Over the course of 16 weeks, the selected pupils will have the privilege of working closely with a professional writer, Nik Berry. These weekly workshops, scheduled every Monday after school from 3:15 to 4:30 pm, will take place in the school library. The goal of these sessions is to guide the pupils through the intricacies of creative writing, helping them develop their skills and discover their unique voices.

The result of their efforts will be the creation of a collective anthology, showcasing the pupils' individual creative writing pieces. Once completed, these anthologies will be proudly displayed in the school library. The pupils will receive copies of the anthology to keep as well as a copy of their anthology in the British Library in London. 

The First Story journey for these students commenced on Monday, the 15th of January, marking a significant milestone.

The First Story project will also be hosting competitions for the whole school, to encourage more and more pupils to write creatively. On 4th March, pupils will be asked to submit a 100-word story. 3 submissions will be chosen from the academy and the submissions will be judged by professional writers at Penguin Random House in London. Winners will have the chance to win literary prizes for their hard work! 

A pupil said: “I really can’t wait to see what our anthology will be like- I already feel more brave to write and know tips on how to trust my own creativity!”

Alex Lockhart, Assistant Head of English at Co-op Academy North Manchester added: “We are thrilled at the opportunity to develop and craft a group of pupils’ and their confidence in their own writing. We’re looking forward to seeing how our young writers progress on their first story journey, and we are excited to read their stories: watch this space!”