The Library

When can students use the library?

Students are welcome to use the library at break and lunchtimes to study independently, read for pleasure, play board games and participate in library activities.  Students may use the computers and priority is given to those who wish to complete homework.

The library is also used by groups of students during lessons, for research.

There are a range of lunchtime activities offered to students in the library that vary each day and throughout the year, and the librarian seeks to respond to student interests and suggestions. Currently these are animation, art/craft, colouring, Uno and Film Club. Other activities have included a reading group to shadow the Carnegie Book Awards, Lego, Knitting Ninjas, and Wizarding World (Harry Potter Fan Club).

Whenever possible the librarian provides the opportunity to meet popular, current children’s authors. This year, Andy Briggs entertained us with fascinating tales from his time spent in Africa exploring ideas for his Tarzan series of books (including smelling Gorillas’ breath!). He challenged our assumptions about the role of a writer, as we found out more about his varied career as an author, and screenwriter.

Library Lessons

All students in years 7, 8 & 9 have a library lesson every fortnight, which is devoted to personal reading and activities that promote reading.

Year 7 and 8 students take part in the Accelerated Reader programme. They read and quiz their Accelerated Reader books during their library lesson.

What is Accelerated Reader?

Accelerated Reader is a programme for monitoring and managing independent reading practice while promoting reading for pleasure. The idea is to engage students, motivate reading practice, and improve reading progress. This happens through English lessons, a dedicated library lesson, and a weekly form time set aside for individual reading.

The student reads a book that is the appropriate reading level for them and then takes an online quiz about their book. This can be done in any break or lunchtime in the library, or during library lessons.

There is a website called AR Bookfinder that students can use to see whether their books can be quizzed. Books from the school library, home and public libraries can all be quizzed, as can e-books, but the quiz can only be taken in school.

If you would like to check whether there is an Accelerated Reader quiz before choosing your next book, go to http://www.arbookfind.co.uk/