Pigeons
and Doves
A writing initiative
for 7-18 year olds
We inspire creativity and help future writers create something unique without the stress of it being for an assessment or exam.
2024’s Summer Programme is funded by UK Shared Prosperity Fund with support from Bury Council and Bury VCFA.
What People Are Saying
“My daughter is always on her own in the playground and look at her! She’s got friends who are like her!”
“I never thought my boys would ever be able to spend a whole day away from me in the holidays and look at them! They’ve done the whole week with no meltdowns and with smiles on their faces! Please tell me you’ll keep on doing this!”
“Molly’s writing has come along so much…you’re doing an amazing thing here.”
“Pigeons and Doves are doing truly incredible work, inspiring young people to engage with writing, develop ther ideas and grow in confidence. They’re helping to create your future favourite authors. I only wish they’d existed when I was a kid.”
— Award winning author, Adam Farrer
Weekly themes
Our Writing Club programme consists of weekly themes and activities that support young writers to try new forms, imaginary situations and possibilities, so your child has something new to anticipate with each session.
Magical holidays
Our Holiday Programmes bring groups of young writers together with inspiring professional writers for week-long masterclasses where they will play with words, learn new skills and meet new friends.
Age tailored learning
Our programmes are led by experienced teachers with years of experience and full DBS checks. We give all of our participants 1:1 support as we keep our sessions small. Every session offers imagination, engagement and fun for budding writers.
Driven by local needs, Inspired by a global network
We’re all working class kids who made creative careers, we want to support kids from diverse backgrounds to to begin a lifelong creative journey, become better independent learners, and feel confident telling their stories.
Our programmes are inspired by the incredible international network of writing schools, 826 Valencia, whose aims are:
To transform young people’s relationships to writing, building their confidence and pride.
To Provide individualised attention and support, so young people can make great leaps in learning.
Partner with schools and communities, providing opportunities to those who would not otherwise have access.
To cultivate wonder, inspiring imagination and creativity
Working with our libraries and creative community to cultivate wonder and grow their creative confidence
We are a creative writing initiative working in Prestwich, Radcliffe and Bury. We offer creative writing sessions for 7 - 18 year olds driven by creativity and imagination. We’re working closely with the libraries to create local, national and international opportunities for kids to find their creative voice. We’re supported by our incredible professional creative community including BAFTA winning TV writers, Olivier nominated playwrights, National event awarded producers and celebrated storytellers who make up our visiting guest artists, mentors and role models helping opening doors to creative careers.
