About Scriva
Scriva was set up by Katy Walker in 2018.
Katy has an MA in Dramatic Writing and degrees in General Arts, Acting and Ceramics. As well as being an experienced teacher her writing has been shortlisted by BBC, C4 and Arvon/Jerwood and she has mentored young writers for the National Theatre.
Indefatigably curious, her writing covers an eclectic mix of subjects but is always fundamentally concerned with the human spirit.
First published at the age of four with a pithy one liner in the school magazine, it took many years for her to be brave enough to write properly so she decided to help others get on with it faster than she did.
Tuition in the UK
Group and individual teaching
Most teaching takes place in the South East, either in schools/colleges (groups) or a central London venue (individuals). A writers' retreat in France is coming soon - please email for details.
Groups
Katy has run writing groups in schools and in the community, and has seen students have their work published and win prizes. She is skilled in educating in the literal sense of the word, 'drawing out' students' abilities in a way that is both rigorous and supportive.
One-to-One Sessions
Individual, tailored tuition for beginners through to experienced writers, specialising in dramatic writing alongside helping beginner writers identify and best use their voice.
'I have had tremendous fun in our lessons together and will very much miss her guidance and teaching. What this has taught me is that the writing is only the first stage in the process, most of the energy and time goes in to the editing and re-writing which isn't usually something I have the time or patience for. Now I have discovered a new found confidence in my ability as a writer.' Rachel H
'Everything about La Siguenie conspires to make for the perfect creative situation - the morning walks in the stunning French countryside surrounding the farm, the peace and quiet, Katy's marvellous hosting- I can honestly say I've never before been able to write so much in such a short space of time - a rough draft for a new T.V. project and two more ideas I've been able to develop on returning home. It was invaluable to be able to share our work in the evening ( over aperitifs in the garden!) and receive honest and useful critique from other writers. La Siguenie is a little piece of writers' heaven.'
Jo R, London
'Spent an amazing weekend at La Siguenie on a writing retreat. The location is beautiful and it's very peaceful with incredible views. I got so much writing done, there's something about being away from home - the words really flowed. In between writing I swam, ate sumptuous food and soaked up the atmosphere. I'd thoroughly recommend it.'
Donna A, Herts
'Our lessons have been invaluable to me. I can't imagine not knowing the things I have learnt from her, she has given me advice on everything from the layout of the text to the harsh reality of the industry and all of it I have lapped up eagerly. She is a fantastic teacher who has not only encouraged me to continue writing and to be a better writer but inspired me to really challenge myself and create the best that I can.'
Rachel H, Perthshire
Gallery
About La Siguenie
La Siguenie is an old farmhouse with its own orchard, garden and salt water pool. Rural but not isolated (we do have wifi but it’s a bit slow!), it offers tranquility, far-reaching views and the most amazing stars at night.
Single and twin accommodation is either in the main house or in a neighbour’s gite (NB The rooms upstairs in the main house have low beams). There is a large salon with library and dvd collection. Shared bathrooms (with shower, no bath). Although we expect good weather, the house has central heating and an open fire. Outside there are lots of little corners for writing (or snoozing).