August 25, 2022

Three Ways UBC’s New Shoots Creative Writing Program is Expanding Classroom Learning

The Artist in the Classroom grant supports creative collaborations between artists and educators. Together, they bring innovative classroom projects to young learners. ArtStarts supports a variety of projects, including the New Shoots program. New Shoots is a creative writing program. The program engages Vancouver's young learners in a transformative learning experience. 

The program has operated for more than three decades. Students from the University of British Columbia’s Creative Writing MFA and Master's in Children's Literature programs receive support from UBC faculty and Vancouver School Board educators. Together they create 6-session creative writing workshops. Over the course of several weeks, these “mentors'' engage teens in a creative writing practice. Workshops focus on a particular genre, e.g. sci-fi, poetry, or graphic novels. 

UBC's New Shoots program allows young learners new avenues for self-exploration and expression. Here are three ways the program is transforming learning for Vancouver's young people.

1. If you can see it, you can be it

Many young learners with aspirations benefit from having a role model. Young learners interested in reading and creative writing develop their professional interests. A young person who loves to read and write might not have access to a person in their lives who share similar interests. UBC's New Shoots program builds bridges between students and New Shoots mentors. This opportunity allows young learners to envision a path forward and build relationships. 

New Shoots program participants have gone on to become professional writers. Alumni include Evelyn Lau, Kevin Chong, and Wayde Compton. 

2. Creative writing benefits diverse learners

Not all students aspire to pursue creative writing. An educational curriculum that incorporates an interdisciplinary learning process can accommodate many learners. Students of various learning abilities have the opportunity to explore their own creativity. Young learners can pursue their own interests and express themselves in new ways. Many educators have noted that they see their students in a new light. Some students blossom in unexpected ways through creative forms of self-expression. 

3. Students gain deeper insights from their peers

Students build communication skills and build confidence through the practice of writing and sharing their stories. The students also learn from each other. Students review their peer’s work and provide supportive feedback. Students learn from their peers' stories. Some stories may resonate. Other stories shed light on their different lived experiences.

New Shoots Anthology Volume 33 presented at a launch event in 2018

 The New Shoots program culminates in a published anthology. Students present their stories at an annual launch event. Attendees include New Shoots mentors, families, teachers, and New Shoots alum. Having their work published in print and received by mentors and peers is impactful. The ability for students' work to come to life is another layer of the process to nurture their abilities. 

Over the past 36 years, the anthology has served as a time capsule. The anthologies are a way of understanding what matters most to Vancouver's young people. The New Shoots program will host an upcoming launch for its latest anthology on September 21. If you want to learn more about the program, visit the New Shoots website. 

ArtStarts would like to thank Erin Biberdorf, New Shoots Coordinator, and Emily Pohl-Weary, Assistant Professor at UBC's School of Creative Writing, for co-creating this blog with us. Looking to expand artistic opportunities while making curricular connections in your classroom? Apply to the Artists in the Classroom grant by October 25. We are here to support you with your application. Contact us at [email protected] and sign up to our newsletter to learn about updates and opportunities.

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