The Blakehurst High School library is the centre of learning at our school. It is a safe and inclusive environment where students study, access technology and relax with their peers, before school and during recess and lunch.
Our Collection
Our library is a well-resourced learning centre that supports the curriculum through an extensive and up-to-date collection of books, magazines, HSC resources and access to on-line resources such as eBooks, Audio Books, Clickview and Encyclopaedia Britannica. We review our collection frequently to ensure it reflects the range of needs in our school community.
Our wide selection of young adult fiction transports readers to imaginary places, allowing them to explore themselves and make connections between their own experiences and the wider world. In our library, we foster a love of reading and a culture of life-long learning. We aim to cultivate inquiring minds and develop informed students who are confident, creative and adaptable learners. Through our Oliver library management system, students can access the library catalogue, including our online resources, from anywhere, via the student portal.
Our Programs
To support our Stage 4 literacy targets, we havecommenced a new library program in the junior school. Our rigorous, informative lessons aim to improve student learning outcomes in information literacy and research skills. Our seniors are also supported, with teachers booking in for specific research lessons that are integrated with classroom learning.
The library supervises senior students during timetabled study periods. To support their learning and capacity to meet HSC outcomes, students are encouraged to use study period time efficiently, so they are more likely to meet deadlines, minimise stress and achieve personal success in the HSC.
Our Year 7, 8 and 9 students are encouraged each year to participate in the Premier's Reading Challenge.
This challenge is aimed at encouraging students ‘to read more, to read more widely'. English classes conduct library lessons where students are set-up for the challenge and given time to read. English classes with the most participation in the PRC are rewarded.On Mondays and Thursdays 3.15pm-4.45pm, Homework Centre operates in the library. Students are supervised by a rotating roster of experienced teaching staff and senior executive. With support
from teachers, peer tutors and access to library resources, students are assisted to complete homework and assessment tasks in a supportive, student-led environment.
Our Space
Our library is undergoing an exciting facelift and we are creating flexible learning spaces designed to support and encourage student-centred learning in a collaborative environment. Our new future-focused furniture is easily moved to cater to varied learning activities and our technology is also improving. We have added 30 laptops and new screens, with more to be acquired in 2020. Lounges and booths have also been added, providing comfortable spaces for students to collaborate, socialise and engage with their learning.
Our Teacher Librarian, Ms Arambatzis, together with the library team, welcome you to our Dynamic Learning Centre.
Our Library spaces are large and flexible.
Our Senior Lounge is a comfortable and inviting place to work.
Our Junior Lounge is flexible and relaxed.
Our annexes are ideal for small group collaboration.