A Derby school library is starting a new chapter as it extends its offering and welcomes families to inspire a love of reading.
The Bemrose School on Uttoxeter Road is placing its library at the heart of school life through a growing programme of activities engaging pupils and parents alike, from book clubs and author visits to informal gatherings and shared reading.
These opportunities play a key role in supporting the Government’s National Year of Reading 2026, a campaign encouraging people of all ages across the country to read more and enjoy books together.
Within its expanded programme, a presentation evening was held as part of the Derbyshire Schools Book Awards (DSBA), a long-running reading initiative that encourages secondary school students across Derbyshire to discover and celebrate outstanding contemporary fiction.
Six groups of pupils were each assigned one of the six books on this year’s shortlist and delivered presentations discussing what they liked, disliked and key details about their book. One team was then selected to go on to the final at the University of Derby to take part in the winner announcement event.
Parent, Tariq Raja, who came to watch his son present, said: “I am really proud of my son today for getting up in front of an audience and delivering his presentation so well.
“What I think is so great about this initiative is that it encourages children to pick up actual books. Children are always using screens these days and this has really taught them the value of holding a book.
“When somebody loves what they do, they become really good at it and he is brilliant with books.
“It’s nice to have been able to get involved in this with him in this great space with such fantastic facilities.”
Alongside the presentation evening, the school has expanded its programme of activities with an author visit, the launch of a boys’ book club and a World Book Day initiative which saw every secondary pupil take part in shared reading.
A ‘Bemrose Book List’, created by students for students, is also planned for later this year.
Year 7 pupil, Ibrahim Raja, said: “I am a big reader, so I am really enjoying meeting up with like-minded friends after school and taking part in different activities.
“I was a little bit nervous giving the presentation, but I just focused on what I needed to do and enjoyed it. I was chosen to go on to present at the university, which I am really excited about.”
The library is also open during open evenings, parents’ evenings and informal events, encouraging parents to browse books with their children and help foster a love of reading.
Additional support is also available for families and students who may struggle with reading, including guidance sessions and presentations offering practical resources.
English teacher and literacy lead, Anna Bloor, said: “The presentation evening was a great success and I am so proud of all the effort the pupils put in.
“We have seen huge success in expanding the library’s offering, and it has been great to see pupils bringing their families in and enjoying books together.
“Literacy is so important and I want the pupils to always remain passionate about books.”
Headteacher Neil Wilkinson added: “It is fantastic to see so many pupils engaging with reading and sharing their ideas so confidently during the presentation evening.
“Events like this show the importance of literacy and the enjoyment that books can bring and I am delighted our students have had the chance to celebrate their hard work in such a meaningful way.
“It has been great seeing families come together in the library and enjoy some quality time with a good book.”
This press release was distributed by Penguin PR. To find out more contact Sarah-Louise Elton on 01332 416228 or by email at [email protected]
