Spotlight 25-26

WEEK B

WEEK BEGINNING 08/09/25

Library Spotlight A new year begins

Welcome back to a new term at Teddies! Each week you’ll receive a round up of news from the Library, including our Book of the Week, any competitions we’re running, activities taking place, and various other tidbits of information. For those of you who are new to the school, the Library team are Head Librarian, Ms Eldred and Library Assistant, Mr Gormley pictured above. Welcome from the Library

Using the Library

The Oxley Library is on the first floor of the Christie Centre and is open to all pupils and staff during the day. On the top floor, the Reading Room is a silent study space for use by Sixth Form and staff during the day and for prep, this is also where Sixth Form Library Study periods are regularly held (check your timetable to make sure!). Books can be found across all three floors and are for use by all pupils and staff. You can book the Library for societies, lectures, or events - message Ms Eldred with your request for availability.

Important rules in The Oxley Library: No jumping on the beanbags or furniture! No using the Library as a shortcut to classes or the Willows — you’ll be sent back if you try! No cups/ glasses from Willows cafe are allowed. All years groups and staff are welcome to use the space. Important rules in The Reading Room: It is a silent study space. Lower school pupils are allowed to browse books and should be made to feel welcome. Only upper school pupils and staff may use The Reading Room and mezzanine floor to study. No cups/ glasses from Willows cafe are allowed.

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W EE K BEGI NN I N G 22 / 09 / 25 WEEK BEGINNING 22/09/25

WEEK B

Library Spotlight Shells take over!

Library Induction Starting last week on Friday, Shell pupils have been giving up one of their English lessons to have a Library induction. This involved starting with a short talk, watching a video of a cat roaming the shelves, a brief tour of the library, and ended with a group scavenger hunt!

Summer Postcards

Every year, new Shells receive letters over the summer from Ms Eldred introducing the Library. The letter contains a self-addressed postcard, and pupils are asked to write back with their favourite book and the book they are currently reading. Those postcards then make up a glorious display which hangs in one of the library windows. Ms Eldred pores over them on the lookout for any books we might not currently have in the library so she can buy a copy for the shelves! This year, Mr Gormley used the responses as inspiration for one of his Library displays, and we added ‘Shell Recommendations’ to one of the shelves in The Book Box on Field side.

The Hunger Games by Suzann Noughts and Crosses by Malo Nineteen Eighty-Four by Geor A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder The Maze Runner by James D Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurie The Inheritance Games by Jen Brave New World by Aldous H Murder Most Unladylike by Ro I Capture the Castle Mortal Engines by Philip Reeve Goodnight Mister Tom by Mic The Heroes of Olympus series

Remember! Book a meeting with Ms Eldred to review your referencing and essay formatting .

WEEK B

WEEK BEGINNING 22/09/25

Shell Recommendations Mr Gormley’s hallway display features a selection of the books most frequently mentioned on the Shell postcards, which ranged from dystopian thrillers to historical fiction. Our most enduringly popular modern classics are undoubtedly The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and Noughts & Crosses by Malorie Blackman - both timely novels which imagine oppressive regimes and those who rise up to challenge them. Similarly popular is The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes , a thrilling tale full of mystery and betrayal. Mr Gormley was particularly happy to see one of his all-time favourite series - Mortal Engines by Philip Reeve - mentioned multiple times! Murder mystery remains a hugely popular genre at Teddies, with series like Murder Most Unladylike by Robin Stevens and A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson being some of our most-borrowed books. Classics were represented by two classic dystopian tales: Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell and Brave New World by Aldous Huxley. Other recommendations included the timeless coming-of-age novel I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith , the touching war-time story Goodnight Mister Tom by Michelle Magorian , and the Gothic mystery Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier. Our Shells clearly read widely - these titles were just a few of the huge range of books they wrote to Ms Eldred about!

ne Collins orie Blackman rge Orwell r by Holly Jackson Dashner er nnifer Lynn Barnes Huxley obin Stevens e chelle Magorian s by Rick Riordan

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WEEK A

WEEK BEGINNING 29/09/25

Library Spotlight Beyond the books

Book of the Week On a Sunbeam by Tillie Walden

Magazines and Online Resources

The Library subscribes to a fantastic range of magazines, newspapers, and digital resources, which all pupils are encouraged to make use of! These are ideal resources for anyone undertaking research for an EE or EPQ, or for anyone who just wants to keep up with developments in science, technology, politics, and current affairs! Click the logos below to access login details for the online version of each resource . Our print magazines can be found on the Study Decks outside the Reading Room. Here you’ll find:

Fresh out of boarding school and seeking a new direction, Mia joins a group of spacefaring engineers restoring forgotten monuments. As she settles into her routine of early mornings and hard labour, she looks back on her relationship with Grace, a new arrival at school with a mysterious past. Moving between past and present, On a Sunbeam is a stunningly illustrated tale of love, friendship, and self discovery. The web version is free to read online (click to open) or pick up the print version in the Library. (It’s also one of Mr Gormley’s favourite graphic novels!)

We also subscribe to brilliant digital resources , which can help you expand your subject-specific knowledge. Some are listed here, more can be found on the library firefly page.

WEEK A

WEEK BEGINNING 29/09/25

Online Resource of the Week: Britannica School Britannica School is a renowned and trusted source of factual information, written specifically for students of all ages and reading abilities. It provides an excellent starting point for research into any topic, from computer science to history, classical languages to modern art. This online version also includes fun daily facts, news from around the world, and a new AI chat feature!

Magazine Highlights

New Scientist: Huntingdon's Disease Breakthrough Huntington’s disease has been successfully treated for the first time using a gene therapy, which may be available in the US as soon as next year. Economist: Why AI systems might never be secure . How AI remains open to attacks. History Today: The Heroic Remains of Homer’s Odyssey For those living on the Greek island of Ithaka, The Odyssey is written all around. Philosophy Now: A Crisis of Attention Paul Doolan explores our attention demanding culture.

National Geographic: New Megaraptor Discovered With its final meal still in its mouth!

Fifth & Sixth form pupils: Remember! Book a meeting with Ms Eldred to review your referencing and essay formatting .

Ms Eldred: The Witchling’s Girl by Helena Coggan Currently Reading

Shell Writing Competition Deadline: 8 October th Don’t forget to send your entries to library@stedwardsoxford.org by 9pm on Wednesday 8 October to in with a chance of winning prizes! th

Mr Gormley: On the Beach by Nevil Shute

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WEEK B

WEEK BEGINNING 06/10/25

Library Spotlight Connecting with family for World Post Day

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World Post Day: 9th October To celebrate Wold Post Day we encourage you to write a letter - or postcard - home, to a parent, grandparent or other family member. We have lots of postcards available in the library this week and once written (you can write as many as you like), we will get them in the post for you!

2025

Shell Writing Competition, Deadline: 8 October th Don’t forget to send your entries to library@stedwardsoxford.org by 9pm on Wednesday 8 October to be in with a chance of winning prizes! th Competition prizes Watch the videos to see the prizes on offer for the Shell competition, the first place winner will also receive gift vouchers for both Daunt Books and Costa!

WEEK B

WEEK BEGINNING 06/10/25

Black History Month Books of the Week

Black Tudors by Miranda Kaufmann

Black and British by David Olusoga

African American Poetry edited by Kevin Young An essential selection of poetry by Black writers and artists, from 18th-century trailblazers and post Civil War America to the Harlem Renaissance and beyond. The compelling story of Krom Hendricks, the first black South African sporting hero. A must-read for sports fans. Too Black to Wear Whites by Jonty Winch and Richard Parry The untold stories of the Black Tudors, dazzlingly brought to life, will transform how we see this most intriguing period of history.

The fascinating and revealing story of the long relationship between the British Isles and the people of Africa and the Caribbean.

The Lonely Londoners by Sam Selvon

Sula by Toni Morrison A beautiful coming-of-age story about two girls in a Black community in Ohio and the forces that both bring them together and tear them apart. A vivid portrait of the Windrush generation, this is the classic novel about London’s West Indian community.

What is Black History Month? In the UK and Europe, Black History Month happens every October. It aims to raise awareness and understanding of Black history through a celebration of culture, by challenge existing narratives, and by promoting racial equality. People from African and Caribbean backgrounds have been a fundamental part of British history for centuries; however, they have often been left out of common narrative history. Black History Month seeks to rectify that omission. In the USA, Black History Month takes place every February to coincide with the births of former President Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, both of whom played a significant role in helping to end slavery in the USA. Our Books of the Week encompass Black history from the UK, the USA, and South Africa. Click here to find lots more recommendations .

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WEEK A

WEEK BEGINNING 13/10/25

Library Spooklight For hauntingly good library news

The leaves are falling off the trees, the days are getting shorter, and Halloween is approaching... It’s spooky season at Teddies! We’ve picked six of our favourite spooky stories for you to enjoy over Exeat.

Frozen Charlotte by Alex Bell Ms Eldred says: “I had to have ALL the lights on to read this one! It’s a very popular choice in the library - I’ve had to stock multiple copies!” Thin Air by Michelle Paver Mr Gormley says: “An unsettling ghost story set during a 1930s expedition to the Himalayas. It’s completely absorbing and brilliantly written - and truly spooky!” House of Hollow by Krystal Sutherland Ms Eldred: “I thought it was fantastically weird, and with just the right amount of creepiness it will keep you hooked without giving you nightmares.” The Witchling’s Girl by Helena Coggan Ms Eldred: ”I’m currently reading this book and the story has hooked me. It’s a fantasy but very different to anything I’ve read before; it’s dark, mysterious and unpredictable.” The Taking of Jake Livingston by Ryan Douglass Mr Gormley: “This creepy and fast-paced ghost story set in an American high school will have you hooked from the first page!” She is a Haunting by Trang Thanh Tran Ms Eldred: “Not only a chillingly effective horror story, but also a powerful look at how the past (in this case, colonialism in Vietnam) can return to haunt the present.”

WEEK BEGINNING 13/10/25 winner!

WEEK A

The Raven

Still, sitting, perched upon a Awake, aware, sure of a Prepared, equipped, waiting for a- The deadly, lethal, fatal bird lay. Against the midnight sky, on the- Deep down inside the Up ahead relaxed rested the Just the wind nothing more.

The first writing competition of the year saw fierce competition from the Shells! Olanna Mkushi (Oakthorpe) took the top spot with her poem The Raven, she was closely followed by Rosanna Villiers (Avenue) and Jack James (Cooper Lodge). All the entries have been published in an online booklet, to view, click the picture:

A BRANCH, A SNAP, A FLUTTER, Nothing more if that

THE CRY THE PAIN THE FACT THAT Nothing will ever be the same

Something. Must. Change

Still, sitting, perched upon a Awake, aware, sure of a Prepared, equipped, waiting for a- The deadly, lethal, fatal bird lay.

Ms Eldred: The Witchling’s Girl by Helena Coggan Mr Gormley: The Ruin of All Witches by Malcolm Gaskill Currently Reading

BY OLANNA MKUSHI

WEEK A

WEEK BEGINNING 03/11/25

Library Spotlight Manga manga manga

Book of the Week Book of the Week Frieren by Kanehito Yamada

New Manga Hitting the Shelves

The Library’s hugely popular manga collection continues to expand: we’ve added 50 new manga titles to the shelves since the beginning of the Autumn term! Come and check out our new arrivals, including action-packed manga like Kagurabachi and Isekai Samurai , the delightful fantasy Witch Hat Atelier , and the best-selling boy-band series Given, or adventures with unlikely heroes in Sakamoto Days and Wind Breaker !

This story begins where most fantasy tales end: the elven mage Frieren and her party have already defeated the Demon King and saved the world. But while her mortal companions grow old and pass on, Frieren remains unchanged. Realizing too late how little she truly knew those she fought beside, she sets out on a quiet journey of growth, seeking purpose in the everyday and treasuring the fleeting moments that make life meaningful.

Fifth & Sixth form pupils: Remember! Book a meeting with Ms Eldred to review your referencing and essay formatting .

WEEK A

For the stairwell book display, Mr Gormley has chosen some out-of-this-world science fiction novels. And we mean that literally: most of these stories take place on worlds beyond Earth! A classic sci-fi epic is Isaac Asimov’s Foundation , set in a galactic empire on the verge of collapse - unless a group of brilliant scientists can change the course of history. Ursula Le Guin’s novella The Word for World is Forest , written during the final years of the Vietnam War, is a powerful allegory about colonial violence in which the alien inhabitants of the planet Athshe, subjugated by humans, organise to overthrow their masters. In Octavia Butler’s Dawn , the protagonist Lilith awakens on an alien spaceship, one of a handful of humans rescued 250 years previously from a devastated Earth. Katsuhiro Otomo’s iconic graphic novel Akira combines sci-fi mystery with thrilling action in a future Neo-Tokyo. Moving into the 21 century, we’ve got modern classics like Margaret Atwood’s Oryx and Crake - a wildly imaginative tale of genetic engineering, mad scientists, and the end of the world as we know it - and Karen Lord’s first-contact tale The Blue, Beautiful World. Martha Wells’ Murderbot Diaries is a hilarious and fast-paced series with a security cyborg protagonist who, unbeknownst to his human employers, has become fully self-aware. Andy Weir’s Artemis is an action-packed sci-fi novel in which a smuggler gets caught up in a power struggle on the Moon’s only human colony. But science fiction doesn’t have to be high-octane: if you’re looking for a gentler vision of the future, look no further than Becky Chambers’ wonderful Monk and Robot. In this collection of two novellas, a tea monk leaves the city for the wilderness, where they meet one of the sentient robots who had abandoned society centuries earlier. Cue a delightful series of quirky adventures as monk and robot set off to explore their world! st WEEK BEGINNING 03/11/25 IT CAME FROM OUTER SPACE!

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WEEK B

WEEK BEGINNING 10/11/25

Library Spotlight Christmas poetry competition open now!

Book of the Week

Christmas Poetry Competition 2025 - All year groups -

With Remembrance Day on Tuesday coinciding with the Shell History and English WWI project, we’ve picked as our Book of the Week a stunning and moving collection of first-hand accounts from those who lived through the horrors of the First World War. Forgotten Voices of the Great War uses first-hand accounts from the ordinary men and women - soldiers, civilians, marines, and medics from both sides - who were there. The Library has three more brilliant titles in the Forgotten Voices series for you to explore. We highly recommend flicking through these books to get a sense of what it was like to live through such tumultuous and traumatic periods of modern history.

Winners announced and prizes awarded in the last week of term Send your entry to library@stedwardsoxford.org THEME: MIDWINTER DREAMS Deadline: Wednesday 26 November, 9pm

The winter poetry competition is open to ALL year

groups! As always, there will be prizes! Winners to

be announced in the last week of term.

Anti-Bullying Week Letters It’s a bumper edition of Spotlight this week! Not only do we have information from the archive on the next three pages but following that, for Anti Bullying week, you will find letters that staff have written to their 13-year-old selves.

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WEEK B

WEEK BEGINNING 10/11/25

WWI at St Edward’s School

St Edwards School Archives holds a collection of letters written to John Millington Sing, Warden from 1904 – 1913, and his sister Edith Sing, known as Miss Sing. Throughout the War they kept correspondence with staff and OSE on the front lines, in POW camps, on ships, in overseas postings, in hospitals and within the UK. The letters are an insight into the brutality of WW1, but also show the deep connection the men had to St Edwards School, their teachers, and friends. On the next pages you’ll find information about a former SES pupil who also went on to be a teacher here at school. John Garratt Bussell was a well-loved member of the community as evidenced by articles found in the school Chronicle at the time of his death, as well as in letters from other men who knew him. Bussell was one of 121 members of the community (former pupils and staff) who lost their lives fighting in WWI. He was only 33 when he died.

J. G. Bussell – Folkestone, Kent – 22 Jan 1915

Dear Sing, Your letter was very welcome – I am glad you and Miss Sing continue to enjoy Winchester; one deserves credit for enjoying anything these days – that is to try if one does it, and at the same time does not forget. These rather bitter reflections are perhaps this result of the fact that I am in bed with water on the knee and my hands bandaged up. My horse took it into its head to fall down in the road yesterday and squashed my leg – not serious. I shall be [fit] for duty again on Monday I expect. I have quite a lot to do now. For four months I was second in command of a Company, and had little to do, and felt I had made rather a useless sacrifice of other things, but now I am in command it seems so much more worth while and I am happier. I got 3 days (part of my Xmas leave) at Marlborough and saw my sister, and very pleasant she was to see. Dorothea is coming down tomorrow to stay here a week or so. Your letter is on the chimney piece, and I cannot get out of bed to get it! So, excuse please if I fail to respond to anything therein. My regards to both. Yours affect [affectionately] J. G. B.

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John Garrett Bussell O.S.E.

The following pages show the Roll of Honor entry for John Garratt Bussell and on the next page the articles from St Edward’s School Chronicle July 1915 recording his death.

Above: AI has been used to enhance and add colour to the photo in the Roll of Honour.

Anti-bullying week: A letter to my 13-year-old self

Continuing the theme of letter writing, for anti-bullying week members of staff have written a letter to their 13 year-old self, those letters are on the next pages. Bullying takes place in many forms, some are obvious and some are more subtle. Standing up for others and for yourself is always important, if you feel it is safe to do so. If in doubt you can always speak to members of staff or use the various channels of communication listed on the ‘Who can I speak to?’ posters found around the school. A definition of bullying: Bullying is the repeated, intentional use of force, threats, or coercion to hurt or intimidate another person, often exploiting an imbalance of power. It can be physical, verbal, psychological, or online (cyberbullying) and can take many forms, such as name-calling, spreading rumors, exclusion, and physical aggression. Bullying can occur anywhere and has serious emotional and psychological consequences for both the victim and the bully.

It won’t last. Don’t worry - that feeling you don’t quite fit in, you need to be the same as everyone else, you’re not skinny enough, need braces and have the worst acne…none of it will last. Please know, being a teenager is really tough, but you will grow to love the skin you’re in and all your quirks. The acne will go, you will get straight teeth, and you will love your body eventually regardless of what size it might be because it is healthy, strong and does everything you’ve ever asked. The most attractive quality in a person is in self-confidence and embracing the good, the bad and the odd. Similarly, try to embrace that quirkiness. You ARE different and that is a good thing. You love to sing, dance, paint and hike. Those activities are things that will give you breathing space in the chaos of life and a sense of wellbeing like no other. Equally, yes - you suck at team sport, but you will find your way. Your only competition is yourself and you will learn to love fitness in your own way - hiking, running, lifting weights. It’s only ever you vs you. Kids are mean - ignore them. Your power is in your unique personality, and it will serve you well. Finally, your career will find its own way. It is not and never will be about the job title or the salary but about being happy, doing something you love and giving back to society. Your path will take twists and turns - there will be successes and major disappointments, but each will teach you. You will eventually make it, just not in the way you originally planned, but you will be much happier for it. Trust the process, question authority at every turn and believe in yourself. Don’t conform to societal expectations. Don’t ever question your honesty, courage and integrity for anyone/any job and don’t ever forget to believe in yourself. You’ve got this (oh, and skinny jeans won’t always be cool hang in there!)

I know it feels awful right now. I know you feel alone, you feel awkward in your body, you feel like everyone else has it together when you don’t, you think everyone is staring at you, you worry people won’t like you…. I know because I remember. With crystal clarity. I have no advice for you but this: just hold on. Demand no more of yourself than to get through each day because it will get better, I promise. You can’t force it, you can’t control it. Just hold on, ride the waves, bear the storm because calm seas and beautiful beaches lie ahead. You will reach them in time. Just hold on.

Here I am decades later, to tell my 13 year old self: you won’t remember the code to your secret diary so don’t worry what you vent in that! You are still friends now with many of your friends from when you were 13, and unbelievably we have our own families now, some of whom are teenagers, which definitely seems weird. You’ll achieve the exams, the driving test, University and many different jobs, but then you’ll realise that your actual self has got a bit lost in getting all these milestones ticked off. What makes you you is not this list. You’ll feel low and things will go wrong, you will make mistakes. You’ll absolutely hate not being in control when this happens…but you will keep going. You’ll be most proud of yourself when you manage to stay calm and kind under pressure. And eeesh! You put yourself under such pressure! You’ll remember the adventures you have had, the people who make you laugh. You will realise that those people who are not nice to you, fade into insignificance over time. They said and did those things because they were not happy in themselves, and you can do very little about them. It won’t affect who you’ll become. You will learn that, in fact, you are powerless over so much in your life. I know you won’t believe it, but most of happiness in your life will come from letting something go, rather than forcing things forward. So sit back, take it easy for a while. Try not to rush every waking minute. Have as much fun as you possibly can. Remember, you can’t control other people, you can only control how much they affect you. I know you’ll roll your eyes at this, and go off laughing with your friends, and that’s OK too. Pssst: I’m proud of you!

Dear my 13 Year Old Self,

Everything is going to be okay. Right now, you feel awkward, you feel fat, and you feel uncool. I promise you won’t always feel this way. You’ll learn to care less about what people think and more about what makes you feel good. Exercise, eating well, spending quality time with friends, yoga, and art—these are the things that lift you up. Do more of them! Would you believe that by the time you turn 30, you’ll have an amazing husband, incredible friends, a lovely home, a fulfilling job, and yes—you’ll have lost that weight. You’ll have run multiple half marathons, completed triathlons, and even crushed a HYROX competition. Life is good. You’ll get there. Be patient with yourself, and try to enjoy the ride.

With love, You at 31

Hey… I know sometimes it feels like everything is hard and nothing really makes sense. That will change but it won’t come simply from getting older or because you surround yourself with different people (though both those things do happen), it will come from staying true to who you are. I know that every time you wish on a shooting star you simply wish ‘to be happy’, it’s the perfect wish, keep wishing it. But that wish isn’t something that becomes true at some future point, it’s true right now. Sadness always passes, anger always dissipates, frustration always clears, take time to observe those emotions if you can, observing them instead of reacting with them helps them pass away quicker. You’ve always had a sunny outlook on life, people will try to knock that out of you. Here’s the truth: miserable people are always trying to give away their misery because it’s so uncomfortable to hold; remember, you never have to accept the gift of someone else’s emotion. Hold onto being glad for the good things, it’s the quickest and easiest way to fulfil your wish of being happy. You’re starting to notice how much people pay attention to looks and you’ll look in the mirror and be able to list tons of things which are ‘wrong’ with you. The only thing that is wrong is the list itself. You’ll look back on that list years later and wish you could tell yourself: there is literally nothing wrong with you, because there really, really, really isn’t. Try as hard as you can to appreciate yourself now, just as you are, and to not put your validation in the hands of others. Loving yourself starts with choosing to talk back to the voice in your head with love and contradiction when it tells you you aren’t good enough. You’ll get better at that later, but there’s no reason not to start now. Guess what? That list you made of things you wanted to achieve in your life, you complete every single one of them and much more besides. It’s ok that you don’t know what you want to do when you’re older, you’ll go through lots of different experiences to work it out and every single one of them will make you into the person you become and will help you succeed in the career you choose later.

You are going to be ok. You have so much ahead of you, and it won’t always be easy, but just know, you truly are capable of making your dreams a reality.

Pause before you act or get involved with anything that might be unkind. Take time to think – you only need a moment. Ask yourself some simple questions. Do you want to follow a crowd? Is that the courageous thing to do? What could I do to show the most kindness in this situation? Then let your values do the talking and acting.

I am writing today to share some advice that my good friend, Harry Hindsight, has given me. A long time ago, I attended as school similar to St Edwards. I was in a boarding house full of sporty boys, and luckily, I was one of those boys; popular enough, in all the teams, even capable of socialising with the girls. I say “luckily” because, looking back, those not-so-lucky must have found life at school really tough. I say because one of my close friends was really nasty to one or two boys in particular. I mean, properly unkind. Looking back, it was irrefutably bullying - targeted, hurtful, persistent. I can say, hand on heart, that I was never a perpetrator. I was, however, the next closest thing, I was a by-stander. I did nothing. I said nothing. Not to the bully. Certainly not to a teacher. I basically let it happen. I was a coward. Even worse, I’m sure I laughed along with it all – safe in the knowledge that it wasn’t me on the wrong end of it. To this day, whenever I think about it, I regret not being strong enough to intervene. My advice to you, is that should you witness any unkind behaviour, you need to have courage. Have courage to call it out. The vast majority of people know right from wrong. Some get caught in the moment, but when its pointed out to them, most will stop. If they persist, then they are not a kind person and you should: seek alternative help (teacher, peer listener, senior prefect) offer support to the victim (and I use the word ‘victim’ quite deliberately) seriously question your choice of friends I hope you might take this advice on board – in many ways I hope you will never have to use it, but the sad reality is, you probably will. It’s not always easy to do the right thing, but calling out unkindess will make the world a happier place.

Good luck and have courage,

WEEK A

WEEK BEGINNING 17/11/25

Library Spotlight More books than Shakespeare had quills!

The Library’s Most Borrowed Books

Most popular Shell choices This week, we took a dive into the library’s borrowing statistics to see which of our library books been most popular in the past five years! Overall, manga is the most borrowed type of book in the library with the smash-hit Korean series Solo Leveling being a clear favourite across all year groups, closely followed by the Death Note series. Most popular books overall

Most popular middle school choices

Most borrowed book in the library

Most popular Sixth Form choices

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WEEK B

WEEK BEGINNING 10/11/25

PATHWAYS TO SHAKESPEARE

With Macbeth and Hamlet both featuring on this week’s programme, we’re focusing on all things Shakespeare!

Not sure where to start with the bard? The Shakespeare Book is the perfect introduction to Shakespeare’s life and times, with clear and concise overviews of his plays and the major events that shaped his work

On the hunt for a completely different perspective on Shakespeare? Look no further than these brilliant manga adaptations, which put a fresh spin on classic stories of love and betrayal.

ALL BOOKS AVAILABLE IN THE LIBRARY!

Fan of Shakespeare but more interested in reading fiction? Ryan North has come up with an ingenious solution: Shakespeare, but as a choose your-own adventure novel!

Did you know that 126 of Shakespeare’s most famous love poems are addressed to a man? In this entertaining and provocative book, Will Tosh shows that

Ready to go behind the scenes of Shakespeare’s life? In the novel Hamnet , Maggie O’Farrell explores the life and death of Shakespeare’s son - the boy who lent his name to the writer’s tragic masterpiece.

Shakespeare’s writing isn’t as straight-laced as you might think...

(The film adaptation is coming out soon!)

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W EE K BEGI NN I N G 24 / 11 / 25 WEEK BEGINNING 24/11/25

WEEK B Library Spotlight Jingle all the way!

Book of the Week

A gorgeous anthology of 366 poems, one for every night of the year. From Sappho, John Donne, and Edgar Allan Poe up to Langston Hughes, Carol Ann Duffy, and Nikki Giovanni, these poems are perfect for reading aloud, whether to yourself or with friends. An ideal compendium for dipping into when you need a quiet break from the final hectic weeks of the Autumn term! Just take this simple but striking haiku by Matsuo Bash ō :

From time to time The clouds give rest To the moon-beholders

Books to add to your Christmas list! Ms Eldred and Mr Gormley recommend their top three books this year, for your own Christmas wish list or to gift to someone else!

Death at the Sign of the Rook by Kate Atkinson A murder mystery which draws upon well-known tropes and puts a new spin on each of them. Funny and gripping!

Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan Short but powerfully moving story about an act of courage in a small Irish town.

North Woods by Daniel Mason

Heirs and Graces by Eleanor Doughty

Enchanting historical fiction full of quirky characters. Magical, funny, poignant, unique.

A fascinating look at modern aristocracy in Britain; intriguing, illuminating, revealing

On a Sunbeam by Tillie Walden Immersive and emotionally resonant graphic novel, featuring stunning illustrations.

The One Hundred Nights of Hero by Isabel Greenberg Beautiful story telling in the form of a graphic novel. Currently being made into a film!

WEEK B

WEEK BEGINNING 24/11/25

Christmas Vibes

We’re feeling very Christmassy in the Library with the launch of the poetry competition - as well as the festive cushions, which Ms Eldred put out the moment the tree went up in the quad! This week, continuing the Christmas countdown, we invite you to fill in a short form to request a personalised selection of books picked just for you in time for the Christmas holidays! It takes just 2 minutes to fill in and your selection can be collected on the last day of term.

CLICK HERE TO FILL IN THE FORM

Talking about competitions... This year, library competition prizes have had a fun revamp! Watch the video below to see an example of prizes on offer for the Christmas Poetry Competition - first place winners also get vouchers to spend!

Christmas Poetry Competition 2025 - All year groups -

Winners announced and prizes awarded in the last week of term Send your entry to library@stedwardsoxford.org THEME: MIDWINTER DREAMS Deadline: Wednesday 26 November, 9pm

The winter poetry competition is open to ALL year

groups! As always, there will be prizes! Winners to

be announced in the last week of term.

@ T EDDIE SL IB R A RY @TEDDIESLIBRARY

Library Spotlight It’s Christmas! WEEK A THIS FRIDAY Christmas pop-up library in Willows! This time of year there’s nothing better than being wrapped up in a cozy blanket with a good book and mug of hot chocolate! We have SO many good books in the library and to help you choose one to take away with you for the holidays we’ll be in Willows Cafe on Friday with a large selection for you to browse and borrow. Come find us from first break onwards!

WEEK BEGINNING 01/12/25

Christmas Book Boxes

If

you

ordered

a

personalised Christmas book box using the form sent out last week, you will be able to collect it from the pop-up library in Willows Cafe on Friday. We had so much fun putting these selections together for you and look forward to seeing what you think!

Mysteries in the Library

You never quite know what you might find in the library, and Friday morning last week was no exception. Overnight some elves had left clues to mysterious goings on and Ms Eldred followed the trail from clocks to Azkaban and mandrakes! Watch the video to follow along. She maaaay have left some clues of her own in return...

WEEK A

WEEK BEGINNING 01/12/25

Christmas Crackers

Have yourself a very deadly Christmas with this classic murder mystery tale!

This heartwarming Christmas romance is sure to warm you up on a chilly winter day

366 beautiful winter-themed poems to enjoy every day of the year, alone or to share with friends.

Charles Dickens’ timeless Christmas classic of ghosts and redemption, in striking graphic novel form!

Renew or return your books before Friday! library@stedwardsoxford.org or come and speak with us. Return via the returns boxes on Field Side and outside the Library. To renew, email

Ms Eldred: Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi Mr Gormley: The Bull from the Sea by Mary Renault Currently Reading

Turn the page to find out who won the poetry competition and read a Christmas story that earned a Warden’s Commendation!

@TEDDIESLIBRARY

WEEK A

WEEK BEGINNING 01/12/25

If there’s one thing we love in the library it’s the power of a good story and this week Mr Clapham shared an absolutely fantastic one with us. Honey Meads in Oakthorpe wrote her story for a creative writing prep - it was sent directly to the Warden, and it’s a pleasure to be able to share it here too. Well done Honey! David Dai won the poetry competition with his ode to The Little Match Girl and we loved each of the runner up poems equally. All winner’s will receive a selection of library prizes. Well done to all who entered!

MIDWINTER DREAMS Poetry Competition

Our poetry competition saw entries from 11 out of 13 houses and from pupils in every year group! Our runners up are: Massi Brady, Sing’s Georgie Layzell-Payne, Oakthorpe Layla Crew, Avenue Caelan Macdonald, Kendall Click the picture below to read all poems entered in this years Christmas competition!

Winner David Dai, Tilly’s

Snow needles the air, a barefoot girl Hawks matches no one buys. One flare, warm stove, bread, kindness - gone. THE LITTLE GIRL’S DREAM

Second flare, Christmas tree blazing bright, Ornaments like frozen stars - gone.

Third, Grandmother's arms, soft as forgiven sins, "Take me home," the child whispers. Flame dies; body stiff in dawn's cruel light. Yet in midwinter's deepest dream, She rises, matches unneeded now, Burning eternal where cold cannot reach.

@TEDDIESLIBRARY

THE GIFT FROM THE HEART by Honey Meads Oakthorpe

‘There is a deadline though.’ My gaze swivelled over the waiting room, looking for a place to look instead of the doctor’s apologetic eyes. TV played quietly in one corner, a distraction that might keep my mind off what was happening to my mum. The seats closest to it stood empty, sandwiched between two sweating and shivering men. ‘What do you mean? How long?’ I stutter on four out of six words. The man is stood awfully close, so close I can smell the Warfarin tablets in his pocket. His spindly frame can be seen extruding from his skin; his collarbones, the large lump resting on the ledge of his chest. His ease is putting me on edge; how can he be this calm when I’m falling apart? ‘I can’t promise she’ll see the end of the month.’ Suddenly everything seemed real. The room swings and darkness threatens my peripheral vision. I feel a large stone of defeat sinking in my stomach. I force a long swallow followed by a deep breath, anchoring me back to the plastic seat. The plane flight back seems almost illegal, but much longer in Miami would cost me my condo in Manhattan. I used to long for deserts. I used to long for long horizons filled with white sand and blue, effacing skies. I used to long to stare into the sunset and forget my life entirely. But now the last thing I want to do is forget my mum. I long for her, and her warmth and her self presence. Christmas had penetrated every inch. A large arrangement of holly stood on the table. There was a single Christmas card addressed to me on the mantle shelf, and a pile of logs next to the fire. A box of Christmas crackers sat opened on the floor and a half-empty bottle of Walmart’s finest prosecco in the fridge. As we sit under the Christmas tree, I can't help but let my thoughts wander off. Grey grief comes in waves. To begin with, waves are 100 feet tall and crash over you without mercy. All you can do is wait and float and stay alive. Erika sits with her legs crossed peacefully under the living room table, playing with her dollar store Barbies that Father Christmas got for her. ‘Mama, why are you crying?’ Erika asks in her sing-songy voice. How am I supposed to tell a four-year-old girl that Grandma died? How is she going to forgive me for picking this month’s wage over my own mother’s life? Suddenly it becomes almost impossible to breathe. Her arms swarm round me and I feel her pull me closer. It warms my soul, but it’s the kind of hug that makes you want to lean against a shoulder and cry. So that’s what I do. In between darkness, I can feel heaven wrapped in Erika’s short arms. Even upon this wintery day, when the sky is grey and my heart is bare, Erika gives me a glowing sense of warmth.

WEEK A

WEEK BEGINNING 12/01/2026

Library Spotlight Springing into 2026!

Spring Term in the Library: Get Involved! Welcome back to Teddies for the Spring Term! A new year is upon us, and the Library team is looking forward to helping you spring into 2026 with a new favourite read! Alongside the usual bookish goings on, we’ve got lots of exciting things coming up in the Library this term - in particular, World Book Day on Thursday 5 March! We also love getting ideas from pupils for Library initiatives and events, this term sees collaboration with pupils for Duke of Edinburgh service as well as the Poetry Society who are getitng involved with the termly poetry competitions! If you have any ideas for collaborative projects, drop Ms Eldred a message or pop into to have a chat! th

Book of the Week The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas

BookTok’s latest obsession is an epic tale of adventure and intrigue in 19th century France. When Edmond Dantès, a sailor and recently escaped prisoner, discovers a trove of treasure, he uses his newfound wealth to reinvent himself as a Count - and swiftly sets about exacting his revenge on the men who wronged him. If you’ve been looking for a fast paced, immersive classic to kick start the year, this is the book for you!

Currently Reading

Ms Eldred: Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi Mr Gormley: Number9Dream by David Mitchell

WEEK A

WEEK BEGINNING 12/01/2026

Our selection of books guaranteed to get you out of a winter reading slump!

New Year, New Books

Katabasis by R.F Kuang

Nowhere on Earth by Nick Lake

Dark academia takes a trip to the underworld! A fiendishly clever fantasy from the author of Yellowface Excuse Me While I Ugly Cry by Joya Goffney Heartfelt rom-com about facing your fears and living your truth! Calling My Name by Liana Tamani Taja faces the pressure of family expectation and finding herself in this luminous coming-of-age story

A girl and her younger brother, hunted through the wilderness. But who ’ s after them, and why? The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea by Axie Oh Mina has been cast into the Spirit World - but it ’ s also her chance to put an end to an age old curse Fable for the End of the World by Ava Reid An assassin and the girl she is hunting form a surprising bond in this thrilling dystopian romance.

Blenheim Society: Allies at War Monday 12 6pm, Recital Room th, The Blenheim Society have invited historian Tim Bouverie to talk about his remarkable book Allies at War , the story of an improbable and incongruous coalition, divided by ideology and politics and riven with mistrust and deceit, that won the Second World War and ensured the defeat of Nazi Germany. A copy is available to borrow in the library.

Book Box Restocked The Book Box on Field side has now been fully restocked, with lots of fiction, non-fiction, graphic novels, and manga ready to be signed out! On the top shelf, we’ve highlighted some of our favourite stories from around the world, including Japanese murder mysteries, Indigenous American dystopia, Indian family sagas, and Russian classics!

@TEDDIESLIBRARY

WEEK BEGINNING 19/01/2026

Library Spotlight From Ancient Greece to Modern Art From Ancient Greece to Modern Art

The Tiger That Isn’t By Michael Blastland and Andrew Dilnot Book of the Week

Olivier Hall, Thursday 22 , 6pm nd Lyne Society Lecture: Iphigenia in Aulis Dr Giovanna di Martino Iphigenia in Aulis is one of Euripides’ most significant and enduring dramatic works, one which continues to raise questions of gender, duty, and sacrifice in the present day. Ancient Greece’s theatrical legacy is alive and well in the 21 century - we encourage you to browse the Library’s classics shelves for works by Sophocles, Aristophanes, and Aeschylus. st Sir Andrew Dilnot is an economist and broadcaster who has been the Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies and Chair of the UK Statistics Authority. The Library has lots of engaging books on the link between economics, politics, and statistics in the Roe Reading Room, including David Spiegelhalter’s The Art of Statistics and Georgina Sturge’s Bad Data. Economics Society: Sir Andrew Dilnot Olivier Hall, Tuesday 20 , 8pm th

Numbers have become the all powerful language of public argument. Too often, that power is abused and the numbers bamboozle. The trick to seeing through them is strikingly simple. It is to apply something everyone has - the lessons of their own experience. Using vivid and everyday images and ideas, this book shows how close to hand insight and understanding can be, and how we can all use what is familiar to make sense of what is baffling. This book shows how to see straight through the tricks - and how to seize the power for yourself.

WEEK B

Art Books on the Mezzanine With the Sixth Form off to the London Art Fair this Thursday, now is the perfect time to explore the treasure trove that is the Library’s Art and Art History section ! Tucked away on the mezzanine above the Roe Reading Room, you’ll find a huge selection of beautiful art books covering the entire history of art, from the ancient world and Gothic architecture to impressionism, surrealism, and contemporary art. Whether you’re studying art or just want some aesthetic inspiration, there is something to suit all tastes. We encourage everyone to browse our extensive collection (much of which was donated by former Sub Warden Malcolm Oxley), flip through the books, and enjoy the power of art!

Burns Night: 25 January th Burns Night: 25 January Each year, Burns Night takes place on 25 January to celebrate the life and legacy of Scotland’s National Bard, Robert Burns. Whether you choose to call Scotland home, or if you’re celebrating overseas, it is a time to feel connected to Scotland and enjoy its unique community spirit and warm hospitality.

My Heart ’ s in the Highlands by Robert Burns My Heart’s in the

Farewell to the Highlands, farewell to the north, The birth-place of Valour, the country of Worth; Wherever I wander, wherever I rove, The hills of the Highlands for ever I love. My heart’s in the Highlands, my heart is not here; My heart’s in the Highlands, a-chasing the deer; A-chasing the wild-deer and following the roe, My heart’s in the Highlands, wherever I go. Farewell to the mountains high-cover’d with snow; Farewell to the straths and green vallies below; Farewell to the forests and wild-hanging woods; Farewell to the torrents and loud-pouring floods.

Book a meeting with Ms Eldred to review your referencing and essay formatting . Click the links below or resources.

The Academic Research booklet. Online databases and resources. Library books on AccessIT.

@TEDDIESLIBRARY

WEEK BEGINNING 26/01/2026

Library Spotlight Our first Poetry Society Collab!

International LEGO Day Wednesday 28th January Calling all LEGO enthusiasts, future engineers and creative souls: On Wednesday this week, which happens to be International Lego Day, we are launching an on-going library LEGO project! The challenge: Build a LEGO diorama depicting either a scene from a book or a scene from school life to fit permanently in the library. Pupils and staff are warmly welcomed to take part. There is NO DEADLINE for completion, you’re welcome to take part any time from now until we run out of space - or LEGO - the limit is your imagination!

Born into a Jewish ghetto in Hungary, as a child, Elie Wiesel was sent to the Nazi concentration camps at Auschwitz and Buchenwald. This is his account of that atrocity. Describing in simple terms the tragic murder of a people from a survivor’s perspective, Night is among the most personal, intimate and poignant of all accounts of the Holocaust. It remains one of the most important works of the twentieth century. Good to know: Let us know in your email if you would prefer to remain anonymous for the Valentines competition. Send your entry to: library@stedwardsoxford.org This year, we’ve teamed up with the Poetry Society - look out for information and advice coming from them soon! Individual prizes for Sixth form, Middle School, and Shell entries Spring Term Writing Competition Valentines Poetry Click the book covers to read more about each book on the library catalogue Deadline: Sunday 8 February Who: All year groups

Holocaust Memorial Day Tuesday 27 January th

Book of the Week

Night by Elie Wiesel