The Seamus Heaney Poetry Summer School is an annual intensive week of creative development for emerging poets, with seminars, workshops and one-to-one tutorials, alongside a programme of readings and other evening events. Time is scheduled for writing and the development of new work, as well as to explore and engage with the rich literary networks in the city.

The Poetry Summer School is led each year by Professor Nick Laird, featuring guest tutors from the Seamus Heaney Centre and beyond. In 2026, this will be held between Monday 22 - Friday 26 June 2026. Applications are open from Thursday 1st January - Tuesday 31 March 2026. Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application by Wednesday 1st May 2026.

Places are strictly competitive and open to applicants over the age of 18 only. 

Applicants must complete this form and email a sample of four poems (word doc or pdf) to shc@qub.ac.uk with the subject heading POETRY SUMMER SCHOOL for their application to be considered. Your application cannot be considered if you have not completed the application form and submitted your poems. 

FEE
£750.00
Some bursaries are available, for those who would otherwise be unable to participate, and subsidized accommodation will be available at the university. In 2025, subsidized university accommodation cost approximately £55 per night. 

Please submit any queries to shc@qub.ac.uk