A North Shropshire College adult learner is celebrating the success of his creative writing, with his work appearing in literary anthologies following a series of achievements in prestigious writing competitions.
Phil, who studies creative writing at North Shropshire College in Oswestry, has seen his writing published in several anthologies and continues to pursue opportunities to develop his work.
In 2025, after just his first course, Phil was shortlisted for the Oxford Flash Fiction Prize, an international competition attracting entries from writers around the world. His short story, Magnetic Porridge, was selected for publication in Dugout, the competition’s anthology, which features stories from writers across Great Britain and Ireland, as well as Australia, the USA, Cambodia, Mexico and Canada.
Phil has also had several short stories included in three anthologies published by Sonder Publishing: Avon Brook Hotel, Pop Fiction 1960s/70s and Ashes.
He continues to actively enter creative writing competitions, with several pieces currently submitted to prestigious competitions receiving entries from writer worldwide. Phil is also working on longer pieces and hopes to explore further publishing opportunities in the future.
Phil credits the teaching and guidance he has received through the creative writing courses taught by Kate Long at North Shropshire College as an important part of his development as a writer.
His achievements are a fantastic example of how adult learning can help people develop their skills, build confidence and pursue their passions at any stage of life.
Phil said: “None of this would have happened without the teaching and guidance which I have received on the various courses which Kate Long has taught to adult Learners.”
North Shropshire College offers a range of courses and opportunities for adults in Oswestry and the surrounding area, supporting learners to develop new skills, explore interests and continue learning throughout life. Visit hlnsc.ac.uk to find out more