St John’s CE Primary School in Radcliffe recently celebrated the opening of their new school library with a visit from children’s author A.M. Dassu and the charities Magic Breakfast and the National Literacy Trust. Chosen as a flagship library for the North West by the National Literacy Trust, the school was generously awarded over £10,000 of library furniture and school books to create an inviting and inspirational reading space.
Michelle Milne, Deputy Head, wrote a passionate application about the need for school library space and the difference it makes when children have an exciting reading area. Her application shone with enthusiasm about the school, Radcliffe, and the difference books make in children’s lives. She said, “We love using our local library and taking the children there and can’t wait for the new Council library hub to be built. But in the meantime, we have our own flagship library here!”
Revd Adele McKie, Amelia Brummett from the ManDio Growing Faith team and Maryse Gooderson, churchwarden of St Thomas and St John’s, Radcliffe, were all part of the celebration lunch and chatted to staff, pupils and visitors about the difference a church-school partnership makes in every area of the curriculum.
After A.M. Dassu officially opened the library, she led sessions for KS2 children and shared her experience of books opening doors to other worlds. She also gave an inspiring talk to the children about the importance of books, covering topics such as racial justice and the importance of welcoming refugees. As part of the project, the school received 500 new books to ensure the library is well-stocked with stories that feature diverse characters and works by authors from global majority backgrounds.
Charity trustees travelled from London to attend the opening celebration, and the school will be used as an example of the difference that funding for libraries can make.