Raymond Soltysek’s first short story collection, Occasional Demons, was shortlisted for the Saltire First Book award. The film of his first screenplay, The Practicality of Magnolia, won two BAFTA New Talent awards, including Best TV Drama, and was nominated in the Best Screenplay category. He has also worked extensively with BBC Education, most notably in the production of two drama adaptations based on Robert Jenkins’ The Cone-gatherers, and has produced materials to support writing development in secondary schools through Education Scotland.
Born in Barrhead to his Polish father and English mother, he graduated with an Honours degree in English Literature and Philosophy from Glasgow University, qualified as an English teacher from Jordanhill College, and obtained a Master of Education in Curriculum and Management. He has been a Principal Teacher of English in three secondary schools and an Acting Assistant Head Teacher. In 2001, he joined the University of Strathclyde, where he lectures in the School of Education.