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 with training support, materials budget, and administrative assistance.
- 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.
Posted on: 27th May, 2026. Closing date: 29th June, 2026. Apply by Monday 29 June for this paid opportunity for writers.
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) in London employer: Publishing Scotland
Open Book is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, dedicated to enhancing the literary landscape across Scotland. As a Lead Reader, you will not only have the opportunity to engage with diverse communities but also benefit from comprehensive training and support, ensuring your professional growth while making a meaningful impact through creative writing. With a focus on accessibility and community connection, Open Book offers a unique environment where your passion for literature can flourish.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Creative Writing Lead Readers (Open Book) in London
✨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 that you're genuinely invested in their needs.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to potential host organisations and community leaders. Building relationships can open doors and give you insights into what works best for your target audience.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your creativity! When pitching your ideas, share examples of your previous work or writing styles that resonate with the community. This will help demonstrate your capability as a Lead Reader and inspire confidence in your vision.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions!
We think you need these skills to ace Creative Writing Lead Readers (Open Book) in London
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! Whether it’s a library, community centre, or charity, we want to know where you plan to hold your sessions and how they’ll support your group. This shows us you’re serious about making a difference.
Showcase Your Experience:We’re looking for Creative Writing Lead Readers with some solid experience under their belt. Highlight any relevant publications or previous work in creative writing sessions. Let us see what you’ve got!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of everything 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. Understand their needs and how shared reading and creative writing can benefit them. This will show Open Book that you're genuinely invested in making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Creativity
Prepare to discuss your own creative writing experiences and how they relate to leading sessions. Bring examples of your work or ideas for potential group activities. This will help demonstrate your passion and capability as a Lead Reader.
✨Connect with Host Organisations
Think about potential host organisations you could partner with for your sessions. Be ready to discuss these connections during the interview, as it shows you’re proactive and have a clear plan for implementing the programme.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity
Open Book values inclusivity, so be prepared to talk about how you would create a welcoming environment for diverse participants. Share any past experiences where you've successfully engaged different communities through creative writing.
