Reading

At Bellerive, we are very clear about the importance of reading. By encouraging students to read both for pleasure and to improve their subject knowledge, we wish to foster a life-long love of reading. We have recently refurbished our library and a number of reading initiatives are taking place including ‘Drop Everything and Read’ (DEAR) and pupil-led reading groups.

Ms Gillen, our librarian, is working with students and staff across the school to help them develop a shared love of reading. Please see below for her latest update:

In the days leading up to World Book Day celebrations this year we welcomed award-winning author Alan Gibbons into school to inspire students to get reading and learn more about his life as a writer. The jam-packed day kicked off with two laugh-a-minute assemblies for Year 7 and 8, followed by a book-signing and four author-led workshops, where selected students from across the years had the chance to develop their own writing by coming up with adventure or horror stories under the expert guidance of Alan. Students produced some brilliant, thoughtful, pieces – watch out for when we share some of these spine-chilling tales on the website soon! A fantastic time was had by all and it’s sure to leave a lasting and inspiring impression for all students involved.

The celebrations continued on World Book Day itself when we saw our Year 7 students donning their favourite book character costumes, as well as members of staff – with Heads and Assistant Heads of Year 7 and 9 leading the way!

Other activities for students included a Book Bonaza Quiz, ‘Share a Story’ book club – where students shared book recommendations and a ‘Mystery Shefie’ challenge where students had to guess the member of was staff pictured behind different books, as well as a whole school reading of ‘The Veldt’ by Ray Bradbury. Students all also received World Book Day vouchers enabling them to buy a book from a selection of great teen titles for just £1.50 or receive money off a book of their choice. Now we just can’t wait for next year!