Library
At Glenthorne High School, our library is at the heart of school life—a welcoming, dynamic space where every student is encouraged to explore, create and belong.
Led by Mr Lucas Maxwell BEM and Nathalie Saillard, the library has become a nationally recognised example of how libraries can inspire a lifelong love of reading while supporting wellbeing, creativity and independence.
Meet Our Library:
Lucas Maxwell BEM
Mr Maxwell is an internationally recognised school librarian, award-winning author, and passionate advocate for reading for pleasure.
- UK School Librarian of the Year (2017)
- British Empire Medal (BEM) recipient for services to education and libraries
- UKLA Reading for Pleasure Champion (2022)
- Winner of the Times / Chicken House Children’s Fiction Competition (2024)
- Published author, with his debut young adult novel, “A Million Tiny Missiles All At Once” released in Spring 2026
With over 15 years’ experience working with young people, Mr Maxwell is passionate about ensuring that every student feels seen, supported and inspired in the library.
Nathalie Saillard, Library Assistant
Ms. Saillard has worked in the Library for over ten years and has worked tirelessly to create a space where students challenge themselves and strive for greatness. Her time spent training our student Mock Trial, Model UN and National Reading Champion teams have earned the school national recognition and acclaim. She persistently strives to develop new and exciting initiatives for students to engage in.
A Library Built Around Students
Under the watch of Mr. Maxwell and Ms. Saillard, the library has been transformed into a thriving hub of activity.
- Over 10,000+ books and growing collections
- Around 800 student visits every day
- A wide range of formats including fiction, non-fiction, manga, comics and dyslexia-friendly texts
Students play a central role in shaping the library. Programmes, clubs and even book selections are influenced by student voice—ensuring the space reflects their interests and needs.
Inspiring a Love of Reading
We believe reading for pleasure is key to academic success and wellbeing.
Our initiatives include:
- Book clubs and reading groups
- Author visits and virtual events
- House Reading Challenge
- Student-led book reviews and recommendations
Research shows that reading for pleasure can improve wellbeing, reduce anxiety and support academic achievement—and our library is designed to make reading accessible and enjoyable for all.
Innovation Through Creativity and Clubs
The Glenthorne Library is known for its imaginative and engaging activities that bring students through the doors and into reading.
Popular clubs and activities include:
- Manga & Anime Club
- Dungeons & Dragons Club
- Board Games Club
- Open Mic events
- Film Club and Book Quiz Club
- Mock Trial
- Model UN
- Debate Club
These activities help students:
- Build confidence and friendships
- Develop communication and teamwork skills
- Explore storytelling and creativity
- Discover new books connected to their interests
In particular, role-playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons have been shown to support emotional resilience, empathy and social development, while encouraging reading and imagination.
A Safe and Inclusive Space
Our library is more than just a place to study—it is a safe, inclusive environment where students can relax, connect and feel supported.
The Library places a strong emphasis on:
- Supporting neurodivergent learners
- Promoting diverse voices and representation in literature
- Creating a space where everyone feels welcome and accepted
Students regularly describe the library as a place where they feel calm, supported and able to be themselves.
Developing Skills for Life
The library plays a key role in supporting students’ academic development:
- Regular library lessons on research and digital literacy
- Guidance on evaluating information and tackling misinformation
- Opportunities for leadership through Student Library Assistant roles
These experiences equip students with essential skills for success both in school and beyond.
A Nationally Recognised Centre of Excellence
The impact of the Glenthorne Library extends far beyond the school.
Under Mr Maxwell’s leadership, it has become:
- A model for innovative school library practice
- A centre for student voice and leadership
- A space that demonstrates how libraries can transform school culture
His work has been recognised both nationally and internationally, and as an award-winning author, he brings real-world writing experience into the school—further inspiring students to see themselves as readers, writers and creators.
Visit the Library
The library is open every day before school, throughout breaktime, lunchtime and after school, providing students with a consistent, supportive place to learn, read and connect.
“A place where every student belongs” At Glenthorne, our library is more than a room full of books—it is a community, a creative hub, and a gateway to opportunity. We are proud of the difference it makes to the lives of our students every day.
