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DITCH THE AI: WRITING SKILLS FOR ENGAGEMENT PROFESSIONALS

MODERN WRITING SKILLS FOR PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT TEAMS

What this course is about

A practical, hands‑on writing course for engagement and communications professionals who want to sound human, clear and confident, without relying on generic AI copy. 
You’ll learn how to write for real people across multiple platforms: reports, social media, websites, and blogs. The course blends clear theory with practical exercises, using public‑sector scenarios to help you practise writing that actually gets people to read, understand and act.
We focus on audience, structure, language and voice, with a dedicated module on when AI can genuinely help.

Duration

1 day

Delivery

Online or in-house​

Numbers

Maximum of 15​

Trainer

Rachel or Alexia​

Practical, hands on learning 
We blend short, clear teaching with real writing exercises. You’ll work on examples like press releases, web copy and social posts, and get feedback you can use immediately.
Built for modern engagement 
Writing now has to work across different channels - web, social, email, print and consultation materials. We show you how to adapt your message and structure for each, while keeping it simple and accessible.
Designed for public sector realities 
Tight timelines, political sensitivity, complex programmes and mixed literacy levels - we teach writing that fits the world you actually work in, not a textbook.
Inclusive and ethical by default 
Plain English, clear structure and careful language choices are central. We focus on how writing affects trust, participation and understanding, especially for people with lower reading confidence.
Suitable for mixed ability teams 
Whether you’re new to writing or experienced but rusty, the course explains good practice in straightforward, practical terms - no jargon, no ego.
Flexible delivery 
Delivered in person or online, over a full or half day, for up to 15 participants, led by Rachel or Alexia.

What you'll learn

​By the end of this masterclass, participants will be able to:

  • Write clearly and confidently

  • Shape messages around the audience

  • Structure information so people get to the point quickly

  • Use plain, accessible language

  • Edit with confidence

  • Use AI safely and sensibly

Participants will leave with practical frameworks, tools and a high‑level digital engagement plan they can adapt for their own organisations.
 

Who this course is for

Ideal for professionals responsible for community engagement, consultation or public involvement, including:

  • Public sector engagement officers

  • Healthcare communication teams

  • Policy and strategy professionals

  • Digital engagement leads

  • Customer insight and community liaison staff

  • VCSE communications and engagement teams

Suitable for beginners or people looking to refresh their important writing skills.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this course about creative writing or professional communications? 

It’s focused on professional communications and engagement - press releases, web copy, social posts, staff messages and consultation materials - not fiction or creative writing.

Do we need any formal writing training beforehand?

No. The course works for mixed ability teams and explains good writing practice in clear, practical terms. It also serves as a good refresher for people who may not have learned the principles of writing since school!

Will this help with consultation and engagement materials? 

Yes. We specifically cover how to write public facing information and calls to action so people understand what’s happening and how to get involved.

Why is good writing important for engagement work?

Good writing is one of the most powerful tools you have in engagement. If people don’t understand what you’re saying, they can’t take part, make informed choices or trust the process. Clear writing removes barriers: it helps people with different reading levels, different levels of confidence, and different lived experiences access the same information. It also reduces confusion, cuts down follow‑up questions, and makes your organisation look competent, organised and human.

Does the course cover AI tools? 

Yes - but critically. We look at how AI can support drafting and ideas, and where it risks generic, misleading or trust damaging content.

Can the writing course be tailored to our organisation?

Absolutely. We can adapt examples, exercises and scenarios to match your audiences, services and internal style guides.

Do you provide follow up support after the training?

Yes - we can offer follow up sessions, templates or additional training depending on what your team needs. We also offer support if you need help implementing new writing standards or reviewing key materials.

Get in touch

If you don’t see exactly what you’re looking for here, we also design bespoke training courses and tailored packages to meet your organisation’s specific needs. With broad experience across communications, marketing and engagement, we can create practical, relevant learning shaped around your goals, team and challenges.

Get in touch to discuss your requirements or book a 30-minute introductory conversation.

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