Carnegie Medal Shadowing at St Richards

The Carnegie Medal is awarded by children's librarians for an outstanding book for children and young people.

The CILIP (Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professions) set up this award process to promote the library as a democratic, fun place in which to read and discuss books outside the classroom.

By taking part in the Carnegie Medal Shadowing, children are being encouraged to read, develop their own creative responses to reading and to interact and debate their favourite books with other young people.

The Carnegie Medal Shadowing at St. Richard's was launched with an after-school activity. The pupils had the opportunity to discuss the shortlisted books with Greta Paterson, Head of Children's and Young People's Services, Library and Information Services, East Sussex, and Jean Burke from Bexhill Library. Greta was herself the South East Carnegie Judge for two years so her involvement along with the time given by Jean to work with the pupils has been greatly appreciated at St. Richard's.

The St. Richard's pupils have gained a great deal from the experience of being part of the Carnegie Shadowing process.

Charlotte Ellis, a year 9 pupil in one of the reading groups, commented: "The Carnegie Shadowing award offers you a wonderful selection of books to enjoy and is great fun for all ages. It has a brilliant website too!" Grace Canelle-Dance, a year 8 pupil, also spoke of the overall benefits: "The Carnegie is an award that challenges me to read more exciting books and to make new friends from other year groups within the reading group."

The three reading groups at St. Richard's are in the process of avidly reading short-listed books over the next few weeks and they are posting their reviews on the award website, www.carnegiegreenaway.org.uk. The winner will be announced on Thursday June 25.