Library facilities

The Learning Resource Centre is much more than just a Library as it provides all members of the College with books for information, leisure and pleasure, regardless of their ability and age. Individual pupils, small groups or whole classes use the centre for research throughout the day as the need arises during their course of study.

The Learning Resource Centre computers are linked to the school network so may be used to complete work started in IT rooms or for homework. Internet access is available on all the Learning Resource Centre computers.

We operate a home loan system similar to the public libraries. Most borrowing takes place at morning break or lunchtime when we also provide a quiet place where those who wish may read or work. A day/lesson loan system is available for books needed for use in school.

All pupils are encouraged to read fiction. There are suggested reading lists for all years and Year 7 English classes have regular reading sessions in the library. This enables us to discuss their choice of books and to recommend titles suited to each pupil's ability and interests. the aim is to increase their enjoyment in reading, to develop their reading ability, and to widen their reading experience. We also have "Paired Reading" groups in the centre when older pupils read with a younger partner. This regular reading has proved very popular and also beneficial to all concerned.

As part of the PSHE programme all Year 7 pupils are given an introductory session in the LRC to enable them to use it successfully. The ability to obtain information from the many resources available in an LRC is an important skill which we hope to develop during the time pupils attend the College but we hope also to pass on a sense of enjoyment and achievement in practising that skill and an enthusiasm for learning