for my progress was the thing I got the most from out of the course.

I feel much more confident in what I am writing and more relaxed and willing to share with others. I wouldn't have been able to do this if it wasn't for the course.

AWC is so friendly and encouraging. They give you the insight into the industry and writing and the belief that you have a chance (without sugar coating that it will be hard).

My first traditionally published book was released earlier in the year, and though I've been doing a few presentations at schools and events already, I wanted some ideas and tips to amplify my talks.

Nat is a fab presenter, which I already knew, so of course I really enjoyed listening to Nat talk about all things presenting to kids. It was great to have her insights and knowledge. It was also incredibly professional and well-organised.

It has helped me figure out my purpose with presentations, which was part of what I was struggling with, so that's been a huge help!

There was so much information included in this course, it seems to be very in-depth, and it was great to hear from an established travel writer in different modules.

I enjoyed going through all the travel articles in detail and breaking them down into their components. I can now see how an article is created.

I have much more direction in where I want my writing career to go. I feel prepared to go out and pitch articles.

My 'aha!' moment was at the end when I fully realised that I can be a travel writer now that I know a lot more about the industry and how it all works.

AWC courses are very in-depth with excellent instructors who have industry knowledge and experience. The coursework isn't overwhelming and it was great to work at my own pace.

Bernadette was fantastic. The feedback provided, suggestions and overall thoughts were all really encouraging. Bernadette created a safe community in which to share my work and for that I thank her enormously.

I learned that it's ok to let others read your work and take constructive feedback. And that it might take several drafts to really develop a story and that's ok! The first step is just to write the first draft and not get caught up in making it perfect - that's what the 2nd and 3rd drafts are for.

This course will give you the confidence to start writing.

My first manuscript is currently with my copy editor so I need to be prepared for the next stage (fingers crossed!)

I've completed several AWC courses and I know what to expect - exactly what you advertise. I'm so pleased I found AWC early on. I LOVE your courses. You've helped me so much along the way. Thank you.

The content is so clear and interesting (even the legal bits!). And Valerie makes you feel like she's helping a friend.

I understand the industry so much better now. Far less intimidating than before I did the course. I will watch the course several times to ensure terminology is completely familiar.

Publishers are willing you to be the next best thing. They're hoping for someone new to join their team. Makes sense. Thanks for pointing it out several times! It's made the whole pitching process less intimidating. Still intimidating but manageable. Thank you.

Your courses deliver what they promise. Love the 12 month flexibility. 100% recommend AWC!

This was a fantastic course that has given me the confidence to pursue writing creatively again. I enjoyed how the content was always delivered with "But this may not work for you because there is no right way to write", and appreciated the positive, uplifting comments throughout the theory. The reminder that your story is unique because it's yours, even if it's based on a well-loved trope, was something I needed to hear from someone in the industry.

Bernadette gives feedback in a way that is uplifting and encouraging, and anything constructive she gave was to help you improve. I really liked it when she workshopped some of the submissions, because she didn't take away anyone's voice/work, but helped improve it/give it more flow. She never tore anyone down, and was always genuine in what she said. I appreciated how she also shared some information about publishing/editing when giving feedback, too.

I want to do the next course in the program Novel Writing Essentials with Bernadette as the tutor. I feel like she has so much to teach, and I appreciated her approach.

I have the confidence now to pursue writing a novel. I've told people in my life I want to write (this is something I've kept close to my chest, and only ever expressed when I was a kid and full of so much confidence). It's positively changed my relationship with writing and made me feel more comfortable sharing it with close friends. They're all excited for me and are my cheerleaders. :)

AWC is a genuine, encouraging place. The people here want you to succeed. The theory is not discouraging; it gives you tools and suggestions, but it doesn't disparage different approaches to writing at all, which I appreciate. The Write Direction Zoom webinar really proved that to me, especially with how Pamela was very friendly with people and recognised students who were online and remembered their work. That left an impression on me, and it's one that made me realise that AWC really is a community, and I'm glad to be a part of it now. :)

I had a great time, and I'm disappointed the five weeks are up!

I write Fantasy and Sci-Fi. My action scenes feel bland and flat compared to others I have read. I wanted to improve them to a comparable level.

It had never occurred to me before the course that character emotions and state of mind play an important part in an action scene.

AWC is a great place to learn the intricacies of writing without having to leave your home.

This course was full of very useful information and useful exercises to improve my writing, which I enjoyed.

My writing has improved enormously, and I am much happier with it when I am reading my work.

I learned not to keep going over and over, reading and re-reading everything, editing every little sentence and comma and word. Just to keep writing. THEN go back later, once the story is together. Nothing has to be perfect on the first draft.

I would say this is a brilliant course, where you will learn useful writing skills and if you are dedicated, your writing skills will increase and grow.

I enjoyed Kate's passion, knowledge and generosity. She was honest and shared not only insights beyond mere tropes for each genre covered, she also furthered my knowledge of art/artists. Of course, there were the readings too. Valerie has such a beautiful and expressive reading voice which was the perfect quinella for Kate's choices. I have since added each of the books to my ebook wish list as well as more than a few of Kate's books. An extra expense that I couldn't, wouldn't ever complain about - it's an investment and no doubt delicious pleasures are bound to come my way.

On top of everything Kate presented, she then gives us challenges? How generous and wonderful - I'm looking forward to engaging with them.

Apart from the new reading materials I'm slowing purchasing to further my learning and understanding, I am finding myself noting many of the devices and structures in what I have been reading. I have been invigorated about the whole writing process and the resulting works, be they prose, poetry, songs or even scripts. It's been hard holding off my novel writing but I'm glad I did as I find myself having new ideas and better ways (I hope) to bring it to life. THANK YOU, KATE.

Go for it! You get more than your money's worth.

I wanted to learn more about the basics of Creative Writing as I have had a story brewing for a long while but wasn't completely sure how to put it all together. I had always enjoyed writing and do so plenty in my spare time however never took it too seriously until this story began to build and was constantly on my mind. I had a note book full of ideas on characters, settings, events, backstory and more but wanted to learn more before putting in the work to piece the puzzle of the story together - I read a review on this course and someone said something similar to my situation and that they had found it to be a fantastic and useful course for the starting stages of piecing a story together.

I was nervous about being so openly creative with others, but the course has built my confidence with this and has actually made me feel excited to continue being openly creative.

Pamela was absolutely amazing. Her feedback is valuable and has certainly helped me build my knowledge on creative writing.

I enjoyed all the modules and feel I have gained a lot through them.

I would say that AWC is reliable and supportive in their teachings and that it is well worth giving a course a go as you learn a lot more than just word to page.

Pamela is very lovely and knowledgeable, and I really enjoyed the course content.

Pamela was very straight forward with her feedback which I enjoyed. She would deliver her notes with kindness but not sugar coating anything.

I loved visiting a submission I wrote previously, and writing it from a new POV.

It has encouraged me to continue with writing, and given me great advice and information/handouts to refer back to when needed.

The course is short and sweet, but definitely gives you the momentum, courage and some knowledge to take off from there.

I learned so much!! I have done writing courses before and was in a writers' group for some years; some members have gone on to be published. I was mainly seeking inspiration and discipline with deadlines. I didn't expect to learn as much as I did.

I am amazed at the range of Pamela's knowledge - not just of writing, but of life. She seemed to be able to add to the background of so many situations. I loved her comments on words that are disappearing and her practical approach.

I have been given confidence to write again.

This a great course to teach or reinforce the nuts and bolts of writing, with excellent practical advice and lots of encouragement.

Pamela is clearly very knowledgeable and so happy to share information. She is interesting to listen to. The notes about structure points were very helpful too, and what they all mean, with examples.

This course was so motivating after my second act writing slowed down, it really gets the guns blazing again!

Really well thought out and helpful information, delivered in an easy to digest format.

Love these courses, please keep them up!

A wonderful course. I found the modules extremely helpful, and Pamela's guidance and feedback was phenomenal. It's given me the confidence to keep going, and realise I have a serious chance of becoming a published author.

Pamela is phenomenal. Her knowledge and expertise blew me away - she is obviously so busy and has so many different genres and students to cover, but really makes you feel "seen", and like she is totally invested in your story. Very responsive also. I have so much admiration and respect for Pamela, have just loved being a student of hers once more!

I really loved the audio modules, they hit the mark - particularly when I was losing confidence, they always gave me a pick-me-up and new targets to reach, so I can get on with writing. A great mix of practical and inspirational. And I loved getting feedback on my scenes - always felt "night-before-Christmassy" when feedback was due!

The course has helped me to just get on with it - getting over the self-doubt and putting pen to paper. And the comments from Pamela and the other students have really lifted me, and made me feel that this actually might be a success if I can just keep going! The finish line seems a lot closer!

If you have even the smallest little spark of passion for writing, take one of these courses - you'll turn that spark into a blazing inferno!

Thank you for a fantastic year; I've thoroughly enjoyed this course and can't wait to make it into one of your e-newsletters as a success story... ;)

I enjoyed the good information on exactly how to write the articles as well as the business aspect.

I now have the knowledge and confidence to start working on becoming a travel writer

AWC courses are good quality and informative of everything you need to know to get started.

I appreciate that I have been able to find out so much information about the techniques for writing and all the background to the actual business of Picture Book writing in one course. Also, receiving feedback each week from the tutor was invaluable. I also genuinely appreciated being able to read other people's work and learn from their feedback. It was surprisingly beneficial and humbling to know that other people would see my feedback, as well. We have all been able to learn from one another.

I appreciate Cathie Tasker's depth of knowledge and her honesty in feedback. It opened my eyes to enable me to critique my work better to actually see what was there, not what I thought I had written. I realise that I had to "kill some darlings" and continue to check the believability of my work.

I loved that I felt compelled to write each week to a deadline and that even though I would dread it, somewhat, I actually enjoyed the whole process. I am looking forward to being able to go back over the course again and again to continue strengthen my understanding and develop my skills.

I have read Picture Books for many years as a teacher. I now look at Picture books in a much more knowledgeable way which I hope will serve as continuing research to help me develop more of my own ideas. I also now feel that I have a very strong format for writing more ideas of my own. I feel that I am inspired to work hard to write as many ideas as possible. I also appreciate the understanding of the business of Picture book writing and the protocols involved. Certainly, eye opening.

The Australian Writers' Centre has quality courses that unlock the mystery of writing to enable you to improve your writing craft easily. Not only have I thoroughly enjoyed the Picture Book Writing Course, but I am now going to try my hand at the Short Story Writing Course. The best investment for either a new career or developing and enriching your writing abilities to improve your confidence.

I appreciate the professionalism of this whole course. I have done other courses that only scratch the surface of how to write picture books. This course has dug deeply and improved my whole perspective on the picture book writing process.

I'm not sure exactly what I expected from this course (I purchased it some months before completing it) but I know that I have gained so much more knowledge about the craft of writing.

The novel excerpts were wonderful and illustrated Kate's points perfectly. Kate's delivery style was very clear and easy to understand, and her passion for the craft is wonderful to see and experience. And the amount of content was excellent - not too much or too little.

I just want to dive in and start writing in earnest. I have more ideas popping into my head and I feel a lot more confident moving forward.

AWC has many fabulous, informative topics with wonderful tutors. The learning platform is easy to use and you can see where you are up to in a course.