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- Tasks: Join a free training programme to develop your writing skills and break into publishing.
- Company: HarperCollins Author Academy, supporting underrepresented writers.
- Benefits: Gain industry insights, connect with mentors, and earn a certificate.
- Why this job: Transform your passion for writing into a career with expert guidance.
- Qualifications: Open to aspiring authors from underrepresented backgrounds.
- Other info: Limited places available; apply by 6th February 2026.
Please note that some of the wording will refer to CVs and ‘hiring’. Please ignore these references as they do not apply to your application. The benefits are not applicable as this is not an advert for a job vacancy.
If you believe there’s an audience for your words but don’t know what the next step might be then the HarperCollins Author Academy may be the right place for you. The HarperCollins Author Academy offers free training to support writers from underrepresented minority ethnic backgrounds. Under the programme directorship of Ken Wilson-Max, publisher at HarperCollinsChildren’s Books imprint Kumusha Books, the Academy provides aspiring writers from underrepresented ethnic backgrounds with the skills and insight to break into the publishing industry.
Course Overview
The Academy offers three courses in Fiction, Non-fiction, and Writing for Children. Our next courses start in May 2026 and run for six weeks, with live-streamed tutorials, author roundtables, and digital access to course materials. To graduate, students must also complete a series of on-demand masterclasses covering the fundamentals of publishing as a business. A weekly schedule for the courses will follow closer to the time on the Author Academy website.
Once you’ve put your thoughts into words, you’ll learn how to get your work ready for publishers. Our courses offer crucial insights across a range of industry topics, including:
- Turning an idea into a solid book proposal;
- Working with agents, editors and publishers;
- Contracts, copyright, and royalties;
- Genres and formats;
- The craft of storytelling;
When you complete the course, you’ll be awarded a HarperCollins Academy Certificate. You’ll also be invited to join the Academy’s Alumni Network and connect with fellow students and industry contacts.
Before you apply
Budding authors can apply for one of the Academy’s limited 45 places, split into three live teaching streams:
- 15 places in the Writing Fiction Course
- 15 places in the Writing Nonfiction Course
- 15 places in the Writing for Children Course
Please only apply for one course. Applicants will be selected based on samples of their work, assessed by a panel of HarperCollins staff. The course is free of charge. Students will need access to a computer and a reliable internet connection in order to take part.
Here are the key dates:
- 08/01 – Applications open
- 6/02 – Applications close
- 03/07 – graduation event - submissions window opens
- 30/07/26 – manuscript submission window closes
To apply, complete the application form by following the link. Applications close on 6 February 2026.
HarperCollins Author Academy 2026 employer: Be Applied Ltd
Contact Detail:
Be Applied Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HarperCollins Author Academy 2026
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Connect with fellow aspiring authors and industry professionals through social media or local writing groups. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that golden opportunity!
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t be shy about sharing your work! Join online forums or workshops where you can showcase your writing. Feedback from others can help you refine your skills and boost your confidence before applying to the Academy.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay organised! Keep track of deadlines and requirements for the HarperCollins Author Academy. Set reminders for yourself so you don’t miss out on applying for those limited spots!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need to make your submission shine. Let’s get you on that path to becoming a published author!
We think you need these skills to ace HarperCollins Author Academy 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Guidelines Carefully: Before you dive into your application, make sure to check out the enrolment criteria on our website. Understanding what we’re looking for will help you tailor your application and increase your chances of being selected.
Showcase Your Unique Voice: When you're putting together your writing sample, let your personality shine through! We want to see your unique style and perspective, so don’t be afraid to be yourself and share your story.
Keep It Concise and Relevant: While we love a good story, remember to keep your application focused. Stick to the word limits and ensure every sentence adds value. This shows us that you can communicate effectively, which is key in the publishing world.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re following the correct process. Plus, it gives you a chance to double-check everything before hitting send!
How to prepare for a job interview at Be Applied Ltd
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, take some time to research HarperCollins and the Author Academy. Understand their mission and values, especially how they support underrepresented voices in publishing. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Showcase Your Writing Passion
Be prepared to discuss your writing journey and what inspires you. Share specific examples of your work and how they align with the courses offered. This is your chance to demonstrate your enthusiasm for storytelling and how you envision contributing to the literary world.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the programme, such as the types of support available or how the alumni network functions. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the Academy is the right fit for you.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Rehearse your answers to common interview questions, focusing on your experiences and aspirations as a writer. You might even want to do a mock interview with a friend or family member. The more comfortable you are speaking about your work, the more confident you'll feel during the actual interview.
