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David is a specialist English teacher and performer of poetry, working in schools since 2000. He inspires pupils aged 3 to 18 years. When not in the nation’s primary and secondary schools, he takes time out to help home-educate his six children. They all escape in a large campervan to other parts of Europe where, whilst his own children study their English, Maths and Science, David absconds to a local cafe to pen the latest novel or poetry collection. Under the blue skies and bright sunshine, he must also come up with new original ideas for teaching his school classes - it appears he needs to be inspired too! Performance for all ages As a children’s author, performance poet and storyteller, I can provide sessions of up to one hour to blow away any misconceptions of a dull English day ahead, through inspiring pupils. These sessions develop empathy with the audience and build credibility with the pupils, some or all of whom I will later engage with on an academic front. My audiences have varied from 20 to more than 300 over the years in schools, theatres, festivals, libraries and bookshops. Pupils 4-8 years A unique drama/creative writing package where younger pupils (YR to Y3) will follow up drama with speaking and listening exercises, expanding vocabulary, lending confidence and developing oral skills whilst enjoying themselves at the same time. I have written six dramas, developing them according to the needs of pupils. Titles include “Queen Oak”, “Nana’s Secret Garden” and “The Elf who sang the King to sleep”. Pupils 8-18 years A challenging drama/creative writing package where pupils respond to the out of classroom experience, many being inspired by the subject for the first time ever. Timetable as for younger pupils but with more emphasis on written work. The package (30 pupils per day) teaches generic skills in writing which are applicable not only to the fiction explored in the drama but to all genres of writing. Annual Programme - Writer in Residence The package (30 pupils per day) may become part of the School Development Plan targeting a particular class or year group with specific needs in creative writing, focussing on speaking and listening. REFERENCES: Professor David Burnett - Deputy Head, Westcliff High School for Boys “The impact on our students has been obvious. You know you are on to a winner when around 40 Year 11 students are not going out at break time but staying with David Mason to finish their poems and asking, like modern-day Oliver Twists, “please sir, can we have some more?” The answer had to be “yes” and we brought David Mason back for workshops we had not originally planned. Inspired by the experiences we have had teachers and students, including partner primary schools’ students, writing and performing poetry for a packed hall of friends and family. The best thing is that we have only just begun and the future looks to be even more exciting.” Sonia Bober - Assistant Head, Maple Infant School, Kingston “David’s visit made our day truly special. His engaging performances left children buzzing with enthusiasm for drama and writing, and the teachers with more ideas for their own teaching and desire to read more poetry. David is truly inspirational. With just words, we took the children on a mysterious journey which inspired them to produce writing of excellent quality. David’s unquestionable love for words and drama, have rubbed off on the children and the staff. We will definitely have him back!” Caroline Sharma Literacy Co-ordinator, Cheam Common Junior School, Sutton “You connected so well with staff and children alike - we all feel like we have known you for ages! It particularly bought some much needed relief and light to some very weary year 6 staff and children. To see them so captivated by you and your work was a pleasure to see. We have certainly learnt a lot from you and year 6 are going to have a go at performing a poem in the style of you very soon! We are also looking forward to trying out some of the drama ideas and writing suggestions you provided.” BOOK LIST: “Midnight Mystery” Reading Age 8-12 On an ordinary holiday, Abbey and Leo make a very extraordinary discovery. They are drawn into the darkness behind the mysterious blue door and find themselves caught up in a life or death situation from which there is no escape… “Learning to Fly” Reading Age 11-14 “I’m me and no one else. That’s why you hate me, because I won’t act like you.” Some things in life are so scary you just have to escape them. That’s when - boy or girl - you must learn to fly… “The Elf who sang the King to Sleep” New fables and tales Reading Age 7-12 Imagine a timeless land where darkness never falls and people do not sleep. Imagine a kingdom over which reigns a rabbit. Discover the secrets of toad life, how to make everlasting chocolate cake and understand how a boy’s best friend is a talking oak tree. “The White Book” Poetry collection Reading Age 9-16 “Two into One ” Children’s poetry collection 2006 Reading Age 7-12 Combination of the best poems from two former publications: “Living in Another World” and “The Great Sweetshop Robbery” “Metaphor Man” Children’s Poetry Reading Age 9-16 “Go Teddy Go!” Poetry/Songs CD 40 minutes “Signing On” Collection of poetry suitable for upper secondary schools and adults Website: www.InspireToWrite.co.uk david-mason.doc