Library

The School Library has about 13,000 books. Most of these are non-fiction, chosen to support the curriculum work and extend and deepen it. They include the standard reference works such as encyclopaedias and dictionaries, and the Library also takes magazines, periodicals and newspapers, ensuring that pupils have the opportunity to keep up to date in their studies and in current affairs.

To supplement this, there is Internet access and a collection of CD-ROMs.

A user-friendly computerised catalogue system ensures easy access to library stock. The Library is open throughout the school day. Pupils can use it during break and the lunch hour, and classes use it for research purposes during lesson time. After school the Library is available for Years 10, 11 and 6th Form students for private study, under the supervision of a member of staff.

The Librarian encourages pupils to read fiction from the Library’s impressive collection, for enjoyment and for their intellectual development.

Information Literacy

The Librarian is involved in supporting Information Literacy programmes at various stages in school life: pupils gradually become familiar with sources of information, both book and digital, and learn how to assess the reliability with their sources and record their sources systematically.

The Librarian organizes various events throughout the year to foster the enjoyment of books, including activities related to children's book awards, such as the Carnegie Medal, book fairs, and author visits.