Library
Introduction
The SJL Library is a welcoming, calm but busy space within the school. We run quizzes, events and reading challenges throughout the year, contributing to a whole-school reading culture. Our intent is to support pupils’ academic needs and beyond, to foster a reading for pleasure habit that hopefully will last a lifetime. Library lessons allows all students to develop independent learning and research skills, as well as giving students dedicated time to read. We have around 13000 books in the Library, along with 41 computers and 15 iPads, a large selection of DVDs to support the curriculum, and accessible reading material to support struggling readers (including audiobooks, large print and dyslexia-friendly formats).
The Library is open from 8:40am until 5:00pm every day and is run by our Librarian, Mrs Ramos. We also have a fantastic team of student Library Assistants who run the desk at lunchtimes, in addition to parent volunteers who assist with shelving and administrative tasks.
Students are at the centre of all we do in the Library – from suggesting new resources and manning the desk at lunch, to our termly Library Users’ Group meetings.
Borrowing
Students are able to borrow up to four books, and one DVD or audiobook, for two weeks at a time. We have dedicated sections for children’s/young adult fiction (including the following genres: Fantasy, Sci-Fi/Dystopia, Mystery/Crime, Horror/Thriller, Romance, Adventure, Mental Health/Contemporary, Humour), non-fiction and Graphic novels. We also have regularly changing displays throughout the year to showcase books on different topics and connect to festive UK celebrations too.
Challenges and competitions
These include:
Big Challenge
Every other year (next being 2025/2026), we challenge students and staff to read as many books as they can in a year – certificates are awarded for anyone who reads 52 books (gold), 39 books (silver) or 26 books (bronze)!
Year 7 challenge
We create a ‘Read around the genres’ bingo list that is a year-long reading challenge designed to engage Year 7 students in exploring a variety of book genres from our Library! Every other year (next in 2026/2027).
Year 8 challenge
We encourage Year 8 students to participate of our ‘Reading around the world’ Library passport. The intention is to expand their cultural awareness and curiosity by accessing stories that are set at different countries, real or imaginary places, pushing them to read outside their comfort zone. Every other year (next in 2026/2027).
Year 9 challenge
To support the curriculum in English, we challenge Year 9 students in autumn term to read a dystopian novel, a ‘real society’ novel, and a novel of their own choice.
We also run regular themed competitions and quizzes for students throughout the year.
Electronic resources
We provide access to a variety of electronic resources, such as JSTOR, Newspapers for Schools, and Dynamic Learning A Level magazines.
Homework Club
Homework Club runs every day in the Library after school from 3:30pm until 5pm. Students are welcome to drop in – there’s no need to book, you do not have to go every day but you can if you want. The Teacher Assistants Abi Ellis and Lynn Forrester will be always there and also plenty of staff around to help students. This is a great opportunity to use the computers and printers and to get advice from staff on how best to complete your homework.
