Our libraries
We have three unique libraries on our campus: one for our early years and younger primary children (Key Stage 1); one for our remaining primary students; and a third for secondary and sixth form learners. Each library is specifically designed for each age group, with full-time librarians on hand to inspire our students to develop a love of reading and learning.
Early years and primary libraries
In both our early years and primary libraries, our main aim is to promote reading for pleasure, enabling children to develop a lifelong love of literature. Both libraries have been carefully designed to make the most of natural light, with shelves running perpendicular to the windows. Wide walkways create a stress free environment where children can take their time to browse the ever expanding collection of both fiction and non-fiction books.
Our early years library boasts attractive purpose-built, low-level shelving for picture books that provide easy and safe access. We also have a designated non-fiction area complete with it’s own ‘reading tower’. Non-fiction books are arranged in topics using a pictorial system. Even the youngest children can easily find or return books to the correct shelf.
In our primary library, areas of ‘lounge style’ seating are located near to magazines and picture books. These areas are very popular with the children. Before school, at break times, lunchtimes, and after school, they're full of students reading quietly or sharing and enjoying books in a relaxed and informal setting.
Secondary and sixth form
Our secondary library is a hub of learning, enriching and supporting the Year 7-13 curriculum. Our aim is to develop students’ lifelong love of independent learning and enquiry. Our library is also a gateway to digital and information literacy, where students can explore print, digital, and audio-visual collections.
Each student in Years 7-9 has a library lesson once a week to develop their love of reading, to increase their progression, and to develop their research skills. Progress is checked weekly and recorded on a reading log.
Our students are passionate about fiction and we motivate them by continually updating our titles. Our online library, Borrowbox, enables the BSKL community to download and borrow e-books and audiobooks, too. Students, staff, and parents can log in here or download the app.
Secondary students attend a range of enrichment and social activities in the library as well. It's a flexible place where we adapt to the developing needs of our students. We also have designated study areas, work pods, and a quiet reading room.
