Mark Grist’s Visit: A Different Way to Learn Literature｜解锁文学的多种学习方式
At Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi, literature is experienced in creative and practical ways. Students explore stories, experiment with language and express their ideas through writing, performance and discussion. Working with professional writers and poets gives students direct insight into how language can inform, challenge and inspire.
This approach is brought to life through our long-term collaboration with Mark Grist, a renowned British poet, storyteller and educator. Visiting the school annually, Mark supports students across different year groups, helping them develop confidence, creativity and a deeper understanding of language.
“We have been working with Mark for several years now and with each visit, the students' work becomes stronger and more creative. We always have fun during Mark's workshops, and it's great to see students engaging with poetry across the school.”——Amy Uffindall，Head of English
Early Years & Years 1–2
- Stories, Play and Imagination -
Last Friday, Mark captivated our youngest learners in Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 with readings from his beloved books Rhinos Don't Cry and Bears Don't Get Scared. The sessions sparked imagination as students explored themes of emotions and courage through engaging storytelling. Following the readings, students channelled their creativity into artwork and crafted their own rhymes.
“The children in Early Years thoroughly enjoyed Mark Grist's reading of his stories Rhinos Don't Cry and Bears Don't Get Scared. His animated and expressive approach to storytelling kept the children excited and fully engaged throughout the session. They particularly enjoyed hearing about Mark's pet pug dog, which inspired his first story, Rhinos Don't Cry. Following the reading, the children took part in related craft activities, including making Bella the Bear and Milo the Rhino masks. ”——Renee Lawson，Early Years Phase Leader, Reception Teacher
“Mark Grist's visit to Year 1 and 2 was a real highlight. The children were engaged throughout his storytelling, and they loved the rhyme activities. They were enthusiastic, participated eagerly and left excited about literature and language. It was great to see them so motivated and keen to write their own stories.”——Kate Kelly，Key Stage 1 Phase Leader,Year 1 Teacher
Years 10–11
- Literature Through a New Lens -
Mark then shifted focus to Year 10 and 11 GCSE students, guiding them through poetry analysis. This session offered insights into poetic techniques and interpretation, supporting examination preparation while deepening students' appreciation of the craft.
Year 10 student Deklan L said, 'It was great to work with Mark Grist and to hear a poet's interpretation of his own work.'
Years 6–7
- Creating Original Poetry -
On Monday, Mark returned to lead rap and poetry workshops with Year 6 and 7 students, part of Puxi's transition programme. The interactive sessions encouraged collaboration and self-expression, with students working together to create original verses and discover their poetic voices.
“Year 6 fully embraced the visit by Mark Grist. His enthusiasm for poetry and word wizardry was replicated by the children. Year 6 engaged in a rap battle, 'The Pen vs. The Sword'. The children produced challenging rhyming poems, whilst trying to battle against their rival. During their performances the children were challenged in their speed, projection of voice and presentation. After their battles, the children worked independently on personification and wrote poems using figurative language bringing abstract nouns to life. Students were keen to share and discuss the poems they created. A truly inspiring and enjoyable day for all.”——Gregg Chappell，Upper Key Stage 2 Phase Leader,Year 5 Teacher
Why This Matters
Learning literature is about more than academic outcomes; it is a pathway to communication, empathy, creativity and confidence. Working with professional writers like Mark Grist allows students to see literature as a living art form.
Throughout his visit, Mark's engaging approach created an atmosphere of fun and creativity, showing how poetry can be accessible and exciting for learners of all ages. His continued partnership with Dulwich Puxi reflects our commitment to providing students with enriching opportunities to develop creative literacy and confidence in self-expression.
