At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead creative writing sessions, guiding participants to explore their creativity through shared reading.
- Company: Open Book, a charity promoting accessible reading and writing across Scotland.
- Benefits: Paid opportunity, training support, budget for supplies, and access to administrative help.
- Other info: Opportunity to pilot new groups and support multicultural communities.
- Why this job: Make a difference in your community by fostering creativity and connection through writing.
- Qualifications: Experience in creative writing and a passion for community engagement.
Open Book is a charity which runs accessible shared reading and creative writing sessions across Scotland for a diverse range of participants, and they are looking to start some new groups.
In Open Book creative writing sessions, guided by the Lead Reader, the group will read short poems/stories together and use them as a springboard to create new pieces of their own (writing individually and sometimes as a group).
Open Book would like to find new communities to serve with Open Book sessions. They are looking for five new Lead Readers to pilot new Open Book groups based in Scotland with populations or in geographical locations they don’t currently serve. Open Book is looking to offer new communities the chance to enjoy the relaxed, inclusive space of a creative writing session. ‘Communities’ could mean your local area, or it could mean people with a shared identity, experience or interest. They want you to be connected to the community who will attend your group, and to have a good understanding of how shared reading and creative writing could work for them.
Each of the pilot groups will run for five sessions between September 2026 – February 2027. Open Book are particularly looking to increase their support of multicultural groups in Scotland but other than that are looking for your suggestions of places and populations for a new Open Book group.
As part of your application, Open Book is asking you to link up with a host organisation – the place where you’ll hold your sessions or a partner organisation that supports the community you’d like to work with. This could be a library, a community centre, a theatre, a charity, a bookshop… you’ll know what support your community needs, and where your community will feel most confident attending.
Experience and Salary
Open Book are looking for Creative Writing Lead Readers with an equivalent level of publication experience as Scottish Book Trust Live Literature database authors. The fee for running each of the five pilot sessions is £220. Open Book will also support training costs at a rate of £30 per hour for up to 2 hours, provide a budget for supplies required to run sessions and will support Lead Readers with a choice of reading materials for use in sessions. You’ll receive training in running sessions to the Open Book model, and will have access to administrative support from the team.
Creative Writing Lead Readers (Open Book) employer: Publishing Scotland
Open Book is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, dedicated to enhancing community engagement through creative writing and shared reading. With a focus on personal growth, they offer training and support for Lead Readers, ensuring that employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact in diverse communities across Scotland. The opportunity to connect with various populations and contribute to multicultural initiatives makes Open Book a rewarding place to work for those passionate about literature and community service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Creative Writing Lead Readers (Open Book)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the community you want to serve! Research local groups, libraries, or centres that align with your vision for the Open Book sessions. This will help you tailor your approach and show Open Book that you're genuinely connected to the people you'll be working with.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to potential host organisations and community leaders to discuss your ideas. Building these relationships can not only strengthen your application but also give you valuable insights into what the community needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your creative flair! When you get the chance to present your ideas, make sure to highlight your unique approach to leading creative writing sessions. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you can inspire and engage participants.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got all the resources you need to make your application stand out. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate, so you can focus on showcasing your passion for creative writing and community engagement.
We think you need these skills to ace Creative Writing Lead Readers (Open Book)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Community:Before you start writing your application, take a moment to think about the community you want to serve. We want to see how well you understand their needs and how shared reading and creative writing can benefit them. Make it personal!
Connect with a Host Organisation:Don’t forget to link up with a host organisation in your application! This could be a library, community centre, or any place that resonates with your chosen community. We’re keen to see how you plan to collaborate and make your sessions happen.
Showcase Your Experience:Highlight your creative writing experience in your application. We’re looking for writers who have a solid background, so don’t be shy about sharing your publications or relevant projects. Let us know why you’re the perfect fit for this role!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website by the deadline! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of all applications and ensures you don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Publishing Scotland
✨Know Your Community
Before the interview, take some time to research the community you want to serve. Think about how shared reading and creative writing can benefit them. Be ready to share specific ideas on how you plan to engage with this community during your sessions.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Highlight your previous experience in creative writing or leading groups. Bring examples of your work or any relevant publications. This will help demonstrate your capability and passion for the role, making you a strong candidate.
✨Connect with Host Organisations
Have a few potential host organisations in mind that align with your community focus. Discuss how these partnerships could enhance your sessions and provide support. This shows initiative and a proactive approach to building connections.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity
Open Book values inclusivity, so be prepared to discuss how you would create a welcoming environment for diverse participants. Share your thoughts on fostering a relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable to express themselves creatively.
