Pupils at Kingfisher CE Academy in Wichelstowe are enjoying a novel end to the summer term, thanks to a generous donation of brand new books from two local housebuilders.
The school’s new collection of books from Usborne Books, worth almost £1,000, will support the school’s 108 pupils from Reception to Year 4. The new resources will enrich both the school’s curriculum and its reading culture, offering children access to a broad range of high-quality titles.
Caption: Luke, Tabitha, and Isla
Headteacher, Sharon Bishop, said the donation has been “transformational” for the school: “This generous support will enable us to enrich our curriculum with high-quality, engaging texts that we simply wouldn’t have been able to provide otherwise. The books span all areas of the curriculum, supporting both academic learning and a lifelong love of reading.”
The donation comes at a crucial time for the school, amid growing pressures on funding. Sharon added: “With school budgets under increasing strain, external support such as this is more vital than ever. This donation will allow us to continue to offer a rich and diverse education, despite financial constraints. Without this kind of generosity, many children would miss out on valuable learning opportunities.”
Louise Ware, sales director for David Wilson Redrow South West, continued: “It’s wonderful to know that students are enjoying these new books as they head into the final weeks of term – and even better that the school’s library will continue to benefit for years to come, supporting future generations of young readers.”
Richard Lawson, sales director for Barratt Homes Bristol, added: “We’re thrilled to support Kingfisher CE Academy and help spark a love of reading in young children. Books have the power to inspire, educate and entertain, and we’re proud to play a small part in enhancing the learning experience for pupils here in Wichelstowe.”
The two housebuilders teamed up with Catherine Acton from Books by the River to help boost reading resources in local schools. As an Independent Usborne Partner, Catherine was able to enhance the donation by 60%, enabling Kingfisher CE Academy to receive nearly £1,000 worth of new books. Her involvement helps ensure schools get the most out of donations, fundraising efforts and their own budgets when it comes to updating their book collections. Catherine concluded: “It’s a pleasure to support reading in schools. As a teacher myself, I’ve seen first-hand the positive impact that access to quality books can have on pupils.”
Schools interested in accessing additional support can contact Catherine at: booksbytheriver@hotmail.com.
Main Image – (Adults l to r) Zoe Barnet, sales adviser from Barratt Homes Bristol, Mrs Connell (English lead), Sharon Bishop, headteacher and Beth Davies, sales adviser from David Wilson Redrow South West
