Creative Writing classes and Exhibition in Whitehall.

An exhibition of Sutton College Creative Writing student work is on display in Whitehall Historic House in Cheam Village. 

The group have been meeting at Whitehall for two terms for ‘Creative Writing for Wellbeing’ classes. 

The classes are a small, mixed experience group, with some beginner writers and some with more writing experience and they get together at Whitehall each week to be inspired by their surroundings.

The work is currently on display and can be seen in Whitehall’s activity room every Thursday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm and some can be seen via the link below too.

The students had great feedback on the exhibition, saying:

“[The exhibition] has opened possibilities and Tilly has displayed it beautifully”

“It was great for my confidence to see the exhibition”

“The course has had such a positive impact on my wellbeing and mood”

“Connecting with others who have similar interests is really uplifting and enjoyable”

“It has been the highlight of my week”

“So great to spend 2 hours a week with other writers and our excellent, warm tutor” 

Tutor, Sara Nesbitt Gibbons, said:

‘We have enjoyed creativity and community on these courses, as well as coffee and cake afterwards. In this exhibition, you can see some examples of creative writing stimulated by our time in Whitehall. Some pieces – like Steve’s poem – are directly inspired by our local history and place.

Other pieces you can read here had an activity in Whitehall as a springboard into new ideas, creative writing techniques (like rhythm or character) and each writer’s unique voice.  For example, one of Louise’s pieces is inspired by the class wherein we explored the poem ‘The Door’ by Andrew Wynn Owen alongside the many doors and doorways in Whitehall. Our work on the ins-and-outs of rhyme – reflected in Nicky’s and Sally’s pieces – began with the sounds of the house.  And in our editing workshops mid-course, we had an in-depth read and discussion inspired by Rima‘s piece, ‘Finding Joy in Lockdown’. ‘

Examples of student work from the class can be found here 

Classes are open to all levels and abilities, from complete beginners to more experienced writers. The next Creative Writing for Wellbeing course starts in September 2022. Sutton College are also here for the ‘Our Communities and Our History: The Tudors and Nonsuch Palace’ History course starting on 27th April. To enrol on either course or find more information about dates and prices, visit www.suttoncollege.ac.uk or call 020 8289 4700