Welcome to the Jean Duffield Library – a lively place where learning and fun come together, offering an amazing collection of books and digital resources.
On the ground floor, we have a cozy space for recreational reading with a wide selection of contemporary and classic fiction, graphic novels, journals and magazines.
Upstairs, our first floor provides a quiet area with space for over 80 students to work on projects and homework during study periods, breaks and after school. With a vast collection of non-fiction books, individual workstations, laptops and study tables, it is perfect for academic reading and expanding personal interests.
Students can use our printing, copying, scanning and 3D printing facilities throughout the day. Essential stationery is available for purchase using the school’s cashless payment system. Our library management system, eBooks, and digital magazines are accessible via iPads and workstations in the library, as well as from home on any web-enabled device.
"The Library staff are easy to talk to and always willing to help when you ask. The library is nice place to be and we really look forward to library lessons."Year 6 student
The Library team
Mrs Pocock-Bell and Miss Chriti are here to help with questions, research advice and book recommendations. They also run clubs and activities such as book clubs, creative writing sessions, tabletop role-playing games and a weekly board games club for all students. Mrs Hilliar opens the library at 7.30am for early morning supervision, and students can stay for Prep until 6pm each evening.
“I really enjoy book events with other schools because it is interesting to see which books others enjoy. I took part in Carnegie in Year 8 and it gave me confidence to talk to new people because I knew we had shared interests.”Year 9 student
Events and activities
Our library hosts exciting author events, talks and competitions throughout the year. We celebrate National Poetry Day, World Book Day and International Women’s Day, and Juniors are encouraged to enter national competitions including the 500 Words competition, the Wicked Writers Essay competition, and we follow the annual Royal Society Young People’s Book Prize Book as a school on the judging panel.
For over 20 years, St Helen’s has joined local secondary schools to shadow the Carnegie Medal for Writing – a top award for children’s literature. Years 7 and 8 students read and discuss shortlisted books during weekly meetings throughout Trinity term, and attend joint events such as the Carnegie Tea, a quiz and the Joint Abingdon Schools’ Forum. The scheme helps students discover new authors, broaden their reading horizons and make new friends in and beyond their own school.
Years 7 and 8 students can also compete in one of our National Reading Champions Quiz teams or shadow the Excelsior Award for graphic novels. Years 9 and 10 students participate in the Young Adult Book Award, discussing shortlisted books and competing against teams from other local schools in a final quiz to win the YABA Cup.
