At the start of October, BISP welcomed author Uttama Kirit Patel for a series of workshops with our Year 10 IGCSE and Year 13 IBDP students.

The sessions focused on developing an authentic voice in writing, both in English Language and Literature and university personal statements. Students were encouraged to think like writers and editors, exploring the choices authors make and how language can be used to engage readers and communicate ideas effectively.

For our Year 13 students, the visit offered a chance to ask a question that often comes up in English lessons: “Was the writer really thinking about that technique when they wrote this?”

The answer from a published author? A resounding “Yes!”

This exchange gave students a valuable insight into the thought and intention behind the texts they study, connecting their classroom analysis with the writing process itself.

The workshops brought together literary analysis and practical writing skills, giving students new perspectives on both reading and writing as they continue their IGCSE and IBDP studies.

Thank you to Uttama for sharing her experience and insights with our students, and for encouraging them to think more deeply about the words they read and the words they write.