The Library and Sixth Form Centre

Independent learning and research The Library offers Sixth Formers the exciting opportunity to discover their own interests and to develop the independent learning skills needed at university and beyond. We are here to support your taught courses, research and reading for pleasure. The collection includes: books, plus a digital library of eBooks, audiobooks and online subscription resources, including newspapers and journals. You can search for books in Oliver, our catalogue, and look up course reading lists from your teachers. There are three dedicated search points in the Library, but you can also access Oliver remotely from home or your device. You can manage your account online: seeing what items you’ve borrowed, renewing loans as needed, reserving books, etc.

Our academic resources only can be accessed from School or remotely by using the links on the Library’s Google site or the home page of Oliver. These include: Britannica; Cambridge Companions Online; subject specific databases, e.g. for Drama, History and Science; newspaper article databases, online journals and journal archives (including JSTOR), the Very Short Introductions series, copyright-cleared image banks and more.

Borrowing, renewing & reserving items Sixth Form students may borrow up to 10 items at a time, at the discretion of library staff. The loan period is a fortnight for most books. Items may be renewed as long as no one else has reserved them. If an item that you want is on loan, you can reserve it, either online or at the library desk. Supporting your research A team of professional librarians is always on hand if you need help. We’re here to help support your studies and are receptive to suggestions for books and other resources.

Private study & reading areas In addition to comfortable reading areas, there are study tables to accommodate around 100 students. We have three desktop PCs and 15 laptops, which are available to Sixth Form students during private study periods on a first-come, first-served basis. You are also welcome to use your own laptop or tablet, and may charge your device(s) while you work in the Library. We can lend headphones for use within the Library.

Printing, copying & scanning facilities The library’s printer/scanner/photocopier is for academic work only. The library staff will help you to ensure that your printing, copying and scanning complies with copyright legislation.

Sixth Form Centre In addition to the Library, there is a study room (48 individual spaces) available in the Sixth Form Centre, for supervised, silent work. The Sixth Form Centre provides an attractive area for socialising and relaxing.