Library and the Sixth Form Study Centre

The aim of the Library is to encourage independent, inquisitive and informed learners by promoting reading for pleasure and information in a vibrant space where all are welcome. 

Situated in a bright, airy, purpose-built building with a dedicated Sixth Form Study Centre, the aim of the Library is to promote reading for both pleasure and information throughout life. There is a full time Chartered Librarian and a part-time Library Assistant to help pupils find and utilise resources.

A wide range of stock supports both the academic and recreational interests of all pupils, including fiction and non-fiction books, DVDs, magazines, newspapers, games and puzzles as well as a growing and comprehensive range of online resources. Sixth Formers have exclusive use of the study centre, on the first floor, which holds additional resources to support the A level curriculum and beyond. The Librarian works closely with teaching staff to ensure the stock is always up to date and relevant to the curriculum requirements of all Key Stages and also caters for extra-curricular interests. Wi-Fi access is available throughout and, in addition, there are networked computers and printers/copiers/scanners for pupil use.

The Library is open before, during and after the school day, allowing pupils to use the facilities for homework, research and reading for pleasure. Classes and individuals visit to investigate topics and find resources during the school day, when Library staff are available to introduce them to specific collections and to teach information literacy skills. All new pupils are given an introduction to the Library and the Library staff produce help guides and reading lists to help pupils make the most of the resources available. The Library also produces a termly enrichment booklet with details of local exhibitions and museums to enhance knowledge of the wider curriculum.

We welcome pupil recommendations for additions to the Library and purchase wherever appropriate. Pupils are encouraged to write book reviews for publication on our Firefly VLE page to share their reading experience with others.

The Library runs a wide range of events to promote reading and learning, including workshops with celebrated authors: Stephen Davies, Stewart Ross and Matt Dickinson have all visited recently. The Library hosts the Russell Talks series of presentations for the Senior School and our pupils in year 6, and all pupils and staff are encouraged to volunteer for additional talks to share their enthusiasm and knowledge for a variety of topics both within and beyond the curriculum.

Pupils also have the opportunity to take part in national writing and poetry competitions which are advertised and promoted by the Library. The Library works in conjunction with the English department to organise poetry and prose festivals to encourage and reward creativity.

The Library regularly marks World Book Day, Black History Month, Chinese New Year and other key dates with special events, competitions, displays and celebrations. Selected pupils in years 7 and 8 are invited to take part in the Trinity Schools’ Book Award scheme each year and attend the award ceremony at the host school. The Library is pleased to support the school’s Duke of Edinburgh scheme by offering volunteering opportunities for pupils.

Each Friday we end the week with our Puzzles and Games club. Popular with younger pupils, the club enables pupils to have fun, improve their logical thinking and problem-solving skills and form friendships with pupils from all year groups.