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) in Scotland 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. As a Lead Reader, you will not only have the opportunity to connect with diverse populations across Scotland but also benefit from comprehensive training, administrative support, and a budget for session supplies, ensuring a rewarding and impactful experience. Join us in making literature accessible and enjoyable for all, while growing your skills in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Creative Writing Lead Readers (Open Book) in Scotland
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the community you want to serve! Research local groups, libraries, or community 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! Attend local events or workshops related to creative writing and community engagement. This is a great way to meet potential partners and get insights into what works best for different communities.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t be shy about showcasing your experience! When you’re pitching your ideas, highlight any relevant writing or teaching experience you have. This will help build trust and credibility with both Open Book and your future participants.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets seen. 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 Scotland
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 sure to highlight your connection to this community in your application!
Link Up with a Host Organisation:Don’t forget to mention your host organisation! This is crucial for your application. We’re looking for you to partner with a place that supports your chosen community, so be clear about who they are and how they’ll help make your sessions a success.
Show Off Your Experience:We want to know about your creative writing experience! Make sure to detail any relevant publications or projects you've been involved in. This will help us see that you have the skills needed to lead engaging sessions and inspire participants.
Apply Through Our Website:When you're ready to submit your application, make sure to do it through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
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 your chosen group.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Highlight your previous experience in creative writing or leading groups. Bring along examples of your work or any relevant publications. This will help demonstrate your capability and passion for the role.
✨Connect with a Host Organisation
Have a clear idea of which host organisation you’d like to partner with for your sessions. Discuss why this partnership would be beneficial for both parties and how it aligns with Open Book's mission.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about Open Book’s vision and how they support their Lead Readers. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
