Reading at Cotham School

Cotham School is proud of its amazing library which is located in the very heart of the school. At Cotham, we strongly feel that reading is for everybody. We make sure that all of our students, regardless of background, are given the same opportunities to read. We have an exciting, wide and varied selection of fantastic books, reflecting our diverse and wonderful cohort.

Cotham school can strongly say we are a school that reads. We value reading because we believe that reading is a fundamental part of academic and social development, and is important for a child's future success.

Reading for pleasure is of paramount importance to us as a school. Reading for pleasure is one of the most important skills that a child can learn. It helps to develop students’ language, imagination and creativity. Helping them to learn about the world, develop empathy and emotional awareness, as well as increasing happiness and improving mental health.

What does Cotham Library have to offer?

Cotham Library prides itself on being a warm and welcoming environment, offering a safe space to relax, read for pleasure, as well as an inviting place to do homework and study. The library aims to be a whole-school resource, providing materials for all aspects of school work. Our full time Librarian, Ms Payne, runs the library with help from our amazing team of Year 9 Student Librarians.

Books

We have thousands of fiction, nonfiction, manga and graphic library books available, as well as textbooks and revision guides. Students are encouraged to take ownership of the library so book suggestions from students are welcomed. Cotham feels students should see themselves reflected in the books they read as well as exploring stories that are very different to them.

Computers

36 computers are available with access to a printer for all homework needs.

Stationery Shop

Our cash-only stationery shop has affordable equipment from pens, protractors and notepads to flashcards and calculators.

Displays and Activities

Colourful and inspiring book displays are regularly updated to encourage students’ interest and promote reading. Year 9 librarians take an active role in helping with these displays to encourage reading amongst their peers.

The termly Library Lucky Dip is a library raffle whereby students can earn tickets by taking part in any positive activity that aids the library. From being an avid reader, writing a book review, entering a competition or advising a fellow student on book choices.  Students earn the chance to be entered in a draw to win a small prize.

Book Clubs take place every week in the library during lunchtimes and after school. We are always keen to have more members. Please contact library@cotham.bristol.sch.uk if you would like to join in. 

Cotham holds a Readathon every year. This encourages students to read for pleasure, whilst raising money for sick children in hospital. Press HERE for more information.

Author Visits are very popular here at Cotham. We have welcomed CBBC’s Joseph Elliot, local authors JM Joseph and Lize Meddings, as well as Carnegie Award winner, Tia Fisher. 

World Book Day is a huge celebration here at Cotham: we have various visiting authors, workshops, and dressing up challenges for both students and staff! We also have various book-related competitions which run for the whole week.

Reading Buddies The library also hosts weekly reading buddy sessions for Y7 students who are selected and paired with our eager volunteers from Year 12, Post 16. Students read together once a week in registration to build their confidence and love of reading.

Library Lessons

Ms Payne creates fun, engaging and informative Library Lessons for Year 7 and Year 8.  They are taught every term during English lessons – they take the form of quizzes, treasure hunts and reading games.

AccessIT

All students at Cotham have access to our physical library via the online catalogue AccessIT. Here students can search and reserve books, write book reviews or catch up with the latest library news, competitions and announcements. AccessIT can be accessed via Google Classroom both at home and at school. Press HERE to take a look.

ePlatform

Every student at Cotham can access free online eBooks and Audiobooks using our fantastic ePlatform online library. Thousands of books can be read from any device at home via your computer or phone. Press HERE to start reading.

Practicalities

• The library is a quiet space but not a silent space - respecting others around you is key
• Students can borrow 4 books for 4 weeks
• Books are to be returned to the library desk or the 2 book return boxes (outside student reception and the library)
• Use of mobile phones is not allowed inside the library
• No food or drink (except bottled water)
• Bags and coats are to be placed on shelf near the entrance

Opening Hours

• 8.15 – 8.25 before registration
• 10.45 – 11.00 Break
• 12.05 – 12.35 – Lunch (Years 8 and 9)
• 13.05 - 13.35 – Lunch (Years 7, 10 and 11)
• 14.45 – 15.45 – After school (Monday to Thursday)
• 14.45 – 15.30 – After school (Friday) 

Useful links:

KS3, KS4 and KS5 Recommended Book Lists

Book Finder Website: Match your Child's Age and Interests to a Book

What if my Child Doesn't Like Reading? 

 The Study Hub is also available for Post-16 students at the North Bristol Post-16 Centre.