Reading underpins everything we do in English in Juniors; all pupils are encouraged to read widely in school as well as in their own time, to further develop their reading fluency and comprehension skills. This is built on a strong foundation of a comprehensive, effective phonics programme in Pre-Prep.
From Year 3 to Year 6 we encourage pupils to read widely and often through the Accelerated Reader scheme with the inventive of becoming a Word Count Millionaire. Additional challenges set by the Librarian over the holidays help to develop the habit of reading for pleasure.
Regular author visits, form an integral part of our school calendar. Our fantastic and very popular Junior Library is situated in the heart of the school. This reflects our belief that reading is of vital importance and our goal is to encourage a desire to read in our pupils.
As part of a weekly designated library lesson, children make use of our well-resourced library. The Librarian is on hand to offer advice if a pupil doesn’t know what to read. There are staff recommendations and peer-to-peer recommendations.
During morning and lunch breaks the Library is open to all children in Years 3 – 6 and offers a welcoming and comfortable place to read books or catch up on current affairs through newspapers and magazines. We have an extensive selection of books, daily newspapers and a good choice of magazines. We have a wide selection of up-to-date fiction and many old favourites, and our collection of non-fiction books supports the curriculum as well as covering popular interest areas.
A team of Pupil Library Assistants (PLAs) help support the Junior Librarian and offer book recommendations and help make the library a welcoming place.