Sir Harry Smith Community College unveils newly refurbished library to benefit student learning
Sir Harry Smith Community College has proudly unveiled its newly transformed school library, following investment from Aspire Learning Trust.
The result is an inspiring, modern, and multi-functional Learning Resource Hub that is already having a positive impact on students’ learning and wellbeing.
As part of the refurbishment, the College - which is part of Aspire Learning Trust - has installed 15 brand-new computers complete with ergonomic office chairs, giving students improved access to technology during lessons and homework club sessions.
The library’s collection has also been significantly expanded with a modern range of new non-fiction books, chosen to complement key academic themes and national events throughout the year. These include titles on major historical moments such as Remembrance Day, VE Day, and the sinking of the Titanic, as well as books celebrating Black History Month, Women in Science and Industry, and the lives of notable leaders, inventors, and pioneers.
Creating a warm and inviting environment has been at the heart of this project. New comfortable seating areas now encourage students to read, study, and socialise in a welcoming and relaxing space. Staff have already noticed the positive impact this has had, not only during library lessons, which include dedicated time for reading for pleasure, but also in students’ social interactions throughout the school day.
Meredith, a Year 8 student at Sir Harry, said: “The library is an amazing space to either sit on the comfy chairs and talk with your friends, play games like chess or most importantly, just to read.”
Pyper, another Year 8 student at the school, added: “The library is my favourite place in the school. It’s a nice quiet place to read when you want to get away from the busyness and noise in the playground.”
The library also now features a mobile display bookcase and dedicated display boards designed to showcase books and resources linked to key events and curriculum topics. Recent displays have marked the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain and Black History Month, enabling students to explore history and culture through curated books and visual materials.
Principal, Dawn White, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Aspire Learning Trust for their generous investment. The new library truly reflects our commitment to providing students with a high-quality learning environment that inspires curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of reading.”
These additions build on the library’s already extensive facilities, which include a full class set of 30 iPads, flexible classroom seating with a projector, and an impressive collection of over 10,000 books housed on mobile shelving.
Rachel Mason, Chief Operating Officer at Aspire Learning Trust, added: “Aspire Learning Trust is proud to invest in the future of Sir Harry Smith Community College. The new library embodies our shared vision of aspiration and achievement for all, creating a welcoming space where every student is encouraged to explore, learn, and reach their full potential.”