Our Learning Resource Area has over 15,000 books in a range of genres for all our age groups, as well as reference books, study guides, magazines and newspapers. It is a large, peaceful and relaxing educational and social area which opens at 8am each morning for students to visit prior to period 1. Students can also visit during break and lunchtimes, as well as after school until 4pm, where they can use the computers, choose a board game to play with friends, catch up on homework, or select a new book to read. Everyone is welcome.

Our LRA staff team continues to build upon our close partnership with West Sussex Libraries. Recently we were delighted to host George Barber, Families and Wellbeing Librarian, who came in to speak to the students about the West Sussex Summer Reading Challenge, and the volunteering opportunities this brings. George also spoke about future events, as well as showcasing some of the great resources available across West Sussex Libraries that all the students can utilise. This included ‘Reading Well for Teens’ which suggests recommended reading and digital resources to help understand feelings and boost confidence. Plus, the vast online eBooks, eAudiobooks, eComics, eMagazines and eNewspapers that students can access. George said: “ I had a fantastic time talking to these bright and curious students and look forward to building the relationship between your library and ours!”

Jaden, Year 9 school librarian, said: “His talk inspired me to sign up to volunteer at the Worthing Library and join the summer reading challenge.” Hazel, Year 10 school librarian, said: “His passion about his job really inspired me to want to work in a library.”

Our working partnership with West Sussex Libraries is also looking at ways in which we can support our EAL students here at Durrington to ensure they receive the best possible education.