New Sessions for Autumn 2025

I am an experienced teacher of Creative Writing, having lectured at the University of East Anglia for more than 10 years on the famous CW programme. What I have found is that 'The Group' is a secret weapon for the writer, whose existence is otherwise essentially solitary. Writing groups are bigger than the sum of their parts. Every one of you makes a difference to the others in the group, and in discussing all the work, you will make huge strides within your own practice.

This is a workshop course, so everyone writes. After the introductory week, each writer will send extracts of their pieces before the session. I will offer prompts and reading to support the writing of the group members. Everyone will have their work read by everyone else, and thus each participant will learn and gain an understanding of different aspects of the writing process. I will give verbal feedback during the sessions on all the work we read out each week. I will suggest reading each week, my choices led by things I notice in the group.

The Zoom link for each session will be sent to you in advance. I will record the sessions and send them weekly, so you have it for reference or if you have to miss a session live. There are no refunds for dates missed but as mentioned, there is the potential to catch up.

The next set of classes starts in September in a block of 10 sessions with a 2-week break midway. They run every Monday evening from 6pm - 7.30pm online.

Autumn 2025

22/9, 29/9, 6/10, 13/10, 20/10,

Break - 27/10, 03/11

10/11, 17/11, 24/11, 01/12, 08/12

The cost of the Zoom group this term will be £600, and all sessions are recorded, so if you cannot attend one, you can watch it later. As always, your payment secures your place, and the details are below: 

Raffaella Barker Writer

Acc: 44256140

Sort Code: 01-06-28

IBAN: GB75NWBK01062844256140

8 - 15th May 2026

Come to Ermioni in Greece to relax, read and write with novelist Raffaella Barker.

In May 2026 I will be running a course from my house in the Peloponnese. Join me for creative writing, great reading and local excursions in this ancient rural area of mainland Greece.

Walking among the wildflowers in the mountains of the Argolis area, exploring the beautiful Saronic Gulf coastline and visiting ancient sites. There is also the chance to take a day trip to glamorous Hydra and soak up history.

Stay 7 nights with us with breakfast, and lunch OR supper in the price. Comfortable accommodation, spaced around the village with sea views chosen for charm and the little touches.

Ermioni lies on a sheltered peninsula in the Aegean Sea, a finger pointing to historic Hydra and backed by the wild mountains of the Argolis. We will show you spectacular caves, take you picnicking amongst the wildflowers of the Greek spring. Creative writing and reading sessions will be scheduled for mornings and above all this will be a chance to relax, read great books and enjoy this idyllic place in good company.

The food will all be fresh, locally sourced and carefully prepared.

The price of 7 nights accommodation is £3250.00 and includes:

5 mornings teaching
1 brunch
5 breakfasts
5 lunches
2 dinners

Subject to government guidelines and restrictions