A year of hard work from all involved has seen the creation of a new library space which puts reading at the heart of being an Ark John Keats pupil. Supported by a generous donation from the Spencer Steadman Trust, the students can now access more than a thousand new books and enjoy a warm and welcoming space to read and study.
The school has marked the opening with a series of workshops led by illustrator Emily Fellah and author Laura Dockrill. The programme of events culminated with the announcement of creative writing and poetry competition winners. The first prize for creative writing was awarded to Nadira Alom, Year 13 and runner-up Fardowsa Mohamed, Year 8. The first prize for poetry was awarded to Jamell Walker, Year 10 and runner-up, Holly Mein, Year 11.
The grand opening on Wednesday 14th September saw the chair of The Royal Society of Literature and Radio 4 poet in residence, Daljit Nagra MBE, visit the school to cut the opening ribbon. Nationally, many students study Nagra’s poem ‘Singsong’ as part of their GCSE English curriculum. Students were thrilled to enjoy a poetry workshop led by Nagra and a short reading.
The school was delighted to welcome Kate Steadman, chair of the Spencer Steadman Trust, to recognise their generous contribution to the library redevelopment. Leader of the Enfield Council, Nesil Caliskan, also spoke to the students about her love of reading and how it has shaped her life.
Katie Marshall, Headteacher, said: “We are thrilled to have been supported by so many of your teams and the Spencer Steadman Trust to open such a wonderful space, which will benefit our students for so many years to come.”
Kate Steadman said: “I would like to thank Ark for their partnership. I would like to thank all our supporters without whom this would not be possible. Above all I would like to thank the students of Ark John Keats Academy for making use of this facility and bringing its purpose to life.”