Ideas Test, in partnership with the Sittingbourne’s Steam Railway, is seeking a dynamic and engaging writer to become our Writer in Residence for a year-long commission celebrating the rich history and vibrant present of this beloved heritage railway.

About the Project:

This exciting opportunity coincides with significant milestones: the 200th anniversary of the railway’s broader history and the 120th anniversary of steam trains at the Kemsley paper mill. We are looking for a writer who can capture the unique spirit of the railway and its community, bringing its stories to life for a diverse audience.

Our Aims:

  • Celebrate Heritage: To commemorate the railway’s historical significance, particularly the 120 years of steam at the paper mill and 200 Years of railway history.
  • Engage New Audiences: To increase footfall and attract visitors to the railway, fostering a deeper connection with the local community.
  • Animate the Space: To develop creative content that enhances the visitor experience, potentially through QR codes, audio experiences, or other interactive elements such as talk-backs
  • Educational Outreach: To work with Ideas Test to engage young people in schools and workshops through creative writing.
  • Raise Awareness: To be open to giving interviews and written articles to include in local and national publications and on radio.

What We’re Looking For:

We welcome applications from writers of all disciplines, including:

  • Novelists
  • Short story writers
  • Poets
  • Songwriters
  • Playwrights

We are particularly interested in writers who demonstrate experience in or a passion for:

  • Heritage and community engagement
  • Comfortable working in public settings and engaging with diverse audiences
  • Openness to collaborating with other artists and community groups (e.g., photography, crafting, model railway)
  • Ideally, local to the Kent area
  • Willingness to attend the railway’s events throughout the year

Important Considerations:

  • We are open to a wide range of creative approaches, but we wish to avoid themes related to war or evacuation if possible
  • The writer will be expected to attend various events throughout the year, including: Steam and Beer (music event), BTS day in May, Pirate weekend (Sheppey Pirates), end of season Gala weekend, Wild West weekend, and the car show.

Commission Details:

  • The commission will run for approximately one year from (May 2025 – May 2026)
  • The writer will be expected to attend events and engage with the railway throughout the year.
  • The writer will receive a £7,500 commission that is to cover all research, writing time, travel and accommodation if necessary. 

How to Apply:

Send the following details to wayne@ideastest.co.uk, using the subject title “Sittingbourne’s Steam Railway – Writer In Residence Application”.

Please submit:

  • A cover letter outlining your interest in the project and your relevant experience.
  • A proposal outlining your creative approach and potential project ideas.
  • Samples of your writing and previous projects (please send URL links to videos and [passwords if required, and samples of work should be no longer than 3000 words)

Deadline for application: 11th May, 11.59pm

We look forward to receiving your applications and discovering the creative stories you will bring to the Sittingbourne’s Steam Railway.

Sittingbourne's Steam Railway Website