Library
Physical and Digital Learning Resources
Across both campuses, students have comprehensive access to our Library Catalogue, which features an extensive collection of fiction and non-fiction titles. To ensure an inclusive reading environment, our curated selection includes dyslexia-friendly texts, graphic novels, and "quick reads." Students are permitted to borrow up to three books for a duration of three weeks.
In partnership with the Hampshire School Library Service, every student is provided with access to the Sora app. This digital platform enables students to engage with the latest e-books, audiobooks, and magazines. To support our diverse community, Sora offers Dyslexia-friendly typography to enhance readability, and multilingual support in 10 different languages.
We provide robust technological resources to support academic achievement across our sites:
Shakespeare Campus: Offers a dedicated set of Chromebooks specifically for use within the library, providing students with the tools necessary for research and digital literacy.
Cherbourg Campus: Features 24 networked PCs available for integrated classroom learning and independent study during our daily after-school Homework Club.
Library – Shakespeare Campus
To ensure that essential information remains accessible to all students at all times, our Reference Collection (including encyclopedias, atlases, and dictionaries) is reserved for in-library use only and may not be removed from the premises. Additionally, both campus libraries feature a dedicated Revision Area specifically designed to support our senior students. These hubs are stocked with the most up-to-date revision guides and flashcards, covering the full breadth of the KS4 curriculum to assist in comprehensive examination preparation.
Library Sessions for English Classes
In strategic partnership with the English Department, our Library Team is dedicated to advancing literacy standards for both our students and the wider community. We recognize that proficiency in reading is fundamental to academic success and lifelong learning.
To support this mission, all Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9) students participate in fortnightly library sessions integrated into their English curriculum. These sessions are specifically designed to encourage reading for pleasure and provide dedicated time for students to explore our extensive collection. During these visits, students benefit from access to thousands of diverse titles and the expertise of our Library Managers, who provide tailored recommendations to match each student's reading level and personal interests.
Homework Club and After School Activities
Our libraries provide a structured environment for independent study, remaining open Monday to Thursday until 4:00 PM and Friday until 3:30 PM. These extended hours offer students a dedicated space to conduct research, engage in recreational reading, or complete academic assignments. To further support student progress, our daily Homework Clubs are facilitated by our Library Managers, who provide professional guidance and oversight to ensure a productive atmosphere for all participants.
Our libraries serve as vibrant hubs for student engagement, offering a diverse range of extracurricular activities across both campuses. Beyond our academic resources, we host specialized clubs such as Crochet and Knitting and Dungeons & Dragons. Furthermore, a curated selection of board games is available for daily use, providing students with structured opportunities for cognitive development and peer interaction during their free time.
Careers Library
Reflecting the school's unwavering commitment to securing successful outcomes for every student, each library features a specialized Careers area. Curated by our dedicated Careers Officer, these sections provide a comprehensive selection of materials to assist in post-16 and higher education planning.
Our collection includes:
Academic Prospectuses: Current guides for both local further education colleges and national universities.
Vocational Insights: Targeted texts exploring various career pathways and professional sectors.
Skill Development: A selection of resources focused on enhancing study techniques and employability skills, designed to prepare students for the demands of the modern workforce.
Library – Cherbourg Campus