Life Writing – Who Do You Think You Are?

Who is the course for?

This course is aimed at anyone with an interest in genealogy or local history who would like to collate their research into a more permanent form. In particular it is aimed at those who have spent time tracing their family’s history, uncovering mysteries, secrets, tragedies, or simple tales of everyday life from the past.

There is also a keen interest at the moment in researching sport clubs and athletes’ stories as well as town and parish history. Such institutions have a rich oral history passed down from generation to generation. What better way to preserve and treasure that history than by turning it into a book – to be passed down and shared for years to come?

What will I study?

At each session, students will have the opportunity to share their ideas, give critical feedback and make supportive suggestions within their group.

Choosing Format: The format could range from a photocopied booklet for club members to a hard-bound book. Another popular approach is the “Cookbook” which takes traditional family recipes and combines them with humorous anecdotes. Students will look at examples of each genre and think about what might work for them.

Defining Scope: This session considers where to begin and end in a narrative history, who to include and who to omit, and how far back to go.

Selecting Plot or Theme: This session encourages students to approach their ancestors as characters in a drama and to consider the difficulties and challenges they faced. A plot or over-riding theme gives any family history interest and focus. Common themes include:

• Immigration/Migration
• Rags to Riches
• Urban to secular life
• War and Peace

Using records and other documents: This session considers how information derived from official documents; statistics or marriage/birth/death certificates can be incorporated into a piece of writing.

How will the course be delivered?

Through classroom based activities, alongside a tutor and other delegates at a similar level. The course will also include interactive forums and tutorials via our Moodle virtual learning environment (i.e. online).

Course Entry Criteria

This course would be most beneficial to those who have who have spent time tracing their family’s history, uncovering mysteries, secrets, tragedies, or simple tales of everyday life from the past.

The college operates a no refunds policy as detailed below. Cancellations and transfer requests are subject to the following conditions:

• More than 4 weeks notice – no charge
• 4 weeks notice – 30% of the cost
• 2-3 weeks notice – 50% of the cost
• 1-2 weeks notice – 75% of the cost
• Less than 1 weeks notice – 100% of the cost

All cancellations must be made in writing and are subject to a £10 administration charge. The full fee’s policy is available on request.

What will I get at the end of the course?

You will receive a Blackburn College Certificate of attendance upon successful completion of the training.

What can I do next?

See our other creative courses here

How much does it cost?

The course fee is only £149.00 per person including all tuition/workshops/critique and a Blackburn College Certificate of Attendance. (prices are subject to change)