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Frequently asked questions
This is my first visit to Swanwick - is it easy to make friends?
Swanwick is famous for the warmth of its welcome, especially to new members. Seasoned Swanwickers will be happy to help you find your way around - and will love sharing reminiscences with you about their own first year at the School!
Am I expected to go to everything on the programme?
Absolutely not. In fact, we recommend you to pace yourself when first visiting Swanwick. There is so much going on that you could forget to relax and enjoy the experience. This is YOUR week, so it is up to you how you spend it.
Will I have to decide in advance which course I want to attend?
No - one of the many unrivalled features of Swanwick is that you are under no obligation to 'sign up' for any of our courses or workshops in advance. You can make your mind up on the day and attend whichever one appeals to you most.
Can I switch to a different course/workshop if I change my mind?
If you find after the first session that this isn't the course or workshop for you, the tutor will quite understand if you switch to another. However, you may find it difficult to catch up if you change mid-stream. Your best plan is to read up on the content of each course/workshop first via the website, in the programme booklet or in the Information Room at the Hayes.
I use a wheelchair to get around. Can the summer school accommodate me?
Yes it can! The Hayes Conference Centre has wheelchair access to all the main buildings and halls, and offers accommodation specifically designed for delegates with disabilities, including adapted doors and space for wheelchair users, the provision of alarm pull-cords and specially designed showers and bathroom suites.
I'd rather not share a room - do I have to pay a supplement?
Not at all. All accommodation areas at the Hayes are let out on a 'single occupancy' basis, despite most rooms having double or twin beds. However, if you do want to share your room with a friend or partner, each of you will need to pay on a 'per person' basis.
I loved the room I had last year but have forgotten the number - help!
No problem. Our Secretary automatically allocates you the same room again unless you have asked for an alternative. Unfortunately, we can’t promise to keep it for you indefinitely so please book as early as you can.
I need to keep up with my emails - is there WiFi available?
Yes, in all areas (including bedrooms), at no charge.
Should I bring extra cash or can I pay by card during the week?
There is currently no ATM or credit/debit card payment facility at the Hayes, so you may prefer to bring enough money with you to pay for books, drinks in the bar, purchases in the shop etc, during your stay. Cheque payments (supported by a debit card) are still acceptable in our Book Room and in the Hayes shop. Alternatively, there are cashpoint facilities in the village of Swanwick itself.
I am under 18 - are there any 'rules' about my attending Swanwick?
Nothing gives us greater pleasure than to welcome young writers to the School. Our only proviso is that you must be aged at least 16 and accompanied by an adult delegate during your stay. Both of you will need to book in and pay for your Swanwick places (please let us know the name of the adult delegate who is accompanying you).
Are you able to cater for special dietary needs or preferences?
Indeed we can. Simply fill in your particular dietary need or preference (including food allergies) on your Booking Form and we will liaise with the Hayes in advance. On arrival, you will be given a card to take into the dining hall - simply show this to a member of staff and they will ensure that you are served with an appropriate meal.
If the answer to your question isn't here, please contact the Secretary through the online enquiry form.
Swanwick is famous for the warmth of its welcome, especially to new members. Seasoned Swanwickers will be happy to help you find your way around - and will love sharing reminiscences with you about their own first year at the School!
Am I expected to go to everything on the programme?
Absolutely not. In fact, we recommend you to pace yourself when first visiting Swanwick. There is so much going on that you could forget to relax and enjoy the experience. This is YOUR week, so it is up to you how you spend it.
Will I have to decide in advance which course I want to attend?
No - one of the many unrivalled features of Swanwick is that you are under no obligation to 'sign up' for any of our courses or workshops in advance. You can make your mind up on the day and attend whichever one appeals to you most.
Can I switch to a different course/workshop if I change my mind?
If you find after the first session that this isn't the course or workshop for you, the tutor will quite understand if you switch to another. However, you may find it difficult to catch up if you change mid-stream. Your best plan is to read up on the content of each course/workshop first via the website, in the programme booklet or in the Information Room at the Hayes.
I use a wheelchair to get around. Can the summer school accommodate me?
Yes it can! The Hayes Conference Centre has wheelchair access to all the main buildings and halls, and offers accommodation specifically designed for delegates with disabilities, including adapted doors and space for wheelchair users, the provision of alarm pull-cords and specially designed showers and bathroom suites.
I'd rather not share a room - do I have to pay a supplement?
Not at all. All accommodation areas at the Hayes are let out on a 'single occupancy' basis, despite most rooms having double or twin beds. However, if you do want to share your room with a friend or partner, each of you will need to pay on a 'per person' basis.
I loved the room I had last year but have forgotten the number - help!
No problem. Our Secretary automatically allocates you the same room again unless you have asked for an alternative. Unfortunately, we can’t promise to keep it for you indefinitely so please book as early as you can.
I need to keep up with my emails - is there WiFi available?
Yes, in all areas (including bedrooms), at no charge.
Should I bring extra cash or can I pay by card during the week?
There is currently no ATM or credit/debit card payment facility at the Hayes, so you may prefer to bring enough money with you to pay for books, drinks in the bar, purchases in the shop etc, during your stay. Cheque payments (supported by a debit card) are still acceptable in our Book Room and in the Hayes shop. Alternatively, there are cashpoint facilities in the village of Swanwick itself.
I am under 18 - are there any 'rules' about my attending Swanwick?
Nothing gives us greater pleasure than to welcome young writers to the School. Our only proviso is that you must be aged at least 16 and accompanied by an adult delegate during your stay. Both of you will need to book in and pay for your Swanwick places (please let us know the name of the adult delegate who is accompanying you).
Are you able to cater for special dietary needs or preferences?
Indeed we can. Simply fill in your particular dietary need or preference (including food allergies) on your Booking Form and we will liaise with the Hayes in advance. On arrival, you will be given a card to take into the dining hall - simply show this to a member of staff and they will ensure that you are served with an appropriate meal.
If the answer to your question isn't here, please contact the Secretary through the online enquiry form.
