Young Authors Spring Workshop is a fun, practical two-day creative writing workshop where young writers aged 8–12 plan, draft, edit and polish their own short story.

Led by award-winning children’s author, registered teacher and experienced writing tutor Tom E. Moffatt, the workshop introduces the techniques authors use to create memorable characters, gripping problems, funny moments and satisfying endings.

This is not a sit-and-listen workshop. Students will write, share ideas, solve story problems and develop an original story while building their confidence as young authors.

Perfect for children who:

love writing and creating stories

have big ideas but struggle to get them onto the page

would like to become more confident writers

enjoy funny, imaginative or adventurous stories

would benefit from a creative, mostly screen-free holiday activity

Across the two days, students will develop a story they can feel proud of and prepare it for inclusion in a professionally produced group anthology.

The workshop is friendly, structured and encouraging, with plenty of practical guidance, creative prompts and author tips along the way. Places are limited to keep the group supportive and manageable.

Students will receive:

a printed writing workbook

two full days of author-led creative writing instruction

time to plan, draft, edit and polish their story

individual guidance and brief written feedback

a certificate of completion

PDF and ebook editions of the finished anthology

one paperback copy of the anthology

Venue: Otonga Road Primary School, Rotorua

Time: 9am–3pm

Dates: Wednesday 30th of September and Thursday 1st of October

Ages: 8–12

If your child loves stories, characters, jokes, imagination or big ideas, this workshop gives them two creative days to turn those ideas into a finished story and become a published young author.