Library

Building Readers, Creating Connections

Following the successful introduction of our structured reading program for Years 7 & 8 in Term 1, students have continued to develop their reading habits and engagement with the library throughout Term 2.  With regular fortnightly visits now firmly established, students are becoming increasingly confident in their reading choices, exploring new genres and making greater use of the library's resources and spaces.

A highlight of the term has been the launch of the Sandringham College Reading Challenge.  Students have enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to set personal reading goals and work towards milestone badges.  It has been wonderful to see students challenging themselves to read more widely, discussing books with their peers and celebrating their reading achievements.  Having staff take part has helped create a positive reading culture and shown students that reading is something people continue to enjoy throughout their lives.

Our Year 7 and 8 students have also been exploring the CBCA Picture Book of the Year shortlist during library sessions.  Through discussion and analysis of shortlisted titles, students have examined how authors and illustrators use language, imagery, font and design to engage readers and communicate ideas.  These sessions have encouraged students to think critically about books while introducing them to some outstanding literature.

Students were invited to share their thoughts and responses to the books, with some of their comments being passed on to the authors.  It was great to receive a positive response from one writer/illustrator, who expressed how much they appreciated hearing directly from young readers.  For students, this was a valuable reminder that books create connections beyond the classroom, linking readers with the authors and illustrators who bring stories to life.  It also reinforced the importance of sharing their own voices as thoughtful and engaged readers.

Emerging Writers

Our Writers Club has continued to meet throughout the term, bringing together students who enjoy writing, sharing ideas and developing their creative skills.  The group provides a supportive space for aspiring writers to discuss their work and connect with other students who share a passion for storytelling.

Next term, students will have the opportunity to participate in the Write a Book in a Day Event.  Working in teams, student writers and illustrators will collaborate to plan, write and illustrate an original book in just one day.  The completed books are submitted to support children undergoing cancer treatment, allowing students to use their creativity to make a meaningful difference while developing their skills as writers and creators.

Beyond our structured programs, both libraries remain busy and welcoming spaces during recess and lunchtime.  Whether reading quietly, creating in the Makerspace area, playing games with friends or just taking a break from a busy school day, students continue to make the library a place to learn, connect and belong.

Reading Challenge

As someone who loves reading, one of the best parts of my job is seeing students discover books they genuinely enjoy.  I am always pleased to see students become more engaged with reading. Watching a student return for the next book in a series, share a recommendation with a friend, or talk enthusiastically about a book they have read is a reminder of the impact reading can have.

The Reading Challenge has been a great way to encourage these habits.  Students have been setting reading goals, tracking their progress and working towards milestone badges.  It has been fantastic to see so many students taking part and making reading a natural part of the day.

Congratulations to:

• Alex Leal - Year 7

• Elijah Chua - Year 7

Both students have reached 'Legend' status by reading 12 books.  They were presented with their Legend badge during their library visit.

Kid's Lit Quiz Success

Term 2 saw Sandringham College once again compete in the Victorian heats of the Kid's Lit Quiz, often described as the "sport of reading".  This year we had a record three teams participating, with our students achieving outstanding results, placing 1st, 3rd and 5th.

Students trained once a week after school throughout Term 1, reading widely and testing their knowledge of authors, characters, genres and literary trivia.  Their dedication and enthusiasm were evident on competition day, where they proudly represented the College and showcased the depth of their reading knowledge.

One of the aspects of Kid's Lit Quiz that makes it so valuable is that it provides students who may not be involved in traditional sporting competitions with the opportunity to represent their school and experience the excitement of team competition.  Watching students work together, celebrate their success, and demonstrate their passion for reading is always a highlight.

Our first-place team went on to represent Victoria at the National Finals in Sydney, competing against 16 of the best reading teams from around Australia (the report for National Finals Day can be found on the Principal News Page).  This is the third year in succession that Sandringham College has qualified for the national competition.

All of the students who participated in the Victorian heats were outstanding representatives of the College.  Their knowledge of literature, teamwork, and enthusiasm for reading continue to blow me away.  Congratulations to all students involved.

Makerspace

Our Makerspace was once again buzzing with activity throughout Term 2, with clay creations becoming the surprise hit of the term.  Lunchtimes saw students busy moulding, sculpting and creating.  Marine animals and cats were popular this year, as well as trinket bowls.

One of the great things about Makerspace is seeing students of all year levels sitting together, sharing ideas and socialising.

Book Corner

Top 5 Borrowers and the last book they borrowed for Term 2:

• Cooper Shearn Year 7 - Don't Let Them Leave by Mike Lucas (Horror)

• Mona Hamilton Year 8 - The Cruel Prince by Holly Black (Romantasy)

• Jack Anderson Year 7 - Wings of Fire (Book 3) by Tui Sutherland (Fantasy)

• Qairyn Yap Year 12 - Two Sides to Every Murder by Danielle Valentine (Mystery and Suspense)

• Zahli Probyn Year 7 - Sunkissed by Kasie West (Romance)

Term 2 Borrowing Snapshot

• Year 7 Loans - 846

• Year 8 Loans - 329

• Years 9 & 10 Loans - 152

• Years 11 & 12 Loans - 141

Currently, we have 395 books on loan to students.

Take a Story Home These Holidays

 If you hear the words "I'm bored" at any point over the break, suggest they read a book.

The holidays are a great opportunity to slow down, switch off and get lost in a good story. Before the term ends, encourage your child to borrow a book from one of the college libraries to enjoy over the break.

Students can also access the audiobook and eBook data the library subscribes to 24/7 via the library homepage, making it easy to keep reading wherever the holidays take them.

Happy reading from the Library team.

Access and Operating Hours

Students can access their Library Homepage 24/7.

Library operating hours for both campuses:

8 am to 4.30 pm Monday to Thursday 

8 am to 3.00 pm Friday