Looking for more in Reading and Stories or About Sensory Storytelling?

Sharing Sensory Stories Authors Lab

Applications are now closed. This page is for information only.

Woman throwing scarves in classroom

Join us for this year's Sharing Sensory Stories Authors Lab. Aimed at authors and storytellers with little to no previous experience in sensory storytelling, our two–day programme of seminars and workshops will teach you all the tools and give you the confidence you need to deliver stories in engaging and accessible ways.

You will have the chance to work with highly skilled and experienced professionals and artists ready to give you guidance to improve your practice and discover your own talent.

Before applying, please ensure you are able to attend both days of Authors Lab. There are 10 Authors Lab places available, and this training is fully-funded. We can offer limited financial support with travel and accommodation costs for participants travelling from remote parts of Scotland.

Day 1 of Authors Lab 

When: Wednesday 19 April, 9am – 4pm

Where: Online – Zoom platform

As an introduction to sensory storytelling, you will hear from the Sensory Engagement and Inclusion Specialist Joanna Grace, as well as from the Artistic Director of Oily Cart theatre Ellie Griffiths. In the afternoon you will join a Makaton taster session as well as learn how to use rhythm and music in your stories with the composer and performance artist Greg Sinclair.

Day 2 of Authors Lab 

When: Friday 28 April, 9am–4pm 

Where: Novotel Edinburgh Centre, EH3 9DE

You will be asked to prepare and present a short story as part of workshops together with author and director of My Kind of Book, Ailie Finlay and the Creative Arts Director of PAMIS (Promoting a more inclusive society) Maureen Phillip. You will also have the chance to learn about Augmentative and Alternative Communication in the CALL Scotland symbolised resources workshop.

The venue is wheelchair accessible. If you have any other accessibility needs or if we can make any reasonable adjustments to welcome you to Authors Lab, please email signe.rudovica@scottishbooktrust.com.

How to apply

Eligibility criteria

  • You must live and work in Scotland.

  • You must be over 18 years of age.

  • You have little to no paid or formal experience of delivering sensory storytelling.

  • You have interest in delivering sensory storytelling to children and young people in Scotland.

  • You do not need to be registered on the Authors Directory to take part in Authors Lab, however, you may consider doing so in the future. For more details, please read Joining the Author Directory: Information for Writers

If successful with your application, you will receive a complimentary pack with the book Sensory Stories: Making Narratives Accessible Through the Senses by Joanna Grace and a selection of items you can use as sensory props.

The deadline for applications is 5pm, Friday 24 March.

Applications are now closed. This page is for information only.