Poetry in Practice with Laurie Bolger

Bringing creativity into the classroom took centre stage recently as our Year 13 HL English Language and Literature and IB Literature students welcomed visiting poet Laurie Bolger for an inspiring workshop on the creative writing process.

Using an eclectic collection of miniature objects as writing stimuli, Laurie challenged students to look beyond the obvious, consider the absurd and discover unexpected connections in their ideas.

One highlight of the workshop was the creation of haikus accompanied by original visual responses. By combining words and images, students explored how different forms of expression can work together to shape interpretation and communicate ideas. The process demonstrated how creativity often emerges from experimentation.

Laurie’s workshop also provided valuable links to students’ academic studies. As IB English students, understanding the relationship between authorial choices and the construction of meaning is central to their learning. Experiencing the creative process first-hand gave students a deeper appreciation of the decisions writers make.

Most importantly, the session reminded students that creativity can be playful, collaborative and enjoyable. Filled with laughter, imaginative thinking and thoughtful discussion, the workshop offered a refreshing opportunity for students to engage with literature from a writer’s perspective while developing skills that will support both their creative and critical work in IB English. The addition of ice cream vouchers as prizes were an excellent incentive also!

We are grateful to Laurie Bolger for sharing her expertise and enthusiasm, and for providing such a memorable and thought-provoking experience for our students.