Lodestar Academy opens doors to a world of knowledge with new school library

Lodestar Academy is delighted to announce the opening of its brand-new library, providing a dedicated space designed to support the literacy development of its students.

Located in Torquay, Lodestar Academy, part of the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, offers an alternative education provision for students aged 11 to 16 who face challenges that cannot be addressed within a mainstream setting. The academy supports young people from the Torbay area who have social, emotional, and behavioural needs, providing them with a safe and nurturing environment to thrive academically and personally.

The creation of this library has been made possible through a £1,500 Foyle School Library Grant from the Foyle Foundation, which has funded the resources needed to create a calm and welcoming environment for all students.

The library houses a carefully selected collection of books chosen with input from students, ensuring that the space is filled with titles that reflect their interests and learning needs. A key feature of the library is its selection of books promoting diversity and inclusion, allowing every student to find literature that resonates with them.

Many students at Lodestar Academy have experienced gaps in their education, and the academy is committed to addressing these challenges. With a strong focus on literacy, particularly reading, the new library is a vital resource to help students close learning gaps and ensure that each student has the opportunity to succeed.

Bron Pounds, Head of English at Lodestar Academy, who led the project, said:

"Reading is the foundation of learning, and our new library is the perfect space for that foundation to grow. It is a calm, inviting area where students can relax, explore new ideas, and find joy in reading in a way that feels natural and exciting.

"We are incredibly proud of how this library is already supporting our students' literacy development. It provides them with the resources and encouragement they need to build confidence, improve their skills, and, most importantly, develop a lasting love for reading."

Steven Hulme, Headteacher at Lodestar Academy, said:

"Our new library is truly central to our mission of closing learning gaps, and it’s fantastic to see the positive impact it’s already having. It is a space where students can really engage with their learning and feel inspired to achieve their full potential.

"The literacy skills our students develop here will benefit them far beyond their time at the academy. They will carry these tools with them as they move forward in their education and into their future careers, empowering them to engage with the world with confidence."