A Nottingham primary school has shared a unique solution for schools limited by space and looking to introduce more areas dedicated to storytelling and encouraging a love of reading from reception.
Ahead of World Book Day, Bluecoat Primary Academy, part of Archway Learning Trust, has transformed sections of its corridors into three new library spaces for KS1 and KS2 – all aimed at igniting a passion for reading for pleasure.
It comes following recent guidance from the Department for Education, outlining the expectation that every school should have a library area for pupils, and a recent annual survey conducted by early years charity Kindred Squared*, which revealed that nearly a third of children can’t use books correctly when starting primary education.
The new spaces are set to be showcased this World Book Day, with CBeebies Presenter Joanna Adeyinka attending the academy to share her new book with students ‘What’s Up: 30 Encouragements to Fuel Your Faith’.
Ben Jackson, Head of School at Bluecoat Primary, said: “Reading is crucial not only for educational development, but also for helping children to develop personal skills, creativity and imagination. We see a direct correlation between children that engage with books and read for pleasure, and educational outcomes.
“We’ve looked at the resources available to us and have optimised our space to create three new library areas to support our students at every stage of their learning. We’ve been overwhelmed with how well this has been received by pupils and parents and can’t wait to continue to develop and grow these wonderful hubs throughout the year.”
Archway Learning Trust, of which Bluecoat Primary is proud to be a part of, prioritises reading across its schools by investing in books and environments that spark curiosity and a lifelong interest in literature.
Library spaces have been created for KS1, Year 3 and 4, and Year 5 and 6. This takes the
academy’s total number of libraries to four, along with its Engage Hub reading area – a dedicated space for children with social, emotional and mental health needs.
Chris Smith, Director of Education (Primary) at Archway Learning Trust added: “At Archway, reading sits at the heart of everything we do. We want every child to be taught to read well and to discover the joy, comfort and curiosity that books can bring. What Bluecoat has created here shows how schools can be imaginative and ambitious in making reading visible, valued and part of everyday life. Reading is one of the strongest levers we have to change children’s lives, and across our Trust we are determined to ensure every child develops both confidence as a reader and a lasting love of books.”
Archway Learning Trust is a Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) with 11 academies across Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, Derby and Derbyshire. In 2026, it marks its 320th year of educating children in Nottingham.