We’ve had an exciting week this week as part of our celebrations for the National Year of Reading. Firstly, 30 of our Year 7 and 8 students were asked to participate in an important discussion about how to spend a significant grant that has been awarded to Monmouth Library. Students helped librarians choose the books they would like purchased, and these books will form the foundation of a new book club, called ‘On the Same Page,’ which is aimed at Year 7 and 8 students locally. It was a lovely opportunity for students to get to know their local library a little better, and it was wonderful to see students curl up in random corners with books, or even play board games together, at the end of our visit. Hopefully, this will encourage more of our students to visit this brilliant local resource more often!
Finally, as part of our collaboration with Haberdashers’ School for the NYoR, 30 of our Year 8 students were invited to an author visit from Ben Kane, bestselling historical fiction writer, who spoke passionately about the Roman Empire and the construction of Hadrian’s Wall. Students were particularly interested in his amazing outfit and accessories, including a very special sword which was crafted using traditional methods and was beautifully ornate. It was a really interesting talk and certainly made us want to read more of his books!
All in all, a busy week for our Culture of Reading boost, which is only set to get busier next week with our exciting World Book Day celebrations! Not only will staff be dressing up as their favourite fictional characters for the day, but our Reading Ambassadors will be playing Hide and Seek dressed as Where’s Wally and students have been invited to add a ‘fictional flourish’ to their usual uniforms to celebrate their favourite characters. Key Stage 3 students have designed the book-themed food we will eat in the canteen on Thursday, and Year 7 have been invited for an author visit with Daniel Morden at Monmouth Library on Thursday too!
