Libraries
Prep School Library
Throughout the Prep School you will find fiction and non-fiction books in classrooms and on bookshelves along corridors, tempting children to grab something new as they pass by. There is a cosy picture-book corner where our youngest children can curl up on a bean bag and enjoy books in their own space, and a well stocked library for Years 3-8, run by our librarian, Mrs Culwick.
Our library aims to develop and encourage a love of reading for pleasure as well as supporting the wider curriculum. We have a range of fiction and non-fiction books for children to enjoy during the school day, borrow to read at home, and to support topic work in class.
The library is a busy space with each year group having timetabled lessons each week. Younger children enjoy story times and choosing books to take home, while older children are encouraged to chat about the books they have read, have a quiet time to read, or to get help in finding their next book. It is also home to popular after-school clubs - Read and Relax, Creative Writing, and Book Club.
"I love simply hanging out in the library, reading a book, and relaxing with my friends." Year 5 Pupil
The library is open at break time and over lunch for Years 3-8 to enjoy – reading books, playing board games, or enjoying a quieter space to catch up with friends or just relax. There are study tables alongside comfy reading areas, all designed to create a relaxed atmosphere - a place for creativity, reflection, education and inspiration. It is looked after by our dedicated and experienced librarian who loves to help children discover a passion for reading, help them find their next book and introduce them to new genres, authors and titles.
"It's a comfy place to be with hundreds of books: you can ask for help or simply browse the shelves!" Year 6 Pupil
The Cuthbertson Learning Resource Centre - Senior School
The Senior School Library is a treasure trove of books and other material supporting learning and teaching across the school.
It is a welcoming, quiet space where pupils can come to read, research and study. There are regular class visits as well as library clubs and events.
The library contains around 30,000 fiction and non-fiction books, including the latest publications such as the Yoto Carnegies book awards.
The two librarians encourage reading for pleasure and are always happy to help find the right book for you.
The librarians also teach research skills including:
- Navigating online information sources
- Critical thinking
- Data collection and analysis
- Report writing
- EPQ Extended Project Qualification
ICT Resource Centres
There are three ICT suites at the Senior School, including one in the DT department, with a separate ICT room for the Sixth Form. The suites are open all day, and in the evenings there are supervised sessions for pupils to catch up on prep.