The library in GMS is a busy and popular space. Once a student is registered at the school they automatically become a member of the library. Every library member has an individual login that gives access to the ‘Reading Cloud’ library system.
GMS’s ‘Seventh R’ is reading, which is an important life skill with the added advantage of bringing pleasure, enjoyment and academic success. Reading demands connection, understanding and interpretation; it offers alternative vocabulary and interesting viewpoints.
Our school places both emphasis and value on the skill of reading, to that end library lessons are carefully planned with time allocated for reading and written work.
Students in Year 7 and Year 8 have fortnightly library lessons. The expectation is that two books a month will be read as an unwritten homework. Lessons encourage a love of reading through a wide and diverse range of book material. Our library collection aims to reflect the current reading trends and to cater for all abilities. There are both manga and graphic books, modern and older classics with sections on Black History, LGBQT, Dyslexic, TV, film and Tik Tok.
An app called Beanstack promotes reading by offering a way for students to track their progress. They can log the minutes they spend reading; ‘reading streaks’ are rewarded; engaging challenges are set, and rewards offered.
The expectation is that two books a month are read. Individuals can choose, although advice and help is always to hand.
Homework club is also held in the library Mon – Thursday 3pm – 4.30pm with a member of staff present to help and answer questions.
At differing points in the academic year the library holds events including visiting literary speakers, quizzes, and the Scholastic Fair.
