On Wednesday 15th October, Sutton Courtenay Church of England Primary School proudly unveiled its newly designed library — an enchanted forest-themed haven that has already captured the hearts of pupils, staff, and families alike. With tree-lined walls, cosy reading nooks, and nature-inspired décor, the space has been thoughtfully created to spark imagination and offer a calm, inclusive environment where every child feels welcome and inspired.

“The moment I walked in, I felt like I could explore a hundred different worlds,” said one Year 5 pupil. Another added, “Our library is a place where everyone belongs.” These reflections set the tone for a launch filled with joy, pride, and a deep sense of community.

The children’s excitement was unmistakable. From the moment the ribbon was cut, pupils poured into the space with wide eyes and eager hands, ready to explore the shelves. Reading Ambassadors and Librarians from Year 1 to Year 6 delivered articulate, heartfelt reflections on what the new library means to them. “Reading gives us power — the power to learn, to imagine, and to grow,” said one pupil. A Year 6 ambassador concluded, “This library is a gift to our school. We’re excited to see how it helps every reader shine.”

The grand opening was attended by Ridgeway Education Trust Patron of Reading and author Jo Cottrill, members of the Trust, representatives from the local church, parent volunteers, and children. Jo Cottrill shared insights into her writing journey, inspiring pupils with stories of creativity, perseverance, and the power of words. She also generously gifted books to the school’s Librarians and Reading Ambassadors, making the day even more memorable.

Paul Shaughnessey, Director of Primary Education at the Ridgeway Education Trust, delivered a speech commending the school’s vision and the community’s unwavering commitment to literacy and inclusion. The school also acknowledged the support of former Trust CEO Rachel Warwick and current CEO Georgina Littler, whose leadership and belief in innovation helped pave the way for projects such as this.

The transformation of the library was made possible through the generosity and dedication of a wide-reaching community. Donations from the Faringdon Trust and George Robinson helped bring the vision to life, while fundraising efforts led by our Year 5 and 6 pupils through Young Enterprise demonstrated the power of pupil-led initiative. Parents contributed not only books, but heartfelt messages tagged to the boxes, reminding staff that every gift carried a story of its own.

The school’s strong relationship with the local church was reflected in the presence of church members, who continue to play an active role in school life. Parent volunteers were also recognised for their tireless work in sorting, labelling, and categorising hundreds of books to prepare the library for launch.

As Headteacher Mrs Raluca Chende concluded: “We are not just cutting a ribbon. We are opening a future… Let’s fill these shelves. Let’s fill these hearts. Let’s begin.”

The celebrations continued on Friday with the launch of the school’s Reading Café — a warm, welcoming space in the hall offering tea, coffee, biscuits, bookmarks, and book stickers for families to enjoy. Organised alongside a joyful Bake Sale by FOSCS, this event brought together staff, pupils, and parents in a shared celebration of reading. It was a moment of connection and community, reminding us that books are not just stories — they are journeys we take together.

In a village without a public library, Sutton Courtenay CofE Primary is proud to extend the love of reading beyond the school gates. Outside the entrance, a newly cleaned and waterproof Book Shed has been introduced as a Community Book Swap Station — the only one of its kind in the area. Families are invited to donate books their children no longer read and take one home in exchange. Starting Monday 29th October , the shed will be managed by our Reading Ambassadors and Librarians, supported by Ms deBruyn, our English Lead, and cared for by our pupil leaders. It’s a simple but powerful way to keep stories flowing through our community.

This is a dream realised for all our children — made possible by a school community that truly believes in the transformative power of books. A community that understands stories don’t just entertain; they build empathy, spark curiosity, and help children see themselves and others more clearly.