The festival really cemented the hard work our students have been putting into their weekly workshops with professional author Mark Gwynne Jones. Seeing them take everything they’ve learned in those sessions and apply it in such a high-profile environment was fantastic. It wasn't just about the writing itself; the day provided a real confidence boost for everyone involved, proving to them that their voices matter and that their stories deserve to be heard.

The First Story programme is a core part of our commitment to creative writing here at the Academy. By giving students the chance to work directly with published authors, we help them develop their narrative voice, improve their critical thinking, and build the resilience that comes with sharing their own creative work.

It was a joy to see our group so engaged and inspired throughout the day. They have returned to their weekly workshops with renewed energy, and we are already looking forward to seeing what they produce next.