Hoping to help your child become a stronger, more confident writer?

In this guide, we’ll explain the difference between creative and composition writing, share tips on how to choose the right class, and highlight 20 programmes to consider, both in Singapore and online!

What’s the difference between a creative writing class and a composition writing class?

In Singapore, “creative writing” and “composition writing” labels are often used interchangeably, but here’s our take on how to differentiate between the two.

In an ideal setting, creative writing classes would nurture imagination, self-expression, and storytelling craft. This is where students can explore how to create compelling characters, build tension, and write in their own voice. It’s for those who love inventing stories, and want to grow as writers beyond the classroom.

Composition writing classes, on the other hand, are more likely to be structured around school-based writing, especially for exams. The focus is often on following fixed formats, writing within time limits, and responding to prescribed topics in a clear but formulaic way. Put plainly, it’s more about scoring well than exploring the craft of writing.

If your child is a budding writer and has a specific goal, such as writing a book or building a portfolio, a composition writing class probably isn’t the best option. Instead, look for creative writing programmes in Singapore and beyond, which support long-form writing, original thinking, and the freedom to take creative risks.

On the other hand, if your child is struggling to pass or do well in their English composition exams, a composition writing class can provide the structure and strategies they need. These classes might focus on exam techniques, such as planning with mind maps, crafting topic sentences, and including key elements like setting, conflict, and resolution.

Students may also learn how to vary sentence starters, use appropriate vocabulary, and avoid common grammatical errors. With regular timed practices and model essays to study, they can gain the tools to write confidently under exam conditions.

How do I choose a good creative writing class for my child?

A good creative writing class should help your child to grow in confidence, develop their voice, and see writing as a meaningful form of self-expression.

If possible, look for classes led by experienced writers. For instance, Canadian novelist Kim Purcell offers online creative writing classes for kids. She is a published novelist, as well as someone with years of teaching experience — this signals both subject-matter expertise and a deeper understanding of how to engage and support young writers.

Structure also matters. A strong class should offer a clear routine that balances instruction, practice, and feedback. In Purcell’s workshops, students spend 20 to 25 minutes on in-class writing, and this is supported by warm-ups, skill demonstrations, and literary examples. This is a good setup, because students are doing actual writing, not just talking about it. And because a teacher can offer “live” guidance and targeted prompts during writing time, students don’t get stuck or lost in their own heads.

Wondering if you should prioritise in-person classes for your child? Our take is that online classes can be just as effective, provided they’re interactive and well-facilitated. Look for classes that offer real-time sessions, opportunities for feedback, and a sense of community. 

Of course, if your child is new to writing or needs more structure, you might prefer an in-person class. But for older or more independent learners, online classes open up access to teachers from anywhere in the world.

As for red flags, avoid creative writing classes that are focused on grades, worksheets, or copying model essays. These may improve test scores but rarely cultivate creativity or critical thinking. Also, be cautious if a class promises quick results, lacks student writing time, or offers little to no personal feedback.

A rigid, one-size-fits-all syllabus is another warning sign, because good writing teachers adapt to their students’ needs. At the end of the day, the best creative writing class is one where your child feels encouraged, challenged, and excited to keep writing.

How do I choose a good composition writing class for my child?

For a child who is struggling with English compositions or aiming to improve exam performance, a suitable composition writing class should do three things:

1. Teach strategy
In the case of national exams like the PSLE, examiners look for clear structure, logical flow, and confident, accurate use of English. This would include grammar, vocabulary, and sentence variety.

Bearing this in mind, look for composition classes that teach planning methods such as the five-part story arc — a proven structure that guides students through an introduction, build-up, climax, falling action, and conclusion. This helps students to avoid common mistakes like abrupt endings or aimless plots.

Good composition classes should also cover how to build tension, vary sentence structure, and use literary devices that examiners reward.

2. Align with the latest syllabus
When you visit a composition writing school, ask this question: How do you keep your materials in sync with MOE guidelines?

Some centres review and update their lesson content regularly, incorporating past-year national exam questions, new composition formats (if any), and themes drawn from school-based assignments.

3. Provide clear and actionable feedback 
For composition writing, improvement comes from being told exactly what to fix, and how.

A solid composition writing programme should give students regular marked work with margin notes, model rewrites, and guidance like: “This sentence is vague. What action or feeling can you show instead?”

One standout practice: some teachers give students a personal list of weak spots (e.g. tense shifts, weak conclusions, vocabulary repeats) to track over time, helping kids take ownership of their progress.

In fact, when you visit a composition writing school, ask to see a sample marked script. This can show you the teacher’s expectations, depth of feedback, and whether the student was clearly guided to improve.

Should I choose an MOE-approved writing class for my child?

If you are sending your child to an enrichment centre for drop-off classes, then yes, it’s probably wiser to look for a centre that has registered with Singapore’s Ministry of Education (MOE).

Just so that you’re aware, the MOE registers private schools based on the following factors:

• Basic statutory requirements, such as building and fire safety requirements
• Acceptable curriculum
• Qualified teachers

You can check if your school of interest is listed on the MOE website.

However, please note that MOE registration does not represent any sort of “approval” or endorsement of the quality of enrichment classes. You will need to do your own research, find out more about the school, and check the terms and conditions carefully before enrolling your child.

Where can I sign my child up for a writing class?

Below are 20 writing schools that you can consider.

For online classes conducted by an overseas teacher, timings may be slightly unusual (i.e. late nights or early mornings). You can check if your child is willing to accommodate these timings during the school term or school holidays, or request a different time slot from the instructor.

Want to chat with other parents about writing classes? Join the conversation on the KiasuParents forum!