“Like many people I had always felt the urge to write and felt I had ‘a book in me’ but had never summoned the confidence to do anything about it. I booked on to the first of several writing courses with Jon Blake on a whim, half expecting to find out that actually I had no talent for writing. It was a revelation! Jon is a superb teacher (and that’s coming from an English teacher – and we are harsh critics). Not only did he encourage me and provide astute guidance but he gave me the confidence to put pen to paper and finger to keyboard and WRITE for the first time. It has changed my life. I love writing and have had a story published. All thanks to Jon. I have also made some wonderful friends and the Sunday sessions have been an absolute joy. If, like me, you want to do it but aren’t quite sure how, I strongly urge you to take the plunge. You will never look back!”     Kath Gilbin

“I was bought a creative writing course for my 40th birthday, as I’d always talked about writing but never actually got anything down on paper! I chose Jon’s ‘Writing for Children’ course which I can’t recommend highly enough. Running over 6 weeks, an hour and a half a week (with homework!) it was a brilliant introduction to putting pen to paper, sketching out an idea and developing a story.   Jon gets you writing from day one, helps you along the way with structural and creative suggestions and also welcomes feedback from the rest of the group.  I’ve also attended the short stories and script writing courses, where I’ve been able to experiment with different writing styles.The atmosphere is always relaxed and friendly. Whether you are a complete beginner or a more experienced writer looking for a bit of structure and focus, these courses are for you!”    Lindsay Bonaccorsi

As a complete beginner I was apprehensive when I attended the first session of Jon’s Creative Writing Class in June 2014 – I need not have worried! Jon offers constructive support and the atmosphere is informal and relaxed. I’ve made friends whose feedback and support for the book I’m now writing has been invaluable. I have attended three courses and two retreats in the Brecon Becons. Don’t think about it – sign up for a course now!    Anne Huxtable

As a very inexperienced writer and a mature student I really enjoyed the challenge of this course. I was encouraged by Jon to push some boundaries and I have discovered that I really enjoy writing and want to do more. A magazine also showed interest in my work. It was only a 6 week course but well worth it. Jon was helpful, encouraging, humorous and was adept at dealing with the rabble which was our class. I also enjoyed meeting some lovely people from different walks of life. I recommend the course to anyone who wants to be stretched further in  their writing abilities.  Clare Russell-Jones

“I have just completed an enjoyable six week course on ‘Writing For Children’ with the successful and humble adult and children’s author, Jon Blake. This has been the second course taught by Jon that I have attended now. The first course was a one day course on ‘How To Write A Children’s Story Book’, which I also thoroughly enjoyed. What I found to be the most invaluable practice on both courses was in the willingness to share unfinished work and receive feedback for further development. It was a delight to spend time in the company of such inspring, creative and warm hearted individuals who put me at ease, always. Jon’s method of teaching certainly helped in creating such a reaxed and tranquil atmosphere in a room which also has the benefits of being set in the beautiful parkland of Bute, ajacent to the mighty, mind inspiring river taff . The centre for adults is also just a stonethrow away from the Welsh College of Music and Drama. What more could a creative soul wish for?”    Heledd Bianchi

Other reviews

“I so enjoyed the work in progress workshop on six Sunday afternoons in a beautiful setting with inspiring writers.  The encouragement and thoughtful critiques I received persuaded me not to abandon an imperfect novel and helped me map out the next draft”

“The workshop was a great opportunity to share creative ideas, be inspired and learn some really great tips about how to write a successful children’s book in a very relaxed environment. Jon is very laid back and encouraging and I’m already looking forward to his next class”

“I’ve enjoyed Jon’s course on ‘Writing for Children’ enormously, and the discipline of ‘writing to order’, every week, has been incredibly valuable.”

“A very entertaining, informative and constructive course. The experienced tutor gave excellent feedback to help me evolve my stories and improve my writing style. The setting is relaxed, peaceful and informal. I greatly enjoyed the course and would highly recommend it.”

“A very useful class. It enabled me to appreciate the ingredients needed to make a successful children’s picture book. The feedback given after a directed writing task was valuable and encouraging. I have already signed up for another course”

“Just to say a big thank you to Jon for running the course. It got my ideas out of my head and on to the paper which I am so excited about”