Levenshulme High School
One of our main aims has been to develop a culture of reading. ‘Starbooks’ was launched through a carefully managed publicity campaign involving posters, flyers and assemblies, with work done by a core group of pupils and staff. It is now well established and there has been a step change in pupils’ attitudes to reading. Our two NQTs and a team of pupils operate a popular loan system, there has been a steady growth in the numbers of pupils involved and books are in constant circulation.
‘Break Out Books’, a version of the lost books scheme, had an equally vigorous launch campaign which also included a competition for a logo (over 250 entries). This initiative is still in a developmental stage. It had an initial enthusiastic response. However, as books are being passed from pupil to pupil and to family members, we now need a way to monitor success. The books are being read, but we do need some of them back!
95% of Year 7 pupils took advantage of the national free books scheme. Library stock has been improved, with more attractive texts, a range of easy readers and comfortable seating. Accessions are up 20%.
Levenshulme High School is a school for girls aged 11-16, who come from a wide area of Manchester. The school has been awarded specialist status as a language college since 1996 and is a resource base for students with hearing impairment.