Author visits Wellington Lions Primary for Library Launch

There was excitement at Wellington Lions Primary in Tidworth on Thursday as they officially opened their brand-new library with the help of Author Virginia McLean, who visited the school for the day to cut the ribbon and ran a number of inspiring workshops about why it's so good to be a curious child. 

Over the past few months staff have worked hard to develop the library to provide each child with an individualised and interactive reading experience.  With Wellington Eagles Primary officially launching their library next week, the academies are embarking on 'Star Tests' which will identify a great range of books for individual reading. 

English Lead, Joanna Popperwell said, "This is a really exciting milestone for the Wellington Primary Academies in their journey to put reading at the heart of learning and promote curiosity and fulfilment through reading a range of fiction and non-fiction titles matched to their reading level. 

The ribbon was officially cut by children's author Virginia McLean, with Headteacher Mr Jake Bailey and pupils Jenson and Isabelle watching on.  

Mr Bailey welcomed the new reading venture and explained, "The books within the library are levelled and have quizzes to take at the end, so children can read with purpose and celebrate both their decoding and comprehension skills. 

He added, "The books can also be shared at home and quizzes can be taken online. The programme encourages pupils to read independently and more importantly at their own pace and level." 

Asked how she felt about being invited to open the library Virginia said, "I feel excited and extremely proud for them to have chosen my book."  

Having written 'Journey to the beginning of the World' for her young daughter, Virginia added "It's just about encouraging kids to ask questions, that it's good to be curious and if you look in the book, books are the heroes of the story." 

Wellington Lions Primary Academy is a school for the 'curious child' and this philosophy is at the heart everything the school does. By developing a child's curiosity and engaging them, the aim is for them to become lifelong learners.  

To find out more about Wellington Lions Primary please visit their website www.wellingtonlions.org.uk

'Journey to the beginning of the World' by Virginia McLean is available to buy online and in bookshops.