Facility aimed at fostering love of reading
Nicola Sturgeon saw the progress made by children in reading when she visited a Stirling area primary school last week.
The First Minister was at Bridge of Allan primary to open its new literacy lounge on Thursday.
The modern facility is equipped with digital technology, such as Chromebooks, iPads and Kindles, and a wide range of reading material.
It’s part of the school’s aim to foster a love of reading among pupils, address a general decline in reading habits and develop their literacy skills.
Children at the school have played a central role in planning and organising activities related to improving literacy, which have included visits from authors and a ‘book tasting’ event with support from Bridge of Allan Library.
Ms Sturgeon said: “It is a fantastic resource for the school and everyone involved in the project, especially the children who have played a big part in the design of the space, should be proud of their work.
“I’ve loved reading from an early age and some of my happiest childhood memories involve immersing myself in stories. Reading opens up a whole new world of adventure and fun for children and also helps develop and improve their literacy.
“I have no doubt the new Literacy Lounge will inspire pupils for years to come.”
The project took one year to complete from its inception, with P1 teacher at the school Suzanne Ferry playing an instrumental role.
Other staff, pupils and the wider school community, including the Parents and Teacher Association (PTA) were also involved in a number of fundraising activities and in raising awareness of the new library space.
Funding was secured from Stirling Council Community Fund, New Park Educational Trust, Bridge of Allan Community Magazine and Ernest Cook Trust.
Headteacher Lyndsay Macnair said: “As a school we recognise the advantages of reading for enjoyment, not just for academic achievement, and this inspired us to drive this project forward.
“We knew we needed a more creative and engaging physical space to help our children become enthusiastic readers and we have ensured that the importance, joy and benefits of becoming a lifelong reader are embedded in our curriculum.”
Stirling Council’s children and young people convener Councillor Susan McGill also attended the opening and congratulated children, parents and staff on the initiative.
CouncilTory Group education spokesperson Bryan Flannagan, said: “This will be a wonderful space that will help encourage a love of reading. I was very pleased to see that the First Minister came along to support this initiative given the falling literacy rates across Scotland.”