World Book Week Brings Stories to Life at Hockerill

What a wonderful week to begin my role as College Librarian!

This year’s World Book Week has been a true celebration of reading across the College. Each day, teachers have been hosting cosy ‘Book Nooks’, inviting students to pause, listen to a story, and enjoy a biscuit (or several!). These shared reading moments have created a real buzz around books and reminded us all of the simple joy of being read to.

Year 7 students have also enjoyed a fantastic programme of virtual author visits during their library lessons. This week, we were delighted to welcome Robin Scott-Elliot and Nazneen Ahmed Pathak. In the coming weeks, we look forward to hearing from Stewart Foster, S. J. Wills, Ben Davis and Alastair Chisholm. These inspiring events form part of the Hockerill Book Award, giving students the opportunity to engage directly with authors and explore a wide range of exciting new texts.

A special thank you must also go to Sarah Bruce for coming out of retirement to help run the virtual events.

Students have received their £1 World Book Day book token during form time, and I hope it will encourage families to visit a local bookshop and perhaps spark a new reading discovery.

On World Book Day itself, it was wonderful to see staff dressed as book characters, bringing stories to life around the College. Mrs Waritay has also been busy creating posters showcasing what staff are currently reading. These displays send a powerful message: reading is not just something students do for school; it is something adults value and enjoy too.

Research consistently highlights the importance of reading for pleasure. According to the National Literacy Trust, children who read regularly for enjoyment are more likely to perform well academically, develop stronger vocabulary and communication skills, and report higher levels of wellbeing. When young people see the adults around them reading, it reinforces the idea that reading is both valuable and enjoyable.

Miss Chloe Dash
College Librarian