A new anthology showcasing the boundless imagination of local children has been published this month, celebrating the transformative creative writing workshops delivered through Bournemouth University-based charity The Story Works.
The collection brings together an extraordinary range of stories created by young writers across Dorset - from croissant-stealing monsters to synchronised swimming giraffes - proving that when children are given the freedom to write, their creativity truly knows no limits.
Founded by BU Lecturer in Media at BU, Dee Hughes, The Story Works provides free workshops designed to remove barriers to learning and help children develop confidence, self-expression, and a sense of pride in their voices.
Dee Hughes said: “For a child to see their work in print is often life changing. To see their work valued will breed confidence in them and their future ideas. As children, we are all looking to be seen — and this anthology ensures they are seen.”
A unique partnership between children and BU volunteers
The charity also creates a powerful connection between two communities: the children attending the workshops and the university students and volunteers who help guide them.
One volunteer, Mike Bradley, studying a MA in Scriptwriting, described the experience as deeply rewarding.
“I jumped at the opportunity to give something back and to work with kids again,” he said. “I like to home in on the quiet and shy children - and when their suggestions and work are read out, the happiness and buzz they experience is all the compensation I need.”
Mike added that every session brings new surprises.
“I haven’t yet encountered a child who hasn’t loved these sessions, and I’m sure I won’t. Helping to give them confidence in their abilities with the written word is extremely rewarding.”
Dragons, capybaras and flying washing machines
BU student Scarlet Ellis-Nash, another volunteer who has been supporting the workshops for over a year and a half, said one of the most joyful parts of the sessions is seeing how wildly imaginative children become once they realise there are no limits.
“It’s always surprising to see the sorts of characters that kids love to come up with,” she said. “I remember the kids creating a villain - a dragon with 10,000 eyes! - and the hero was just a normal capybara.”
She explained that encouraging children to think beyond the obvious helps unlock their creativity.
“When you let kids know, they can go really wild, any limits they might put on themselves disappear,” she said. “If a flying washing machine can be the main character, then it makes total sense for a sentient hot dog or a dog who knows karate to be one too.”
Building confidence through being seen and heard
The publication of the anthology marks a significant milestone for the charity and its participants, giving children the chance to see their work taken seriously. You can find the anthology on Amazon in both Kindle and Paperback.
The Story Works continues to welcome new schools, community groups, and volunteers to help expand its reach and bring creative opportunities to more young people across the region.
Those interested in getting involved can find more information through the charity’s website.
For further information about Film & TV courses please visit the BU website.
