This week I have treated myself to a three day course on Media Skills for Creative Writers at the Manchester Writing School.  This centre of excellence in all things writing related has a formidable reputation, and given the quality of the tuition I’ve received here, I can see why.  Under the direction of unit leader James Draper, we have been taught by journalist and lecturer Rachel Broady.  Rachel has grounded us in technical aspects of writing (especially features) and facilitated us in workshopping our ideas.  Guest tutor Kath Grant gave us valuable input on working as freelance writers, and how to pitch our ideas to commissioning editors.  The small group format means that we have had plenty of opportunities to ask questions, and to receive advice tailored to our interests and circumstances.  Having a more journalistic slant on writing has been an especially good discipline for me.  Watch this space…