Empowering Marginalised Students Through Creative Writing Program

As we move into an AI and digital world, it’s refreshing to know that creative writing is still encouraged for our youth. Mounties has contributed $31,000 to support a transformative initiative by Story Factory to deliver six term-long creative writing programs aimed at empowering up to 150      students in under-resourced schools across the Fairfield local government area.

The schools involved have been carefully chosen based on need, timetabling, and staff availability, reflecting a strong collaboration between Story Factory and local schools.

“We are pleased to support Story Factory's creative writing workshops that will empower up to 150      students across several under-resourced schools, providing them with invaluable opportunities for creative expression and academic growth,” said Mounties Group President, John Dean.

Each term-long program will comprise seven one-hour workshops conducted weekly during school hours, catering to a maximum of 25 students per workshop, with the assistance of up to four volunteers providing targeted writing support. Every student will receive a published book featuring their own creative work, serving as a testament to their achievements.

Over the last few years, students in Western Sydney schools have been disproportionately affected by interrupted learning from ongoing COVID-19 lockdowns, which have significantly impacted their studies and consequently, their literacy levels. Research shows that creative writing programs, such as those run by Story Factory, significantly improve educational outcomes, develop social and emotional wellbeing, and give young people agency over their stories and lives.

Since the program has been implemented Story Factory has already seen great benefit for young people, including increased academic engagement and attainment. Four of the six creative writing programs have already been completed, showing 71% of young people enjoyed writing in the workshops, and 82% felt they were better at writing after participating.

“This grant has enabled us to improve the confidence, writing and literacy skills of 104 young people in Fairfield already who were at risk of low literacy and switching off at school. In weekly workshops, we supported them to develop vital skills that are key to school engagement and improved educational outcomes as they authored their own creative work in a fun and encouraging environment,” said Ruth Friedlaender, Grants and Strategy Manager at Story Factory.

For more information on Story Factory’s Creative Writing Program, visit storyfactory.org.au.