It is a pleasure to take up the position as Head of ISC. (Marianne is currently adventuring and volunteering and setting up a library in Vietnam.) The ISC is an outstanding library. I have been delighted with the high level of borrowing by students which is indicative of a strong reading culture. The ISC in 2016 will continue to nurture good reading habits by providing a rich and diverse collection, celebrating reading through special events (Premier’s Reading Challenge) and author’s visits. Electronic resources will continue to be added for the learning community though its dedicated website. In 2016 some of our goals are to continue to increase student participation in the ISC by running more student run competitions, implement augmented reality workshops and hopefully assist and support students/staff in using 3D printer.

The year got off to a bang when  “Ripping into Research” began for the year 7 students. This involves a basic introduction to the ISC Libguides, access to school referencing sites and online databases. Currently Joy, Lyn and myself with Year 7 English teachers Leah Stoffels, Julie Cannon, Faye Kennedy are running the wide reading program called Literature Circles. Literature Circles are basically student centred book discussion groups which meet weekly over a six week period. The groups formed are differentiated, enabling each group to be challenged by a novel at their reading level. Each week sections of the novel are read at home, a specific role is completed and a group collaboration occurs where students discuss and analyse what they have read, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the novel.

Last year an ISC book club was launched, students will meet four times a term to discuss the book they are reading, or choose a commo book they can share, and also to choose new resources.

In Week 8, as part of our wide reading program,  the very successful Premier’s Reading Challenge will be launched to all Year 7’s and Year 8’s by convenor Joy Reid. The Challenge involves students reading at least fifteen books between March and August.

I will endeavour to continue Marianne's fantastic "in the Know" blog, keeping you up to date with emerging trends, helpful links and support, and ISC events.