The Writing Hub Short Story Writing Workshop – Feb 2026

  • Date: 8 February 2026
  • Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Location: Leitrim School of Art, The Junction (Coach Building), Ballinamore N41 E8H0
  • Type: Workshop
  • Learn More: View Event Website

The Writing Hub; One Day Short Story Workshop. Sun 8th Feb ,10am-5pm, Total €130; €30 deposit on booking balance €100 payable on the day.

✍️ Unleash Your Inner Storyteller – A One-Day Short Story Writing Workshop
✨ With Nicola Kearns – International Bestselling Author & Writing Coach

Do you have a story waiting to be told? Maybe it’s a slice of your life you’d love to turn into a memoir, or perhaps you’ve always dreamed of seeing your short story published in a magazine or anthology. Wherever you are on your writing journey, this one-day workshop is designed to help you bring your stories to life.

Join award-winning author Nicola Kearns for an inspiring, practical, and relaxed day of writing. Nicola will guide you through the essentials of short story craft—without the pressure—so you can finally start (and finish!) the stories you’ve been carrying inside.

🌟 In this workshop you’ll:

  • Learn proven techniques for writing compelling and memorable short stories
  • Explore character, plot, and voice in a fun, supportive environment
  • Receive personalized feedback and encouragement from Nicola herself
  • Discover how to polish your stories for magazines and anthologies
  • Leave with fresh inspiration—and a notebook brimming with ideas

💡 This course is perfect if you:

  • Are an aspiring writer ready to dive into short stories
  • Want to refine your skills and explore new creative directions
  • Need the time, space, and support to focus on your writing goals

👩‍🏫 Meet Your Tutor – Nicola Kearns

Nicola is the bestselling author of The Malta Saga and Under an Irish Sky. She has been published internationally, featured on radio and podcasts, and is known for her warm, supportive teaching style. She has mentored countless writers—some of whom have gone on to be published themselves.

🗓 Workshop Details:

  • When: Sun 8th Feb (One-Day Only)
  • Where: The Junction, Ballinamore
  • Who It’s For: Beginners, emerging writers, or anyone curious about storytelling
  • Class Size: Small, to ensure everyone gets individual attention

👉 Don’t wait—spaces are limited! Join us for this one-day creative escape and take the first step towards getting your short stories published.

Als see below for details of our one to one writing mentoring scheme

Below is a review of Nicola’s coaching skills from Leitrim writer Seamus O’Rourke, and reviews from some of Nicola’s Leitrim School of Art’s past students.

Apart from being a fabulous author herself, Nicola Kearns has always shown a huge interest in the work of others. When I put my first book of poems together (A Lock of Poems, Recitations & Good Ones), and when I finally got the courage to write my memoir, (Standing in Gaps) — Nicola was first in line to offer her support. Yes, she put a positive review online, but it was the long telephone conversations, her genuine interest and passion for the art form… that was worth a thousand reviews. It gave me a sense of worth and a sense of being part of a bigger picture.

Nicola’s natural instinct is to support and nurture and… to ‘mind’… I’m a big long in the tooth for idle paise or false hope… but when someone shows genuine interest, when someone who has walked that same crumbling path takes the time to lend a hand… you grab hold of it, like she was your sister, your carer… your friend. Nicola Kearns has great skill as a writer, but equal to that, is her instinct to nurture what she sees in others.

– Seamus O’Rourke

Some reviews and comments from students that have attended Nicola’s Creative Writing Workshops here at LSA

“I absolutely loved doing the course and you’re style of tutoring was so encouraging and genuine. You yourself created such a sense of ease and fun in the class, which helped everyone feel safe and shine.”

“I am absolutely overwhelmed by your generosity regarding my writing. Thank you. I enjoyed your coaching so much, and have learned so much in 5 short weeks. I feel I’ve got the writing bug now, and have been writing every day. I am so glad our paths crossed, and I do hope I get to work with you again, in the near future. Thank you again. With warm regards always”

“It has been fantastic. I have done other creative writing courses but now I finally have an idea of where I can go with what has been on my mind for years and how to do it. Thank you Nicola.”

“I feel like you opened me up to the belief that I can write. I am so blessed to have found your course, the way you teach is just made for the people who have lost faith in themselves and need a hand to guide them back. I don’t know how to thank you enough. All I can say is I hope I make you proud because you have put me back on the pathxxxx.”