The Library

The library is a large, inclusive, and nurturing space located on the ground floor. The library is staffed by a librarian, and students are welcome to use the library’s facilities during break and lunchtime. After school, the library is open exclusively for Year 11 students to provide an independent study space.

The more you read, The more you know.
The more you know, The smarter you grow.
The smarter you grow, The stronger your voice,
When speaking your mind, Or making a choice.

Opening Hours

Monday to Friday: 9.30 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.

Collection

We have a large collection of over 17,000 books which cover an extensive range of both non-fiction and fiction texts.

Non-Fiction

Our library stores an abundance of non-fiction books which supports student’s understanding of curriculum subjects. They also foster curiosity and allow students to follow their individual interests and passions. Our non-fiction books are organised according to the Dewey Decimal system.

Fiction

Our collection of fiction books includes a wide range of authors and genres, including graphic novels, comic books, classics, and poetry. The collection is regularly updated with new books to ensure we represent and celebrate inclusion and diversity. The fiction section is currently organised alphabetically by author order. We are in the process of separating the books into age groups. They will be organised into three age groups – MY (Middle Years) for Year 7 upwards, MY+ for over 12s and UY (Upper Years) for over 14s.

Facilities

In addition to our ample collection of books, we also have a large teaching area with tables and chairs and a library laptop which connects to a visualiser. There are 8 computers, 8 laptops and a student printer available to support independent study. There is also an intervention room for small group work and reading intervention.

Go All In – The National Year of Reading

This year we are excited to celebrate the National Year of Reading and aspire to complete the Go All In Participation Award. To kick start the National Year of Reading we are asking all students to complete a reading for pleasure survey to gain valuable information about their views on reading. We will use the results to tailor the library environment to meet the diverse needs and interests of our students.

Unfortunately, teenage reading enjoyment and daily reading frequency are at their lowest levels in 20 years.

“This limits life chances and choices. Reading for pleasure and empowerment makes us more aware and informed. It helps us grow our imaginations. It makes us more empathetic and understanding of other people and cultures. It supports our health and wellbeing. It increases our ability to learn new skills. It helps us to communicate our ideas more effectively. It opens doors. It brings joy.” (Reading Agency)

We believe that every child has the right to be a reader and are fully committed to work with our students to understand their interests, passions, and barriers to reading so we can tailor the provision to encourage a love of reading.

Library Assistant Team

We have a passionate and dedicated team of student library assistants. The library assistants volunteer some of their lunchtime to help with the day to day running of the library. Some of their responsibilities include, helping other students find the book they are looking for, making book recommendations, and writing book reviews. In addition to this, they also help keep the bookshelves and library tidy. We are grateful for their help.

Librarian

If you need any support in the library, you can ask Miss Terrey, our full-time librarian. Miss Terrey is a qualified Teacher with over 10 years’ experience teaching Literacy and is always happy to help.

Oliver Library Management

We operate the ‘Oliver’ library management system and students can check the catalogue from any computer in the school.

Sparx Reader: Home

Sparx Reader is an online system that we use to encourage regular independent reading and further develop literacy skills. Book levels are matched to student ability through an initial assessment, providing just the right level of challenge. At regular intervals during reading, students are prompted to answer online questions to validate understanding and ensure continued engagement.

Library Events and Clubs

The library also hosts a variety of regular clubs and events including:

  • Book Club
  • Reading Mentors
  • Student Council

Useful Websites

National Year of Reading 2026 | Go All In

Reading for Pleasure Pedagogy – Reading for Pleasure

Buy a Book. Support a School. Make a Difference | LoveReading4Kids UK.

Bookshelf | Havering Libraries

Book Reviews, Kids Books | Common Sense Media