Can I re-enter Canada using a different passport due to visa delays?

[dongapko1]

I'm an international student and I had to get my study permit renewed because my passport expired. I have both Chinese and British passports, but the study permit is tied to the Chinese one. I've renewed my study permit but I'm currently waiting for my new visa application to be approved. Problem is, I'm flying abroad next week to attend some conferences that are pretty important for my research. I've already told IRCC about my plans and that I will probably have to change my visa application from 'inside Canada' to 'outside Canada' etc. However, there are several personal reasons why I would really rather not have to wait too long before returning, so I wanted to ask if it would possible for me to return to Canada on my *British* passport as a *tourist* while my visa application is in progress, and then leave and re-enter on my Chinese passport once my visa gets approved. I imagine that, if this would be permissible, I wouldn't be able to study in Canada while here as a tourist, but that I can accept, as well as any other reasonable caveats. I just want to know if this would be an option. Thanks!