Key Stage 3 Author Visits
Talks and creative writing workshops for Years 7 to 9, with a focus on suspense and thriller writing
Session content
When visiting Key Stage 3, I usually do a talk for a whole year group followed by three workshops.
The talk covers the following:
- Writing and publishing
- The thriller genre
- Four keys to writing effective thrillers
- How to heighten tension within a single scene
The workshop puts theory into action, giving students an opportunity to plan and write a thriller scene of their own. I teach them an easily replicable formula for suspense, using the acroynm D.F.A. Description – Feeling – Action. Students do short bursts of speed-writing, interspersed with tuition. At the end, students volunteer to share their work and receive specific praise and encouragement.
Testimonials
Steve has been the best author visitor I have worked with in 20 years of secondary teaching. He is equally at home holding a really big audience as he is talking to individual children about their interests. His books range across ages and cover fiction and non-fiction and he can adapt his material brilliantly to suit different ages and school needs. He is a pleasure to deal with and students always asked to have him back.
Stephen’s visit was brilliant. He was so good with the pupils and did the workshops exactly how we had discussed via email. He has a really easy going manner. I will be recommending him to other schools in the area and would like to book him again next year.
Get the ball rolling…
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does each talk or workshop last?
Up to an hour each.
How many students can take part?
Up to 200 in a talk and up to 35 in a workshop. I have run workshops for up to 60 students in the past, but it’s a stretch.
Can you tailor workshop content to the needs of a particular group?
Yes. An author visit should always dovetail with classroom learning.
Can students buy your books in person and get them signed?
Sure. I can accept cash or I can invoice the school after the event for books sold.
What equipment should the school provide?
A projector or interactive whiteboard, and a flipchart easel and pad.
Who are Authors Abroad?
Authors Abroad organise author visits for schools in the UK and overseas. They are friendly and efficient, and for the last ten years they have organised all of my school visits.
How much does a visit cost?
The overall cost depends on the location of your school and the number of sessions you want. My author visits start at £165 for online sessions and £385 for half-day in-person visits (plus VAT and travel). Use the booking enquiry form to tell us your circumstances and Authors Abroad will respond with a precise quotation.
How far are you willing to travel?
Any distance within reason, and I do my best to keep travel expenses to a minimum for the sake of school budgets. We can usually make an in-person visit work, but sometimes a virtual visit turns out to be the best solution.