Our Library
Our library is a calm and welcoming space where students can explore new interests, borrow books, and read for pleasure. With support from our dedicated librarian, students are encouraged to choose books for themselves or receive personalised recommendations. In addition to a wide range of fiction and non-fiction, the library offers magazines on a variety of topics, providing something for every curiosity. Books can be borrowed during both break times and after school, and regular library challenges celebrate students who immerse themselves in reading.
Extra-curricular: Book Club and Chess
Students can join our Book Club to discuss books, take part in reading activities, and enjoy stories together in a relaxed, friendly setting. Open reading sessions are also available at break time for any student who wants space to enjoy a book or ask for recommendations. Our Book Club plays a key role in shaping the Student Voice for Tutor Time Reading book selections, World Book Day competitions, and other reading opportunities introduced throughout the school year.
The library is also home to Chess Club, hosting two chess tournaments each year and providing a calm space for students to play, learn, and develop their skills.
World Book Day
World Book Day is a highlight of our reading calendar! We celebrate stories through activities across the school, staff recommendations and competitions designed to get everyone talking about books. Each year, we recruit eager Year 7 readers to be our ‘World Book Day Ambassadors’; they are an integral part of spreading our love of reading for pleasure – each year, these students organise World Book Day activities and act as the panel to decide the winners for our competitions.
Transition and Summer Reading Challenge
To help students join us with confidence, we run a Summer Reading Challenge for all incoming Year 7s. The challenge introduces them to the reading culture at AWS and helps them start secondary school feeling engaged and prepared. Each Year 7 has a Library lesson during their Year 6 Transition Day, in which they are introduced to the Summer Reading Challenge booklet for them to enjoy over the summer. This booklet includes reading trackers, review pages, reading challenges, and more!
