An intensive, personalised programme for poets committed to achieving their highest potential.

The Poetry Masterclass Programme is our most comprehensive poetry development experience. Designed for serious writers who are ready to invest in their craft, this extended programme combines mentoring, practical exercises, critical discussion, reading, and detailed feedback in a structured yet highly personalised environment.

Over six months, participants work closely with an experienced mentor to develop their writing, strengthen their technical skills, and build a substantial body of original work.

Whether your goal is publication, preparing a collection, entering competitions, or simply becoming a stronger and more confident poet, the Masterclass Programme provides the support, challenge, and guidance needed to help you progress.

About the Programme

This is an immersive and highly individual mentoring experience built around the needs and ambitions of each participant.

Sessions include a combination of writing tasks, creative challenges, exercises, projects, reading assignments, and discussion. Ideas are explored in depth, poems are developed from first draft through to completion, and participants are encouraged to experiment with new techniques and approaches.

Throughout the programme, particular attention is given to identifying strengths, addressing weaknesses, and helping each writer develop a distinctive and authentic poetic voice.

Unlike a fixed syllabus, the programme evolves according to the needs of the poet, ensuring that every participant receives guidance that is directly relevant to their own creative development.

What You'll Gain

By the end of the programme, participants will typically have:

A substantial portfolio of completed poems

Additional works in development

Greater confidence in their writing

Stronger editing and revision skills

A deeper understanding of contemporary poetry

A clearer sense of their individual poetic voice

Practical knowledge of publication opportunities

A personalised development plan for future writing

Programme Structure

The programme includes:

40 lessons, exercises, projects, and mentoring activities

Reading, writing, and feedback assignments

Personalised guidance and support throughout

Most participants complete the programme in approximately six months, although up to ten months may be taken if additional time is required.

The pace is designed to be challenging but manageable, allowing participants to develop their work in depth while balancing other commitments.

Personalised Mentoring

A key feature of the Masterclass Programme is the close working relationship between mentor and poet.

Together we will:

Develop ideas into completed poems

Explore advanced poetic techniques

Refine language, structure, and style

Build a cohesive body of work

Address recurring writing habits and obstacles

Prepare poems for submission and publication

Develop long-term creative goals

The emphasis throughout is on producing meaningful progress and helping each participant move towards their own definition of success as a poet.

Who Is This Programme For?

The Poetry Masterclass Programme is intended for committed writers who already have some experience of poetry and are looking for sustained, high-level support.

It is particularly suitable for:

Graduates of the Poetry Kit courses

Writers preparing work for publication

Poets developing a pamphlet or collection

Experienced writers seeking professional guidance

Anyone wishing to undertake a serious programme of creative development

No formal qualifications are required, but participants should be prepared to engage fully with the programme and its challenges.

Programme Fee

£220

You can enrol and pay securely online using the following link:

https://www.poetrykit.org/pkcourse/feepage.htm

Your Journey as a Poet

The Masterclass Programme represents the culmination of the Poetry Kit learning pathway. It offers the time, guidance, challenge, and support needed to move beyond learning techniques and towards establishing a confident and sustainable writing practice.

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Bursaries - We have bursaries available for longer courses and application is easy and non-intrusive.  So if you would like to be considered for one of those packages please write to bursaries@poetrykit.org  

The Tutor - Mentoring is presented by Jim Bennett who is a highly experienced poet and lecturer having delivered courses in creative writing for the University of Liverpool, Edge Hill University. He has worked on developing educational and training courses for other universities and institutions. Jim is a full time professional poet who earns his living from writing poetry and lecturing. He has won many awards over a forty year writing career. He is currently the Course Director for The Poetry Kit.  He has written 79 books, including books for children, training manuals and books of poetry.  He has won many awards for his work including the McMillan Prize, and three DADA Fest awards.  Click image on the right to read some of Jim's poetry.

See FAQ

If you have any questions please email - courses@poetrykit.org