Black British Writing: The Summer School

By participating in this Summer School you will connect with a community of people passionate about the study of black British writing. You will improve your confidence in your academic skills, and benefit from the support of an academic community committed to engaging people from all walks of life in the study of Caribbean and black British literature.

You will begin to explore some of the salient ideas in the field, to explore the experience of studying at Goldsmiths, and to share your ideas and creativity in a supportive academic environment. 

When is it?

The Summer School runs over the course of two evenings and two whole weekends in June 2016. Participants are expected to attend all sessions. The dates are as follows: 

Wednesday 8th June, 5.30-8.30pm

Saturday 11th June, 10.00am-5.00pm

Sunday 12th June, 10.00am – 1.00pm 

Wednesday 22nd June, 5.30 – 8.30pm

Saturday 25th June, 10.00am – 5.00pm

Sunday 26th June, 10.00am – 1.00pm

How do I apply?

The best applications will be invited for interview, from which a selection of candidates will be offered a place. The Summer School is free of charge, but full attendance is expected, and is an essential prerequisite for your entry for the Black British Writing Summer School Essay Prize. Participants in the Summer School (who are not already enrolled on the ) are guaranteed an interview for the MA once they have submitted a complete application.

Application Deadline: 15 May 2016

What will I learn?

The Summer School will incorporate a range of seminar, workshop and tutorial sessions designed to prepare you for the MA in Black British Writing. These sessions include:

• taster lecture-seminars on the subject of Caribbean and black British literature
• author/poet visits
• tutorial sessions on completing the application process for the MA (for those who are not already enrolled) – completing the application form as well as interview technique
• academic skills: how to write an essay, and a session on understanding the qualities and features of literary writing
• using the VLE (Virtual Learning Environment)
• research skills and using the library
• academic presentation skills – students will prepare a short poster presentation which they will present at Goldsmiths Caribbean Forum, and at the Conference
• note-taking skills – how to take effective notes in classes and lectures.

What opportunities will participation in the Summer School create for me?

You will have the opportunity to publish a 1000-word essay in an online journal, and to enter this piece of writing into a friendly competition with your Summer School colleagues (prize terms currently in negotiation).

This publication, and your participation in the Summer School and the Writing Prize, can be used to support your application for a place on the , and will be a great addition to any CV or professional or creative portfolio.