We were delighted to welcome leading literacy expert Alex Quigley to Barnard Castle School this week. Working closely with our Heads of Department, Alex is continuing to shape and support our whole-school approach to literacy. This is a crucial foundation for academic success and a key driver of our broader academic ambition.
His visit came at a particularly timely moment, as this year marks the National Year of Reading. Alex’s insights are helping us refine how we develop reading, writing, and disciplinary literacy across all subject areas so that that every pupil is equipped to thrive academically.
By embedding literacy skills within every subject, we are making sure that students not only excel in English but also communicate clearly and confidently in Maths, Science, Humanities, and beyond.
From his talks to staff and workshops with teachers, Alex emphasised that literacy is all about unlocking curiosity and lifelong learning. By empowering pupils with strong literacy skills, we give them the tools to succeed both in school and beyond, preparing them to meet challenges with confidence.
We are incredibly grateful to Alex for his ongoing partnership and expertise. His guidance is helping shape a new era of literacy development at Barney that ensures pupils are equipped to think critically, express themselves clearly, and take full advantage of the opportunities ahead.
