The Story Behind Braniara

We started with a simple belief: every writer has incredible stories waiting to be told. What they need are the right tools and techniques to bring those stories to life.

Our Journey

Back in 2021, I kept meeting writers who had fantastic ideas but struggled with plot structure. They'd start strong, then hit walls around the middle chapters. The same problems kept coming up: sagging middles, unclear character motivations, and endings that didn't feel earned.

That's when we decided to create something different. Not another generic writing course, but focused training on the specific mechanics of plot development. We wanted to break down the process into clear, manageable steps that writers could actually apply to their own projects.

What started as weekend workshops in Leicester has grown into comprehensive programs that help writers across the UK develop stronger storytelling skills. We've seen debut novelists land publishing deals and screenwriters get their scripts optioned because they learned how to structure compelling narratives.

Writing workshop session with participants working on plot development exercises

Students collaborating on story structure diagrams during workshop

Practical Focus

We teach plot development through hands-on exercises, not abstract theory. Every technique gets tested on real story problems that writers bring to class.

Detailed plot outline and character development charts spread across a desk

Structured Approach

Our methods break complex storytelling concepts into clear steps. Writers learn systematic approaches they can apply to any genre or format.

Individual consultation session showing personalized feedback on manuscript structure

Individual Support

Every writer works differently. We provide personalized guidance to help each participant develop their unique storytelling voice and style.

Ingrid Ashworth

Creative Director

Meet Our Founder

I spent years working as a script reader for independent film companies, reading hundreds of screenplays each month. The same structural problems appeared again and again. Great concepts would fall apart because writers hadn't learned the fundamentals of plot development. That experience taught me exactly what separates compelling stories from ones that don't work.

After helping several writers completely restructure their projects – and seeing them go on to find success – I realized there was a real need for specialized plot development training. Writers don't just need encouragement; they need concrete tools and techniques they can rely on.

What Drives Us

Our approach is built on principles we've refined through years of working with writers at every level of experience.

Clarity Over Complexity

We believe the best teaching makes difficult concepts simple and accessible. Our workshops focus on clear explanations and practical examples rather than academic jargon. Writers leave with tools they can use immediately, not theories they need to decode.

Close-up of detailed story notes and plot development worksheets

Evidence-Based Methods

Our techniques are tested with real writers working on actual projects. We track what works and refine what doesn't.

Respect for Individual Vision

Every writer has their own voice and creative instincts. We teach structural principles that support individual creativity rather than forcing writers into rigid formulas. The goal is to give you reliable tools while preserving what makes your stories unique.

We've worked with mystery writers, literary fiction authors, screenwriters, and children's book creators. The core principles of plot development apply across genres, but the application should reflect each writer's personal style and goals.

Long-term Skill Building

Our programs are designed to develop skills writers can use throughout their careers. We focus on teaching underlying principles rather than quick fixes, so participants can tackle any future project with confidence.

Honest Feedback

We provide direct, constructive criticism that helps writers improve. Growth happens when you understand what's working and what isn't in your current draft.