All of the libraries have established programmes of library-based classes, events and activities. Reading and writing skills are developed, reading habits nurtured and the information skills needed to navigate and participate in society are practised. Librarians, working in professional partnership with teachers, run intensive and focused programmes aimed at improving teenagers’ Literacy and Numeracy skills. As cultural centres at the heart of schools, the school libraries regularly play host to diverse visitors including storytellers, authors, illustrators, film-makers, dancers, musicians and many more.
The Project libraries have become an intensive resource at the heart of the education system. With them comes recognition that many students are benefiting from a more practical hands-on experience of learning, which is reinforced by a growing sense of achievement. Broadening out the curriculum in a way which responds to the varying talents and abilities of students, is resulting in many students experiencing increased success in school.
The following is a sample of the wide range of activities, which are ongoing in the Project libraries:
- JCSP Paired Reading;
- Accelerated Reader see a video here Raising reading standards at St Aidan’s Community School
- Staff and student Book Clubs
- Timetabled reading classes;
- JCSP Word Millionaire;
- Intercultural showcase;
- Borrowing books for leisure reading;
- JCSP Readalong;
- Storytelling;
- JCSP Make A Book Exhibition;
- Family Literacy Programme;
- Student designed materials
- Library and information skills training;
- Performance space;
- Creative writing and Drama;
- Exhibition space;
- Before and after school activities and Clubs;
- Numeracy Programmes;
- Literacy and numeracy games
- Display of students work;
- Author visits and residencies.
- WRaPParound—Writing, Reading and Performance Poetry
- Drop Everything And Read
- ‘Read Your Mind’ Bibliotherapy Initiative with Jigsaw