THE BOOK LOFT - Library
Read, Explore & Discover
"Libraries allow children to ask questions about the world and find the answers. And the wonderful thing is that once a child learns to use a library, the doors to learning are always open."
- Laura Bush
WELCOME TO THE AYLWARD ACADEMY BOOK LOFT & LRC
Read, Explore & Discover
At Aylward Academy we take reading seriously, all pupils are automatically library members and must always have a library book in their bag with them at all times. Reading regularly not only helps develop vocabulary but also supports good mental health, helps develop imagination and sense of empathy.
We have fiction, non-fiction and graphic novels. To develop critical literacy and encourage our pupils to engage in the world around them we also subscribe to newspapers and magazines including First-News, Review Magazine (A-level subjects), Aquila, WRD and The Day - a digital newspaper. https://theday.co.uk/
We have the Book Loft for years 7-11 and the LRC for years 12 & 13 (Sixth Form). Both provide places to sit quietly, read, return and borrow books, do homework, use computers and get involved in various clubs and activities.
Reading
Years 7-11 take reading tests throughout the year and monitor their own progress. The results help guide pupils to books they can read and enjoy. Pupils in years 7, 8 and 9 have regular lessons in the library.
Reading for Pleasure
We want pupils to really enjoy reading and to support this we invite authors, poets and illustrators to our school. Pupils get the chance to ask questions directly, finding out where authors get their inspiration and if they are like the characters in their books. Previous guests include Sophie McKenzie, Dan Simpson, Non Pratt, Matt Oldfield, Elle McNicholl and Tom McLaughlin to name but a few.
Creating their own bookshelf at home
As well as reading school library books we also want pupils to build and take pride in their own book collection at home. Each year we take part in Bookbuzz where all year 7 and 8 pupils receive a free book in December. We have twice yearly Scholastic book fairs and secondhand book sales throughout the year. Ms Davenport also regularly rewards pupils with new books.
Books in the school library : https://www.readingcloud.net/
We have over eight thousand books in the school library. Pupils can search the catalogue, create their own reading list and avatar by clicking on the above link.
Username is a pupils whole school email address including @aylwardacademy.org and the Password is library
Books on our ePlatform : https://aylwardacademy.eplatform.co/
We also have an ebook platform, free for pupils to use. Pupils can download ebooks onto any device at home, it’s a great way to dip in and out of different genres.
Username is a pupils whole school email address including @aylwardacademy.org and the Password is library
Library Rules
Eating, drinking (including water) and chewing are not allowed in the Book Loft.
Book Club book buying trip to the All Good Bookshop
National Poetry Day with Dan Simpson
Author, Sam Gayton visits Aylward Academy
A tiger who came to tea?
Lucy Lil, Storyteller visit
Local author Alex Woolf holds a creative writing workshop
SIXTH FORM : Learning Resource Centre (LRC)
Our Sixth Form students enjoy access to first-rate resources and working spaces. The dedicated Sixth Form Learning Resource Centre is fully-equipped with a suite of computers, over 100 laptops which can be borrowed, space for private study and a range of books and resources that are designed for the study of the courses that we offer.
The LRC is also equipped with a RISO photocopier and printer. Sixth formers are also provided with a monthly printing and photocopying allowance to ensure that they can develop into independent and resourceful learners.
INFORMATION
Opening times:
8:00am – 4:00pm (Monday to Thursday)
8:00am – 3:30pm (Friday)
Staff:
Ms Davenport – Librarian
Pupil Librarians: We have a keen team of Pupil Librarians helping us issue books, create displays and recommend new books for the Book Loft.