School Library Expansion Aims to Strengthen Community Bonds

A school library has relocated to an expanded area with the goal of attracting more families and fostering stronger community connections. Personnel and school librarians at Gorse Hill Primary School in Swindon undertook the design and painting of a former classroom, converting it into a new library facility for students and their families. The institution caters to a diverse community, where 68% of its students speak a second language. Headteacher Candida Hutchinson stated that the narratives found within the library “unify” the pupils and assist them in discovering “commonality no matter where you were raised”. Mrs. Hutchinson, who assumed the role of headteacher at the school in January, expressed the school’s aspiration that children’s families would be drawn to the new facility. She remarked, “It’s being more outward facing as a school and sharing what we have to offer.” She added, “This is such a great school and we have so much to give.” She further commented: “Reading is the key to all learning. About 68% of our school population don’t have English as their first language, [so] before they can learn, they’re having to translate themselves.” She continued, “But what unifies everybody is stories, we love books. It’s about finding that commonality from wherever you’ve been raised.” At the inauguration of the new library, several students who had no English proficiency upon enrolling two years prior demonstrated their progress by asking questions with impressive vocabulary. Mrs. Hutchinson stated, “Myself and our English lead got almost a little bit emotional, they are inspiring.” She elaborated, “Teaching is a tricky job at times, leadership is a tricky job but we focus on the children and the inspiration they give us.” She concluded, “We’ve got a real dedicated, determined team here to do the best for our children.” Local author Roy Awbery was also present at the launch event, where he read from his book ‘The Scariest Dinosaur’. He expressed being “blown away” by the “incredible” space. He added, “The kids here are so inspired by the books, it’s a great resource for them.” For further updates, follow BBC Wiltshire on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.